For many international students, their life consists of crossing the border every day to go to school, work and even clinics which is the case of Nancy Moriel, an El Paso Community College Surgical Technology student.
Spending hours at the international bridge, cultural and language barriers, and not spending as much time as she would want with her loved ones, are some other obstacles Nancy had to face.
Nancy Moriel
“One of my most recent obstacles was when the pandemic started.
Due to the restrictions on the borders, it was very difficult and intriguing to see how the laws changed at the border” Moriel said.
“As an international student you have to have everything in order, because laws can also change our visa status from one moment to another and that involves more stress and concern.”
The EPCC International Students Office helps international students to stay in compliance with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations while attending EPCC.
“Nancy developed a strong sense of commitment and determination to complete her degree.”
Dr. Dora Perez, EPCC Admissions Registration Assistant said. “EPCC listened to and recognized the barriers Nancy encountered and worked to reduce and remove them so she would have a successful path.”
EPCC has a dedicated staff at each campus serving the needs of the international student from the admission application process through transfer or graduation.
Nancy is graduating with an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology.
Her plans are to continue in the medical profession to provide help to the community of El Paso, continue with her studies and be able to finish a bachelor’s and later a master's degree.
The EPCC Spring 2021 Virtual Commencement Ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. premiering on www.epcc.edu and EPCC-TV Channel 13.2 and Spectrum Cable Channel 1301.