Deming, NM- The Western New Mexico University Deming Branch held a majors fair on Wednesday February 11th, inviting people from Western, as well as Deming High School and the Deming Community to stop by and see what the University has to offer.
“The goal of the majors fair is to give Deming High School students, our students and community members a chance to find out what they’re interested in.” stated Deming Branch Director, Ken Leupold.
Tanya Rivers, a facility member from the Math and Computer Science Department was enthusiastic about the event. “We from Silver are bringing our programs to Deming graduates and other potential students so they can see the Deming Branch as a bridge between the high school and the main campus.” There was a very large turnout for Deming High School students including not only members of this years senior class but also many Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors interested in taking dual-credit courses with the University.
Andrea Sandoval and Christian Escalante are both students that are taking advantage of the dual credit system set up at Western. Sandoval is a high school senior graduating this coming May and is currently taking Westerns CNA class for dual-credit and hopes to pursue a career in nursing. Escalante is a Junior at Deming High with an interest in Physical Education and Athletics. “I’m kinda nervous because I’m not sure what to expect.” Escalante said, sharing a feeling many of the high school students had entering the fair. “But everyone I’ve talked to has been very helpful.”
Analisa Ortiz was a high school freshman visiting the event trying to get a head-start on college and also expressing interest in dual-credit. She found talking to the staff and professors at the Majors fair helpful for her as well. “After coming here, I have a better idea of everything,” Ortiz said.
By the end of the fair, an estimated one hundred visitors had come by and talked to the various departments as well as collecting numerous pamphlets, fliers and various goodies handed out at the assorted tables. “I was very pleased with the turnout.” Dr. Andy Hernandez said. Aside from being part of the Humanities department at Western, Dr. Hernandez was also wrapping up a term serving on the Deming school board and went on to say he thought the fair had been a success.
Andrea Sandoval looked back on the Majors Fair stating, “It was really helpful and the professors were really friendly.” Sandoval intends to enroll full time at Western next fall.
