The program is heading into its second year of operation.

In 2014, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar helped Texas A&M International University get a $750,000 three-year federal grant.

Julio Madrigal, TAMIU executive director of office of special programs, said the grant was meant to serve 36 students.

“We didn’t want any child to be left behind so we incorporated an additional 67 kids,” he said.

Some students are part of the university’s GEAR UP IV Program, which is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter postsecondary education.

“Our goal is to have students ready to go into STEM careers,” Madrigal said.

During the orientation, Cuellar spoke about the importance of the program.

Cuellar said Hispanics are “incredibly underrepresented” in STEM fields.

“Although Hispanics compose 20 percent of America’s youth, only 2 percent make up the STEM workforce,” he said.

Cuellar said with MSEIP, students may access supplemental programs, such as tutoring and high tech labs.

“The world is increasingly science and technology independent,” he said.

“We need to make sure our students are adequately prepared for the changing workplace.”

After the orientation, students received a certificate of completion for their first year.

Victoria Chavez, student at Cigarroa High School, said she was excited for her second year in the program.

“I am interested in math and engineering,” she said.

“I joined the program to learn more. I’m glad I applied.”

(Judith Rayo may be reached at 728-2567 or jrayo@lmtonline.com)