For many high school students, summer is a time to relax and take a break from the classroom.
For a group of students from Bloomfield High School, however, summer means something much bigger. It’s an opportunity to experience college life, explore future careers and gain the confidence needed to succeed in higher education.
The TRIO Upward Bound Summer Academy at San Juan College (SJC) is a six-week immersive learning experience. Designed for incoming sophomores, juniors and seniors, the program combines academics, leadership development and hands-on career exploration to help students build a strong foundation for success.
Now in its fourth year at SJC, the academy is funded through the TRIO Upward Bound grant and focuses on supporting first-generation and college-bound students as they navigate the path to higher education.
A College Experience That Inspires Growth
The Upward Bound Summer Academy gives students a unique opportunity to experience life on a college campus before graduating from high school. Participants live in campus housing during the week, attend classes and engage in activities designed to strengthen academic skills and personal development.
Students participate in coursework that reinforces STEM education, language arts and foreign language learning.
“This academy is an investment in our students and their futures,” said Director of TRIO Upward Bound Mabel Gonzalez. “By exposing them to college life and new career pathways, we're helping them see what's possible. We want these first-generation students to leave knowing they belong in higher education and that their dreams are within reach.”
Exploring High-Demand Career Pathways
In addition to academics, the Summer Academy introduces students to emerging industries and in-demand career opportunities. Through partnerships with the School of Business, Information Technology, and Social Sciences Programs, and the STEM Hub, participants gain hands-on exposure to fields that are shaping the future workforce.
Students explore topics such as:
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Entrepreneurship
- Marketing
- Robotics
These experiences allow students to connect classroom learning with real-world career opportunities while discovering interests that may influence their future educational and professional goals.
Building Leadership, Teamwork and Confidence
The benefits of the Upward Bound Summer Academy extend far beyond academics. Students participate in resident assistant (RA) led activities that promote teamwork, leadership and personal growth. Weekly Friday field trips provide additional opportunities for career exploration and experiential learning.
Students also take part in a three-day college tour at the end of the summer, visiting the University of New Mexico (UNM), New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) and the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA). These visits help students envision themselves on college campuses and gain a better understanding of the educational opportunities available throughout New Mexico.
According to Gonzalez, one of the most rewarding aspects of the program is watching students develop confidence and meaningful connections with their peers.
“One of my favorite moments this summer was watching the students on the campus ropes course,” Gonzalez said. “During the first week, many of them barely knew each other and were reluctant to participate. Just two weeks later, they were encouraging one another and working together as a team. Seeing that growth in such a short amount of time has been incredibly rewarding.”
Supporting First-Generation College Students in New Mexico
For many first-generation students, the path to college can feel unfamiliar and intimidating. Programs like TRIO Upward Bound play a critical role in helping students overcome challenges by providing guidance, resources and encouragement throughout their educational journey.
The Summer Academy creates an environment where students can explore possibilities, build confidence and develop the skills necessary to thrive in college and future careers.
