college students

The proposed state budget includes $20 million over the next three years for efforts to keep college students enrolled. Some of that money could be used to address high rates of housing and food insecurity among students in New Mexico, which far surpass national averages.

New Mexico has seen an elevated graduation rate from 2014 to 2022, with about 76% of students getting their diplomas. But even as things have improved, the state still ranks among the lowest in the nation. The New Mexico Higher Education Department recently held the GEAR UP West conference and to help bring new ideas for increasing college and career readiness.

A new study on the basic needs of New Mexico college students shows that more than half struggle with food and housing insecurity.

The University of New Mexico has less than 3% African American students. Within that community, there are even fewer who also identify as queer. A new student organization aims to create a space for both of these communities.

Africana Studies is the newest department at the University of New Mexico. It was a program at UNM for 51 years which was able to grant Bachelor's degrees, but in 2022 became a department and can now grant Masters degrees as well. KUNM spoke with Kirsten Pai Buick, chair of the department, about her goals and achievements.

College is challenging on many levels, but for students in a small racial minority there can be even more hurdles adjusting to a new place. A number of experts say universities should help these students with psychological supports and programs that remind them they’re not alone. That’s the idea behind Black Minds Matter, a first-year experience course at the University of New Mexico.

Most students enrolled half-time or more in college typically aren't eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), sometimes known as…