Arizona universities participated in an event Friday to help high school students in neighboring Sonora, Mexico, learn about educational opportunities north of the border.
Representatives from the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University visited the state capital of Hermosillo Friday to meet with high school students. Schools from New Mexico and other international education organizations also participated in the event.
The recruiters handed out information packets and application materials and answered students’ questions about enrollment, language requirements and scholarships.
“It’s just really important for us to actually be here in person and actually give out that information to students," said Humberto Fierro Laredo, an international recruiter with international admissions at the University of Arizona.
Fierro said international students are an important part of the university system, and one they are looking to grow. But the admissions process can be challenging for students. Connecting with them early in the process helps.
Kristin Allen, program manager with Strategic Latin American Initiatives at Northern Arizona University, said many students also don't realize that an education in Arizona is possible for them.
“At NAU we are trying to spread the word more about what the academic offering is. We have excellent programs that are very reachable for students from Sonora," she said.
The universities offer scholarships for international students, she said, and some students in Sonora can quality for in-state tuition as well.
Fierro added that while Arizona universities have a natural tie to Sonora, they also reach out to students across Mexico and beyond.
