Not only will Leonardo Gonzalez be graduating from El Paso Community College (EPCC) and Burges Early College High School, but being 1st in his class, he will also have a prestigious scholarship to use in furthering his education.
“I wanted to do the Early College Program as it would provide a more rigorous learning experience with higher expectations of my work. I also chose this program, as I would be able to earn 2 years’ worth of college while also getting my high school diploma.” Leonardo said.
Gonzalez has earned the University of Texas at El Paso’s (UTEP) Presidential Scholarship. This scholarship is offered to all students who finished first in their class at public high schools in Region 19.
This scholarship will provide $8,000 per year for a maximum of four years.
Leo will be attending UTEP after graduation to continue studying what used to be just a hobby, music.
“I will now be majoring in Music, with a concentration in Music Education at UTEP.” Gonzalez said. “Since 5th grade, I have been playing the cello. The cello has proved to be a great stress reliever of mine. While it also involves some studying, it is a true enjoyment.”
By having graduated from an Early College and obtaining a scholarship at UTEP, Leonardo Gonzalez will save time and money and be closer to achieving his professional goals, while studying what he is passionate about.
In the State of Texas, EPCC has partnered with Canutillo ISD, Clint ISD, El Paso ISD, Fabens ISD, Socorro ISD and Ysleta ISD to provide fifteen ECHS and P-TECHS. Currently serving over 3,000 students through this exciting and innovative educational experience.
College officials add that, since 2006, over 3,000 students have earned a degree from EPCC before graduating from high school.
The EPCC Spring 2021 Virtual Commencement Ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 22, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. premiering on EPCC.edu and EPCC-TV Channel 13.2 and Spectrum Cable Channel 1301.
