According to a recent poll, college‐bound high school seniors are generally satisfied with the current level of their parents’ involvement in the college search process. But nearly 30 percent want more, not less, parental involvement, a figure that jumps to over 40 percent among students with lower SAT scores and household incomes.

An article posted at collegeboard.com states that these findings appear to defy recent media reporting and other anecdotal evidence about “helicopter parents,” in particular the perception of a rising level of intrusive and alarming behavior. To read more, visit http://www.collegeboard.com/about/news_info/report.html

On Friday, March 16, more than 800 middle and high school students will converge on Johnson Center to compete in the Central New Mexico Science & Engineering Research Challenge in 14 different categories.

The categories include:

• Animal Sciences
• Behavioral/Social Sciences
• Cellular & Molecular Biology/Biochemistry
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Earth Science
• Engineering
• Energy & Transportation
• Environmental Science
• Mathematical Sciences
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Microbiology
• Physics & Astronomy
• Plant Sciences
• Changes in course placement testing and processes
• Expand on‐campus student employment opportunities
• Changes in how and when courses are scheduled
• More prescriptive enrollment policies, more diversity in faculty hiring and the development of faculty positions dedicated to undergraduate instruction

The CNM Science and Engineering Research Challenge can always use category judges. Potential judges should be available on March 16 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. An incredible experience awaits with an opportunity to interact with some of the best and brightest 6 – 12 grade students in New Mexico.

Students compete either in the Junior Division (6 – 8 grade) or Senior Division (9 – 12 grade) for nearly $60,000 in cash/tangible awards and scholarships. Judges are well fed, have lots of caffeine available, and have opportunities to network with many other professionals in their areas of expertise.

If you’re available to judge Friday, March 16 visit:stemed.unm.edu/JudgeInfo for training materials and other judging resources.

For more information call Karen Kinsman at 277‑4916.

Informed, involved parents are an important resource for UNM students. Whether you have a question about a deadline, specific department, need a direct line to a parent contact, or want to know more about what UNM has to offer, this site will steer you to information that you need to know.