New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) opened its doors to the largest-ever crowd of high school juniors and seniors for an exciting and informative Discover Day on Friday, April 10. More than 1,400 students and guests attended the event aimed to introduce prospective students to the NMJC campus and showcase the opportunities available to them. With a fun-filled agenda, attendees were treated to a day of exploration, engagement, and entertainment. 

The event has grown immensely in the past three years, with approximately 800 students attending in 2024, and just over 1,000 in 2025. Students from regional high schools, including Lea County, and neighboring Texas and New Mexico counties attended the event.

Discover Day kicked off in the Caster Activity Center (CAC), where students gathered for registration and presentations. Excitement filled the air as attendees received goodie bags and were greeted by enthusiastic presenters, games, and giveaways. “It is truly an honor to be a small part of such a large event at NMJC! It is my desire to inspire and encourage our Thunderbirds and future Thunderbirds, hopefully this Discover Day did just that!,” said, Valerie Onsurez Gauna, Director of Outreach & Engagement. 

Attendees had the opportunity to interact with department booths, enjoy food trucks, and participate in various games and activities, live music and even haircuts from NMJC's Cosmetology and Barber students. Students were also treated to complimentary food and beverages. “Discover Day was an incredibly rewarding experience. It was so exciting to see high school juniors and seniors exploring campus and imagining themselves as future Thunderbirds! Their energy and curiosity made the day truly special. This event wouldn’t be possible without the support from departments across campus. I’m so grateful for the collaboration that helped bring everything together and made it such a meaningful day,” said, Deira Fernandez, Recruiter. 

 

 

New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) is a leading educational institution committed to providing success through learning and high-quality education to its diverse student body. Founded in 1965, NMJC offers a wide range of academic programs, certifications, and services to empower students to achieve their educational and career goals. 

 

Contact: Valerie Onsurez Gauna, Director of Engagement & Outreach, New Mexico Junior College, 575-492-2780, vgauna@nmjc.edu