Pictured: Program participants with Manuel Rodriguez, Director of the Language Institute, at center.

Silver City, NM - More than 70 students representing different Mexican universities arrived to Western New Mexico University on Sunday, November 22 as part of a four-week intensive English program.

The students are members of the second class of Proyecta 100,000; a Mexican funded scholarship program supporting thousands of Mexican students and professors in American-based English language programs.

WNMU's Language Institute is facilitating the courses for the participants who are learning English in several levels.

"After last year's experience with more than 100 Mexicans on campus during the winter season, we felt prepared to take on this exciting program and are thrilled that WNMU was once again selected to be sent students," said Manuel Rodriguez, Director of the Language Institute.

The participants represent universities from several Mexican states including Chihuahua, Sonora, Puebla and Mexico City.

"There were many students who wanted to return to our campus for a second go around in the program; however, the Mexican government gave preference to first time participants," said Rodriguez.

Program participants are living in campus housing and will have several class sessions off campus and in the community in an effort to deliver a full immersion experience.