Aurora College Fair Links Students to Over 50 College, Trade and Military Paths

At the second‑annual Aurora Public Schools (APS) College Fair held in the exhibit hall of the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, more than 50 colleges, trade schools and military representatives met with 10th‑ through 12th‑grade students.

Ramses Zamora, a senior at Aurora Central High School, said the fair showed him how to pursue online classes while serving in the military. > “Especially for me, going into active duty when I ship out next June, they’ve given me many options for online classes to pursue that are eligible and accepted by the military,” Zamora said.

Junior Isabella Rocha of Hinkley High School compared a recent campus visit to Colorado State University with resources offered by other schools, while Bridney Hernandez of Gateway High School explored a pre‑medical track that could lead to dermatology work as an esthetician.

APS Superintendent Michael Giles, Jr. and Colorado Mesa University Senior Vice President Dr. Roberto Montoya signed a memorandum of understanding guaranteeing admission for APS seniors with a 3.0 + GPA and scholarship eligibility for juniors with a 3.2 + GPA. The agreement adds Colorado Mesa to the six schools—CSU Pueblo, Metropolitan State University of Denver, University of Northern Colorado, CU Denver, Community College of Aurora, and now Colorado Mesa University—with direct APS admission pathways.

Jackie Coppola, director of College and Career Success for APS, emphasized that the event’s goal is to give every student clear information to choose their own future.

What this means for residents Aurora families now have a clearer view of local higher‑education options, including guaranteed‑admission pathways and scholarship criteria, helping students plan for college, trade programs or military service.

What’s next The FAFSA opens for Colorado’s 2026 Free Application Days from October 20 through October 22, giving students a timely chance to apply for federal aid.