by Lisa Adams
Daily Lobo
About 300 African-American high school students from across New Mexico visited the campus Thursday to see what UNM is all about.
Scott Carreathers, director of African American Student Services, said African-American Student Day is organized to expose students to post-secondary education and the University. The event has been held annually since 1980.
"We keep registration records from the event, and we do get a lot of African-American students that come to UNM," he said.
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There are 683 African-Americans enrolled at main campus this fall.
Joyce Pollard, a counselor from Clovis High School, said they left at 4 a.m. to attend the event.
"This gives the students a chance to see a large university," she said.
Students were divided into groups of juniors and seniors, and they were given tours of the campus. They also received information at the SUB on the University's application process, financial aid and degree programs.
Jasmine Tucker, a student at Highland High School, said she liked visiting UNM.
"I really like the campus tour," she said. "It was really fun."
UNM student William Burn was leaving the SUB as a group of students were returning from their campus tour. He found it encouraging to see diversity on campus.
"I think the Southwest is a good place to go to school because of the diversity, but I think it would be better if there were more black people on campus," he said.
Al McCoin, a Highland High School counselor, said he was excited to visit UNM. He said he was happy UNM provided the opportunity for their students.
"The students love it," McCoin said. "Each one of us got them pumped up at their home schools."
Kendra Coveal, a student from Sandia High School, found the information helpful and enjoyed the campus tour.
"They're covering some good things," Coveal said. "It makes you want to look deeper into college."
Keya Davis, a student at Highland High School, said the event made her consider coming to UNM.
"It's pretty fun," Davis said. "I think I would come here if I don't go to Miami."
The event was successful, said Nikiyah Gill, president of Black Student Union.
"I'm having a good time," Gill said. "It's been stress-free this year."
Gill said she was grateful to all the UNM students who volunteered and helped out with the event.
"This is my third time participating in this event, and the turnout of student volunteers made this possible," Gill said.
UNM freshman Dustin Smithson noticed the groups at the SUB and was glad the students have the chance to visit the campus.
"It gives them the opportunity to see a culturally diverse university in progress," Smithson said.
