Another fall semester at the University of Texas at El Paso means another first day of classes as thousands of students flock to campus.
After announcing another record class of incoming freshmen and surpassing 27,000 in total student enrollment
, UTEP celebrated its first day of classes for fall 2026 on Monday, Aug. 24. The academic year kicked off with greetings from university departments and colorful signage to boot.
"I've been working as an intern at UTEP for the past two years and I just wanted to learn as much as I can before I graduate and enter the job market," said senior Estefania De La Torre, a social media and communications intern at UTEP's Office of Institutional Advancement.
The return to classes also kicks off 23 straight days
of student-driven events and celebrations aimed at creating a healthy campus culture.
“Miner Welcome is about more than a series of events — it’s about fostering meaningful connections among students and helping them feel at home at UTEP," said Catie McCorry-Andalis, vice president for Student Affairs. "When students experience a true sense of belonging, they are more likely to succeed both academically and personally.”
As part of the preparations for students to head back to class, campus improvement projects arealready underway.
To better assist new and returning students, student services staff will also have special hours to discuss undergraduate admissions, financial aid and scholarships, registration and records, academic advising center and student business services.
Kristian Jaime is the Top Story Reporter for the El Paso Times and is reachable at Kjaime@elpasotimes.com.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Fall classes see UTEP welcome back thousands of students
