In what can only be described as an impressive feat of academic prowess, David Fierro, a mere 16 years of age, has secured for himself an Associate of Science in Physics. His journey, which culminated in May of this year, took place at El Paso Community College (EPCC) and straddled his time at Radford High School thanks to an innovative Early Admissions/Dual Credit Program. As reported by EPCC, the program empowered David to tackle college courses during his high school years, delving deeply into subjects for which he harbors a deep passion: physics and math. It's not just about loading up on any classes; David filled his academic plate with selections that resonated with his curiosity, capped by impressive accolades.
David, taking classes at EPCC, jumped into college-level studies as a freshman and didn't let up, tackling courses through successive summers. "I heard about the program from people I knew in dual credit," David said, as per EPCC. "Radford supported me from the start, and I just kept going, taking classes I loved, like physics and math. Eventually, I had enough credits to graduate with honors." His high school support system, coupled with college-level demands, saw him juggling an array of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, high school subjects, and advanced topics like Calculus III and Differential Equations.
When asked about his favorite course, David identified Differential Equations, taught by EPCC's own Professor Adrian Delgado. He described the class as a cornerstone for his love of physics, a chance to understand the world's intrinsic rate of change. "Professor Delgado made it very understandable and fun," David added in the interview with EPCC. Demonstrating a maturity beyond his years, David also remarked on the significance of his relationship with Oscar Velasquez, EPCC's Districtwide Counselor Coordinator, who has been a pillar of guidance throughout his academic escapade. "Mr. Luna is a very special student," Velasquez noted, misnaming Fierro but rightly identifying the uniqueness of his achievement at EPCC.
Armed with his associate degree, David is not content to rest on his laurels; he looks forward to pursuing further academic conquests, aiming for a bachelor's degree with an expedited timeline due to his early accomplishments. He hopes to have a Ph.D. in physics to his name in the future. "I know this is just the beginning, but finishing my associate's now means I can complete my bachelor's faster and move on to a Ph.D. in physics," he told EPCC. This coming fall finds David stepping into junior-level physics and math courses at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), while he simultaneously wraps up his secondary education. By high school graduation, David should find himself approaching the final stretch of his bachelor's program, a testament to his drive and the benefits of educational structures that support forward-thinking students.
