EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Students in the Borderland had a chance to show off their art portfolios to schools around the country and even in Europe.
High School and college students had the chance to present their work in front of art schools from New York, California, Texas, New Mexico and even Scotland as part of the Sun City Portfolio Day.
Candace Printz, the assistant director of fine arts for the Socorro Independent School District, explained that the event has grown since its inception, expanding from three universities and 30 students to 28 universities and about 520 students.
Printz explained that during the event, students have the opportunity to present their artwork to college representatives, who provide critiques and discuss admissions and scholarships.
“Some of the kids will get scholarships on site,” Printz said, noting that in 2024, students received offers for free tuition, housing, and food in Boston.
“If they see something in the kid and their artwork– that is really promising– they’re like, ‘We want you,'” Printz added.
Vanessa Vazquez of Parkland High School shows her pencil and chalk artwork on Monday.{ }Credit: EPPC
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The event is particularly beneficial for students in isolated areas who find it hard to go to Austin or San Antonio, allowing them to connect with multiple schools at once in El Paso.
Students get to bring a portfolio of up to five pieces of artwork– the ones they’re most proud of– for one-on-one sessions with college representatives.
“One thing [college reps] did have to say about the El Paso kids is that they feel like it’s this untapped area and they had no idea it was just so talented and they keep ragging about how respectful the kids are, Printz said.
The event was held at the Socorro Independent School District Student Activities Complex, SAC II Fine Arts Building, 1300 Joe Battle Blvd.
For more on EPCC art and Sun City Portfolio Day, please visit: https://www.epcc.edu/Events/SunCityPortfolioDay.
Students present their artworks to college representatives during the 2025 Sun City Portfolio Day. Credit: KFOX14/CBS4
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