A new class of more than 2,400 first-year students is about to start at New Mexico State University (NMSU) this fall, alongside 9,000 continuing undergraduate students and 2,200 graduate students. These students have committed to working toward the day when they walk across the Commencement stage at the Pan American Center to the cheers of family, friends, and hundreds of other graduates. They have all opted to invest in their future by spending time and money on the promise of a college education at an institution where they can feel at home.
It's likely that most NMSU students have encountered negative messages about the value of a college education. Critics express concerns about the high cost, return on investment, and the perception that colleges are exclusive institutions that only welcome students from families with a history in higher education. According to Renay Scott, NMSU Vice President for Student Success, "These critics could not be more wrong."
Although we live in uncertain times, some things do not change. Obtaining a college degree remains an important achievement in our post-COVID-19 economy. In New Mexico, higher education pays even greater dividends that benefit individual students, their families, and even the state.
Most New Mexicans can get college tuition and fees paid by the New Mexico Lottery Scholarship and the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship. Low-income students who qualify for federal Pell Grants – nearly half of NMSU's student population – might receive nearly $7,400 more to help pay other school costs. Since 2021, NMSU has supported all incoming students with a technology scholarship in the form of a laptop computer. "We welcome students," Scott stated. "Help them pay for school and help ensure that they have the tools to succeed." The high college costs that make headlines at other institutions are not typical for resident students at state institutions like NMSU.
Likewise, cautionary tales about staggering college debt are not common at NMSU. According to U.S. News & World Report, the average student loan debt for graduates at NMSU is $17,095 compared to median loans of all borrowers in 2023 ranging from $20,000 to $25,000 as reported by the Federal Reserve. BestColleges.com reports that average loan debt for graduates from all New Mexico colleges is $34,140—double what it is for an NMSU graduate.
While $17,095 is significant for most people, Scott emphasized that "our graduates get good jobs." The six biggest career sectors employing NMSU alumni include business administration; marketing; electrical and computer engineering; aerospace engineering; education; and nursing. Moreover,"the average mid-career salary of an NMSU graduate is just under $84,000 per year." Investments made by New Mexico into scholarships result in 33% of NMSU graduates working within the state while contributing significantly to regional economies.
Students attending NMSU find belongingness success opportunities preparing them for post-college careers Nearly 75% first-time return after their first year More than 85% senior first-year report National Student Survey Engagement would choose again
Fueling student success begins with ensuring resources support schedules meet needs Opportunities attend traditional person flexible online programs offered Global All welcomed before semester orientation learn access tutoring career exploration meaningful life activities Faculty provide mentoring within discipline guidance research opportunities Education Abroad internships experiential learning authentic experiences hone skills desired employers century workplace
Students attending understand excellent investment promising future As friends families community members need commit helping earn future
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