Key takeaways: At Dell Technologies Forum in New York City, 27 students from Gregorio Luperon High School experienced a hands-on day with Dell AI PCs, Microsoft Copilot, mentorship and real-world demos. The pilot Student Ambassador Program showed how access and guidance can unlock interest in STEM and spark confidence for future careers. We plan to expand the program through Dell Customer Solution Centers and education partnerships.
At Dell Technologies, we invest in the next generation by pairing access with opportunity. That belief came to life in New York City at the Dell Technologies Forum, where we launched a pilot Student Ambassador Program with the NYC Department of Education and Microsoft. We welcomed 27 students from Gregorio Luperon High School for Science & Mathematics for a day of discovery, mentorship and hands-on learning.
Opening doors with partners
In partnership with the NYC Department of Education, we created a focused experience that bridges classroom learning with real-world technology. Many schools are still assessing how to bring AI into instruction in a safe and thoughtful way. Our aim was to show how Dell AI solutions, alongside Microsoft Copilot for Windows, can support research, fuel creativity and help students build skills that matter.
For students who primarily use Chromebooks, the day offered a fresh view of what’s possible when capable hardware meets approachable software. It helped them visualize how technology can support their growth now and in the future. Learn more about how the city supports student success through the NYC Department of Education.
What the day looked like
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- Main stage energy – Students had reserved seats up front for the opening keynote, where they saw how ideas become impact. The interactive format made complex topics feel accessible and exciting.
- Hands-on with AI – After the keynote, students joined a live demo of an AI PC experience powered by Copilot. Presenters used relatable examples to demystify GPUs and NPUs.
- Exploring innovation up close – In the Innovation Marketplace, students visited a sustainability garden, previewed rugged devices built for field use and recharged at the “paws and relax” therapy dog area. The mix of demos and downtime created space for curiosity to grow.
- Mentorship that builds confidence – Students took part in mock interviews and one-on-one conversations with professionals from Dell, Microsoft and a Columbia Fellow. The candid guidance helped connect what they learn in class to real career paths in technology.
The impact we saw
Throughout the day, students asked questions, compared notes and shared their aspirations. Many left with renewed interest in technology, engineering or computer science. Comments like “Now I want to go into technology” showed how access and encouragement can change trajectories. Real-world experiences like this create momentum and open doors to higher learning and meaningful careers.
What’s next for the Student Ambassador Program
New York City was a starting point. We plan to refine and scale the Student Ambassador Program and bring similar experiences to more communities. That includes:
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- Hosting regular hands-on sessions at Dell Customer Solution Centers
- Connecting students to practical pathways through Dell Learning
We will continue to pair leading hardware with essential software and the training and skills necessary to help students be prepared for the opportunities ahead. The Student Ambassador Program is more than an event. It’s a catalyst for lifelong learning and a path for tomorrow’s problem solvers to gain confidence, skills, and community.
If you’re an educator or district leader interested in bringing experiences like this to your students, reach out to your Dell representative to explore options through our Customer Solution Centers and education programs. Together, we can make technology, mentorship and opportunity more accessible to every student who’s ready to explore what’s next.
