A welcoming hand has joined the nest. Easing the daunting, continuous questions, college and career counselor Cory Gropp helps guide students when making decisions concerning the future.

Gropp came to Canyon High after working as assistant director of admissions at Angelo State University. Gropp was head varsity basketball coach at Montezuma Cortez High School in Cortez, Colorado after graduating from West Texas A&M University with a degree in education. He then moved to Texas and worked as director of admissions for Texas State Technical College. Eventually, he moved to Waco, his hometown, where he worked as college and career counselor for Waco High School for three years.

“When I worked at Angelo State I did not like it because it took me away from working with students,” Gropp said. “I knew I wanted to get back into being a career counselor. I lived in Canyon when I was an undergraduate at WT, so when I saw the job opening, I got really excited and was lucky enough to get the job.”

Gropp said becoming an Eagle was a big change.

“The major difference I have seen at Canyon High is the pride students have,” Gropp said. “During the first pep rally I was in awe. I have never seen a student body so loud and proud of their school. I am excited to work with these students. This is my dream job, and I am so excited to be a part of this school and community.”

Gropp said he is passionate about helping students follow their career plans and working with students in ways that best fit their individual needs.

“The process of helping a student who comes in my office is getting to know them first,” Gropp said. “After that we talk about what they want to do for a career after college, and then I try to match up degrees that will get them to that career.  If not college, we talk about the military, or even technical trades.  You guys are our future, and I can tell from the students here, our future is in good hands.” 

Each senior will meet with Gropp twice during the school year, while juniors will meet with Gropp once before the year is over. 

“I worked in higher education admissions for over five years,” Gropp said. “I know what colleges look for, and I know how to help students prepare for college. Meeting with the seniors and juniors will benefit them greatly.”

Students without a career plan can schedule a meeting with Gropp by emailing him at [email protected]. 

“One of my favorite parts of being a counselor is having students come talk to me,” Gropp said. “I want to make sure all the seniors, and all students in general have a plan for after graduation. Although it is only September, helping them achieve their goals and executing that plan is my main priority.”