Rebecca Reyes first set foot on campus Tuesday.
"It was my first time ever on a college campus, and everyone was really nice and really helpful," Reyes said.
UNM's application fee was waived for students who brought completed admission applications and a copy of their official transcript to American Indian Student Day.
"I brought all of the things I needed," she said. "It's a really good chance not to have to pay the admission fee."
She said all her financial aid questions were answered, and UNM students made visiting American-Indian students feel comfortable on campus.
Pam Agoyo, director of American Indian Student Services, said the value of higher education should be emphasized for Native students.
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About 700 juniors and seniors came from 40 high schools across the state. Their day began with an information fair and a welcoming address by President Louis Caldera.
Agoyo said the event is important in order to showcase the programs available to all students, adding there are special initiatives for Native students at UNM. Attendees participated in workshop sessions and took a tour of the UNM campus after having the chance to socialize at lunch.
High school junior Michael Barrett said he received a lot of valuable help from the UNM staff about planning for college.
"There were a lot of workshops," he said. "They gave us a really good idea about the different programs and the options we'll have when we make plans for college."
Barrett said he also learned about the support programs available to him.
"There are a lot more options for Native students than I have ever heard about before," he said. "I'm glad I came and would tell other students to take part in it next time."
Agoyo said the students who aren't excited about getting lectured to responded positively to the interactive events.
About 70 Native UNM students volunteered to help out with the event.
"From blowing up balloons to participating in the actual sessions - they were a big part," Agoyo said.
Reyes said she enjoyed her time on campus because of the friendly staff and student volunteers, who made the experience memorable.
Belen resident Dena Dawson said the day at UNM changed her mind about where she will spend her college years.
"I thought I'd just stay home or get an apartment closer to Albuquerque," she said. "But the campus living program kind of made me think I'd like to live in a dorm."
Dawson said she likes the idea of waking up on campus and heading straight to class.
"It would be so much more convenient, and I wouldn't have to spend an hour traveling to and from school," she said.
The event was sponsored by UNM's Recruitment Services and American Indian Student Services.
