NHS, AHS Students, Family Attend TAMIU Family Day

Recently, Nixon and Alexander high school sophomores and their parents participated in a morning of learning and excitement at the Texas A&M International University Family Day.

The invited students are participating in the TAMIU Office of Special Program's GEAR UP "Creating a Vision" program. A total of 50 parents and 75 students attended the event, which included sessions on college preparation, financial aid and local scholarships.

Dr. Julio Madrigal, TAMIU professor and director of Special Programs, said the event was well received. He explained the goal of the "Creating A Vision" program was to increase the number of underrepresented minorities in colleges and universities.

"One way we can do that is by engaging high school students with local higher education. The GEAR UP Family Day allowed students and their families to come to TAMIU, learn about the real possibility of higher education, and enjoy some fun together," said Madrigal.

He said the program, now in its fourth year, was an early intervention program offering tutoring and summer classes to better prepare students for post-secondary academics.

Beatriz Salinas-Riojas, program director, said the event strived to create opportunities for students to be both engaged and entertained.

"One popular event was the 'Making Choices' skits, performed by Real Life Communications from Austin, Texas. These teenaged actors presented information on teen life and making choices in an engaging and entertaining way, and the Laredo students really enjoyed it," Salinas-Riojas said.

For more information, contact GEAR UP offices at 326.2766. University office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.