Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector
Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector
Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector
SalmaPaola Baca

SalmaPaola Baca, Staff Photographer

SalmaPaola Baca is a staff photographer at The Prospector. She is a senior majoring in engineering innovation and leadership with a concentration in civil engineering, minor in structural engineering, and an emphasis in computer science. After graduating, she wants to pursue a master’s degree in architecture while simultaneously working on her photography.

All content by SalmaPaola Baca
A UTEP graduate holds up a custom cap honoring loved ones, highlighting the tradition of personalized messages at graduation.

[Photo] Heart on the head, grad caps tell a story

Jesie Garcia, Staff Reporter • May 17, 2025

A UTEP graduate holds up a custom cap honoring loved ones, highlighting the tradition of personalized messages at graduation.

The rear side of the Lhakhang Temple showcases traditional Bhutanese design with its battered walls and colorful woodwork.

How Bhutanese architecture shapes UTEP’s identity

SalmaPaola Baca, Staff Photographer • May 17, 2025
UTEP’s campus stands alone with its century-old Bhutanese architecture. The university’s unique design blends tradition, identity, and desert landscape into a living cultural landmark from its earliest buildings to the Lhakhang temple.
Read Story
Engineered to capture moments

Engineered to capture moments

SalmaPaola Baca, Staff Photographer • May 15, 2025
After three years of balancing engineering and photography at The Prospector, I found more than just experience behind the lens. I found a community, a purpose and a voice I never expected to discover.
Read Story
The offensive and defensive lines clash as the blue and orange teams battle during UTEP's 2025 Spring Game.

[Photo] UTEP football shows out in Spring Game

Cameron Mason, Contributor/Writer • May 2, 2025

A blue team running back races toward the sideline while defenders close in during UTEP's 2025 Spring Game.

Alexa Carranco, a Chicano studies major from the College of Liberal Arts, is recognized as a Top Ten Senior at UTEP for her academic excellence and leadership.

[Photo] UTEP’s Top 10 Seniors and their undying ambition

Jesie Garcia, Staff Reporter • April 30, 2025

Alexa Carranco, a Chicano studies major from the College of Liberal Arts, is recognized as a Top Ten Senior at UTEP for her academic excellence and leadership.

A traditional mask dancer figure, known as a cham performer, captures Bhutanese celebrations’ sacred and festive spirit.

[Photo] From the Himalayas to the high desert Bhutan’s presence at UTEP

Jazmine I Gracia, Contributor/Writer • April 30, 2025

Students and visitors explore the Lhakhang’s vivid murals and architecture, drawing connections between Bhutanese heritage and UTEP’s identity.

Medina coined the term “estrellito” in 2017 to define his reimagined version of the zoot suit, named after the iconic star on the mountain that overlooks El Paso.

[Photo] Redefining pachuco, introducing estrellito

Alyda Muela, Arts & Culture Editor • April 21, 2025

With rings passed down through the family and collected over time, Medina uses fashion as storytelling.

Amaris Juarez peers through layers of thrifted clothes, portraying the challenge of finding authenticity in thrift stores in the age of fast fashion.

[Photo] Thrift store culture in the midst of fast fashion

Jazmine I Gracia, Contributor/Writer • April 16, 2025

Amaris Juarez peers through layers of thrifted clothes, portraying the challenge of finding authenticity in thrift stores in the age of fast fashion.

Located at 7118 N. Mesa Street, El Paso, Texas 79912, Good Girl Romance is a place where readers can feel safe to explore the romance genre.

[Photo] Good Girl Romance; a sanctuary for love, literature and connection in El Paso

Jazmine I Gracia, Contributor/Writer • April 16, 2025

The Plaza Hotel, formerly the Hilton Hotel, remains a key part of Downtown El Paso’s historic architecture.

The architectural identity of El Paso

SalmaPaola Baca, Staff Photographer • April 14, 2025
El Paso's downtown city line reflects a rich architectural legacy shaped by Henry Trost. As historic buildings face neglect or demolition, local architects and residents push to preserve the city's identity through its fading landmarks.
Read Story
A player leaps to smash the ball during a mixed doubles match at El Paso’s first divisional pickleball tournament.

[Photo] Sun Bowl Association hosts El Paso’s first divisional pickleball tournament

Joseph Ezekiel Montero, Staff Reporter • April 14, 2025

A player leaps to smash the ball during a mixed doubles match at El Paso’s first divisional pickleball tournament.

Members of the UTEP Cheer team practice stunts during a cheerleading session, training year-round.

[Photo] Spirit and thrill: UTEP Cheer’s role in bringing the Miners to victory

Leah Austin, Staff Reporter • April 7, 2025

Members of the UTEP Cheer team practice stunts during a cheerleading session, training year-round.

Are internships really necessary in college?

Are internships really necessary in college?

SalmaPaola Baca, Staff Photographer • April 7, 2025
Internships have become an unofficial requirement for success in today’s job market. At the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), students are encouraged, if not pressured, to complete one before graduation. While internships can provide career advantages, they are not always accessible, effective or necessary for every major.
Read Story
The pressure to sound academically competent weighs heavily on students like Robert Delgadillo, who wrestle with imposter syndrome and the challenge of fitting into higher education’s linguistic norms.

[Photo] To speak your intelligence or forever hold your peace

Jazmine I Gracia, Contributor/Writer • April 2, 2025

Robert Delgadillo, a graduate student and high school teacher, reflects on the transition from undergraduate to graduate studies and the evolving expectations of academic discourse.

UTEP stands as one of the largest Hispanic-Serving Institutions in the U.S., dedicated to student success and inclusivity.

[Photo] History of UTEP as a leading Hispanic-serving institution

Leah Austin, Staff Reporter • April 2, 2025

UTEP stands as one of the largest Hispanic-Serving Institutions in the U.S., dedicated to student success and inclusivity.

Victor Sanchez is a master’s student in business administration currently serving as a teaching assistant in political science.

[Photo] Advice to student from educators who once walked the UTEP campus

Joseph Ezekiel Montero, Staff Reporter • April 2, 2025

Victor Sanchez is a master’s student in business administration currently serving as a teaching assistant in political science.

Barista Rebecca Ruiz prepares a seasonal drink using flavored syrup at Cafecito.

[Photo] Cafecito en Socorro: Cafecito, Bodega Loya, and their contribution to sweet drinks and local artists

Jesie Garcia, Staff Reporter • March 31, 2025

Marty Loya and Rebecca Ruiz serve customers at Cafecito’s handcrafted coffee bar, located in a repurposed family home that now supports local artists and vendors.

Gabe Padilla infuses each plate with the history, flavors, and traditions of the Piro people.

[Photo] Cafecito en Socorro: Owners of Café Piro pass on the legacy of the Piro tribe through food and culture

Jesie Garcia, Staff Reporter • March 19, 2025

The warm and inviting interior of Café Piro reflects the owners' appreciation for indigenous culture, local art and a cozy atmosphere.

Claudia Rivers, a dedicated archivist, continues her mission to document and preserve the rich history of the borderland for future generations.

[Photo] Celebrating women across the borderland

Avery Escamilla-Wendell, Editor-in-Chief • March 5, 2025

Claudia Rivers, a dedicated archivist, continues her mission to document and preserve the rich history of the borderland for future generations.

Federal immigration agents have expanded patrols near the U.S.-Mexico border, including areas surrounding UTEP.

[Photo] UTEP outlines response to potential ICE raids on campus

Vianah Vasquez, Contributor/Writer • March 5, 2025

Federal immigration agents have expanded patrols near the U.S.-Mexico border, including areas surrounding UTEP.

A performer reaches out as her fellow dancers hold her back in a scene from "Monomyth", illustrating the struggle between resistance and perseverance.

[Photo] ‘Monomyth’ using common adversity to create an impactful performance

Jesie Garcia, Staff Reporter • February 26, 2025

A performer reaches out as her fellow dancers hold her back in a scene from "Monomyth", illustrating the struggle between resistance and perseverance.

Senior forward Derick Hamilton attempts to dunk the ball. Hamilton shot a total of 8 points against FIU.

[Photo] UTEP swats away FIU Panthers for the Win

H. Catching Marginot, Contributor/Writer • February 21, 2025

Senior forward Derick Hamilton attempts to dunk the ball. Hamilton shot a total of 8 points against FIU.

The Women’s Volunteer organization gathered on Feb. 8 at Madeline Park to inspire kindness and community involvement. Founded by Karmen Corona, the organization creates a safe space for women and encourages them to give back through volunteer efforts and acts of kindness.

[Photo] Paying kindness forward through the Women’s Volunteer Organization

Jesie Garcia, Staff Reporter • February 19, 2025

An instructor leads participants in a pilates class during the Women’s Volunteer Organization event on Feb. 8.

UTEP students prepare for this year's Valentine's day.

Tradition of asking, ‘Will you be my Valentine?’

SalmaPaola Baca, Staff Photographer • February 13, 2025
Should couples still ask, “Will you be my Valentine?” Absolutely. This small yet meaningful tradition keeps romance alive, strengthens bonds and reminds partners that love is a choice worth celebrating.
Read Story
A demonstrator raises a sign reading "Migration is not illegal" during a Jan. 29 protest.

[Photo] El Paso community comes together in wake of unprecedented political climate

Jesie Garcia, Staff Reporter • February 10, 2025

On Jan. 29, El Pasoans gathered to protest in support of immigration rights.

Attendees proudly display their new Dropshot Social merchandise while enjoying a night of pickleball.

[Photo] America’s newest popular sport in the borderland: Dropshot Social

Joseph Ezekiel Montero, Staff Reporter • February 6, 2025

Attendees proudly display their new Dropshot Social merchandise while enjoying a night of pickleball.

Kaleigh stands outside her studio, surrounded by bold and colorful pieces that showcase her unique style.

[Photo] Venture through the technical dreamscapes of Ashton Kaleigh

Evelyn Palma, Web & Copy Editor • January 24, 2025

Ashton Kaleigh proudly holds one of her symbolic and vibrant artworks in her studio.

Pedestrian walks in downtown El Paso where small businesses are struggling to keep up with higher rents.

[Photo] Unveiling gentrification in the Sun City

Leah Austin, Staff Reporter • January 24, 2025

Downtown El Paso is changing fast as gentrification brings new buildings and businesses.

Hotel Delirium is located at 6400 Airport Rd Building B.

[Photo] El Paso’s escape from life into a new reality, Hotel Delirium

Joseph Ezekiel Montero, Staff Reporter • January 22, 2025

Intricate designs and puzzles at Hotel Delirium challenge visitors' creativity and teamwork.

According to the survey, which gathered responses from 1,782 students, 89% of students live off campus.

[Photo] SGA survey highlights ongoing frustrations over parking

Ximena Cordero, Staff Reporter • December 5, 2024

According to the survey, which gathered responses from 1,782 students, 89% of students live off campus.

Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

UTEP men’s basketball stuns UCSB Gauchos

SalmaPaola Baca, Photo Editor • November 25, 2024
Editor’s note: This recap is not the most recent game for UTEP men’s basketball.
Read Story
Floral artist Natalie Beagle opened the “No Me Olvides” exhibition Nov. 15 and 16. The display transformed a gallery into a whimsical indoor garden.

[Photo] No Me Olvides presents The Indoor Garden, bringing a vibrant floral escape to the borderland

Ximena Cordero, Staff Reporter • November 20, 2024

Participants begin the Miner Dash 3k Walk at Centennial Plaza.

[Photo] 14th Annual Miner Dash helps kick off Homecoming Week

Catching Marginot, Contributor/Writer • November 11, 2024

Participants of all ages spring into action as the Miner Dash begins, led by Paydirt Pete.

Team Pete continues to honor this legacy by sharing the spirit of UTEP.

[Photo] Discover the team that brings UTEP’s beloved mascot to life and ignites school spirit

Ximena Cordero, Staff Reporter • November 8, 2024

Team Pete continues to honor this legacy by sharing the spirit of UTEP.

Junior guard Heaven Samayoa-Mathis dribbles against Tarleton's defender.

[Photo] UTEP beats Tarleton to start season

Sebastian Perez-Navarro, Staff Reporter • November 7, 2024

Senior guard Delma Zita drives the ball toward the basket to set up a play.

Students wrap around the UTEP Student Union Building to vote for the 2024 General Election

[Photo] LIVE UPDATES: 2024 general election coverage

The Prospector Staff • November 5, 2024

Students wrap around the UTEP Student Union Building to vote for the 2024 General Election

Viewers admire Tom Lea's The Turning Point, captivated by its portrayal of the Texas Western Miners' comeback against the University of Utah.

[Photo] Tom Lea Immortalizes UTEP history, told by Billy Stevens

Sebastian Perez-Navarro, Staff Reporter • November 4, 2024

Billy Stevens shares photographs with the audience, offering a glimpse into the historic Texas Western Miners' comeback victory over Utah.

  1. Pages:
  2. 1
  3. 2
  4. 3
Menu
Activate Search
Home
SalmaPaola Baca