Around 20 displays from University departments filled the inside of the Roundhouse on Thursday.
Representatives from dozens of UNM departments spent the day showcasing programs and services for the third annual UNM Day at the Legislature.
"It went very well," said Tamara Williams, marketing representative for the School of Engineering.
She said the School of Engineering is requesting $21 million from the Legislature for a new building. Pamphlets she passed out included a drawing plan of the proposed center.
Work-study student Chriselle Heredia said she was there to supply exhibit attendees with general information on UNM's El Centro de la Raza.
She passed out pins, stickers and promotional pamphlets for the center.
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"This is my second time at the event," Heredia said. "I think it's good to be a proactive member of the student body."
Kathleen Matta, a registered nurse, said she thinks more exposure is good for the University.
Matta represented UNM's College of Nursing by manning its display table for the day. New programs include Web-based courses and nursing doctorate programs, she said.
"The College of Nursing exhibit was really good," said Belen high school senior Katie Nelson. "The interactive display was really interesting."
Matta said most students enjoyed seeing Sam the dummy, whose heartbeat could be heard in the hallways of the Roundhouse. Sam also has a pulse that attendees could feel for, she said.
Nelson said the nursing display caused her to think more seriously about her interest in pursuing a career in the nursing field.
UNM President Louis Caldera said he was impressed by the active involvement from students at the state Capitol.
"I'm pleased with the exposure," he said.
Rayo McCollough, a representative of the New Mexico Natural Heritage Program, said he had many other things in the office that needed his attention, but gaining visibility for the Biology Department was worth it.
"You never really know who you're talking to or whether they're affected by the information," he said.
He said his department's position in the corner limited the display's exposure, but he used the experience as a way to make improvements for next time. The group will bring more visual displays next year, McCollough said.
Nelson said she enjoyed all of the exhibits. Even more enjoyable were the free items, she said.
"I like how UNM wants you to remember the school by giving out pens and pencils," she said. "I entered their drawing to win a UNM T-shirt, too."
Attendees were entertained in between exhibits by local musicians, including a mariachi band.
On the floor of the Legislature, football head coach Rocky Long and Lobo Louie were recognized.
