56 American Colleges With Surrounding Cities Full of Career and Networking Potential

55. University of New Mexico – Albuquerque’s Hub for Research, Aerospace & Indigenous Leadership

The University of New Mexico connects students to the state's powerful trifecta: research innovation, aerospace engineering, and public service. Located in Albuquerque, home to Sandia National Laboratories, Kirtland Air Force Base, and a rising film production scene, UNM students regularly land internships in national security, sustainability, and technology. It’s also a critical center for Native American leadership, law, and policy, offering students from all backgrounds a chance to engage with underrepresented communities through meaningful, career-shaping work. UNM’s unique location blends government access with cultural relevance, making it a launchpad for high-impact, socially conscious careers.