"Upward Bound is an extremely important program not only for students, but also for teachers and parents.  To us students, it is important because it provides us the help to be able to get to postsecondary education.  Having been part of the Upward Bound program for close to a year, I can say that it is the perfect program for those who want to continue their education after High School,  Not only do they provide help for subjects that we might struggle with in High School, they also provide help for those who need to find good ways to enter the workforce.  Upward Bound has also provided many opportunities to visit and tour different colleges throughout our state.  A huge skill that I personally give credit to Upward Bound for helping me improve is my public speaking skill.  I think that was actually one of my biggest problems, but with Upward Bound, the problem was solved and speaking in front of large audiences is much easier for me now.  This program has personally been a huge help in the past year and I look forward to attending and working with this program for my next few years in High School."

-Emanuel Sanchez (ENMU-Roswell UB)

"As a veteran of the U.S. Army and New Mexico Army National Guard and a devoted mother to three teenagers, I have navigated a path from homelessness to academic and professional success—a journey made possible by the unwavering support of TRIO programs.  Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that education has been my lifeline. TRIO programs provided not only academic support but also a network of encouragement and resources that transformed my life.  TRIO helped me absorb knowledge, discard doubt, and shape my own path."

-Gareth Ripol, Alumni (UNM Veteran's Upward Bound)

"Without TRIO, my life would be more complex.  I wouldn't be ready for the outside world.  My community wouldn't be as united.  We learn how to work together."

-Nayeli Canales (Northern New Mexico College UB)

"I would say TRIO has changed my life greatly.  Without TRIO, I don't know if I would have passed this semester.  I might have not passed high school either.  TRIO has guided me toward a path that makes graduating a lot more realistic.  TRIO has also helped me grow as a person.  For many years I have aimed for the bare minimum and when I figured out bare minimum was not going to work, TRIO was committed to helping me find what works.  I appreciate everything TRIO has done for me."

- Ramon Castillo-Salazar, Alumni (NMSU UB - Hatch, NMSU SSS)

"When I faced some tough family situations it was so hard to focus, but my (TRIO) program provided me with emotional support and has made me feel loved and supported.  TRIO has made such a big difference in how I approach school and my future.  Without TRIO, life would be overwhelming.  I wouldn't have any help or support when I need it, especially with homework or if I need someone to talk to.  Without my mentors or friends I met though TRIO, I'd feel less support and nervous about what's to come next."

-Kianna Moreland (Northern New Mexico College UB)

" I am sincerely grateful to the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program for providing me with a clear roadmap on how to apply to and excel in a graduate degree program.  The McNair Scholars Program is unique in that it provides its scholars with not merely the tools and skills to succeed, but also with a solid strategy in how to do so. Having the knowledge in how to take action for one’s goals is often not taught in the typical classroom, but it can make all the difference in achieving success."

- UNM McNair Scholar

"Through NMSU TRIO Upward Bound I have learned so much and I can confidently say that if it wasn’t for this program I wouldn’t be in the National Honors Society, or receive Academic awards or have the job I have now working as an Accounting Clerk at Hilton. Through my personal life this program has helped me believe I really can achieve good things and be more communicative with others without as much fear. In college I strive to obtain a college degree Majoring in Accounting and Minoring in Business to become a Financial Manager."

-Delilah Olivas (NMSU Gadsden / Las Cruces UB)

"The McNair Scholars Program and TRIO Student Support Services (TRIO SSS) have been nothing short of lifelines in my pursuit of higher education. As a first-generation Hispanic college student from a modest background, I often faced overwhelming challenges that made my academic dreams seem almost out of reach. The support, mentorship, and opportunities provided by these grant-funded programs have been transformative, turning obstacles into stepping stones toward success.  My TRIO mentor, and other dedicated faculty mentors from TRIO, have not only provided academic guidance but also taught me the value of perseverance, critical thinking, and community engagement. By empowering individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, these programs build stronger communities and drive our nation’s future innovation. Today, thanks to the dedication of grant-funded programs like McNair and TRIO SSS, I see a bright and purposeful future for not only my personal investment, but, by extension, for those I am committed to serving."

-Ruben Morales Jr. (NMSU SSS & NMSU McNair Scholar) 

"TRIO helped me overcome many downs and now I am a better person and I love the way I am!  I would probably still be shy, quiet, and not interested in college if I didn't have TRIO to help me open up.  Now I am about to transfer to Fort Lewis for my bachelors."

- Robert Alexander (San Juan College SSS)

"Upward Bound is a very important group to me especially for helping me with my studies and helping to improve my social skills.  I see a lot of my peers falling behind in school and not being able to keep their grades up and I aspire to be able to give them extra help they need by being able to show them how to do the work and even trying to see if they would like to join Upward Bound.  When my mom was my age she was in Upward Bound and being in Upward Bound helped her with school and gave her a lot of opportunities to go to colleges and do fun activities that she wouldn't be able to do if she wasn't in Upward Bound.  I know if I stay in Upward Bound I'll also be given those opportunities which I also would have never been given without the group.  When I have kids and they get to my age I know I would want them to be in Upward Bound."

- Michael Gonzalez (ENMU-Roswell UB)

"My parents always told me to take any opportunity available to me.  Growing up in a rural town meant the classes I was taking were not rigorous.  Underfunded and short staffed schools means substitutes for each class, crowded classrooms, and students not learning.  That's why I joined Upward Bound.  Without Upward Bound, I would be completely in the dark about college and what to do.  Upward Bound is one opportunity that should not be missed."

-Adri Fuentes (Northern New Mexico College UB)

"With the help of NMSU TRIO Upward Bound staff, my confidence with school and my future skyrocketed. My previous perspective of “What if I can't” changed to “What if I can.” What if I can exceed my potential and be a successful and hardworking woman? If it wasn't for the NMSU TRIO Upward Bound program I wouldn't have the confidence in myself as I do now. Thanks to the NMSU TRIO Upward Bound program, I plan on attending NMSU and pursue a career in nursing to be an amazing NICU nurse.

- Brianna Reyes (NMSU Gadsden/Las Cruces UB)

"Being First-Generation, my parents have no idea what it's like to be in college.  In TRIO I have gained friends and awesome bosses being a mentor/tutor for TRIO STEM-H SSS.  As a participant, having a mentor is so nice because I have someone who is invested in me and my progress.  I probably wouldn't have made it this far in college.  I wouldn't know how to register or get through financially.  I wouldn't have an awesome job where I can help others.  TRIO means that someone is always here for me no matter what, or I'm that person for other students."

-Cassidy Schultz (NMSU STEM-H SSS)

"TRIO means support, compassion, understanding and guidance in my life.  I'm very shy and I've been forced out of my comfort zone to talk to other people.  I have had on eon one tutoring on classes that were challenging to me.  I've had emotional stress and anxiety help with resources from my mentor.  TRIO also gives me access to scholarships.  Without TRIO, I feel like the TRIO SSS participants would feel lost around campus, in their school work, and have no support within the university."

- Luisa Zavala (NMSU SSS)