How CNM’s College and Career High School Has Helped Prepare this Student for the Next Step in His Educational Journey

When Gray Pendell-Jones was getting ready to start high school four years ago, he knew he wanted to explore his options. After attending an information session about CNM’s College and Career High School (CCHS), he knew he’d found the perfect fit.  

“When I learned that I could earn college credit while still in high school, all for free, I knew pretty quickly that I wanted to enroll at CCHS,” Gray says. “I’ve really enjoyed myself over the last four years and am thankful for the guidance I’ve received along the way.” 

The College and Career High School is located on CNM’s Main Campus and is operated through a partnership with Albuquerque Public Schools. As a student, Gray has taken CNM dual-credit classes that count towards his high school diploma and various CNM associate degree and certificate programs, all tuition free. All high school students in the greater Albuquerque area can take dual-credit classes. 

At first this was a little intimidating for Gray, especially since he was only 14 when he first started taking college courses. But with the guidance of his CCHS instructors, he quickly found his footing. 

“It was really overwhelming when I first started because I was learning how to be in high school and college at the same time,” he says. “But the instructors at CCHS helped me learn how to prioritize my time and find ways to balance my high school and college course work, which was crucial to my success.” 

Gray has also enjoyed the diverse and unique community he's found during his time at CCHS.  

“One of my favorite parts of being a dual credit student is having the chance to take such a wide variety of classes with people from all kinds of backgrounds,” he says. “I’ve taken everything from political science to drawing at CNM, and in every class I’ve enjoyed learning and discussing different topics with people who are truly interested in the subject.” 

Gray will graduate from CCHS in spring 2025 with his high school diploma along with associate degrees in Liberal Arts and English, as well as a General Studies certificate. After graduating, he plans to pursue his bachelor’s degree in journalism or creative writing.  

As he reflects on his time at CCHS, Gray is thankful for this unique opportunity and feels prepared for what lies ahead.  

“I’ve really enjoyed my time over the last four years at CCHS,” he says. “And I absolutely feel prepared to take the next step in my educational journey, wherever it may take me.”