Recent Graduate and First Generation Student Got Her Start at MCC

For recent 2021 Middlesex Community College graduate Marissa Crue – from Hudson, Mass. – her time at the college was “life-changing.” The first generation student was unsure of her path after graduating from high school. Her time at Middlesex offered a foundation for learning, building connections and developing a more solid direction for her future.

“MCC was the stepping stone I needed in order to discover both my passions and my love of learning,” she said. “I am most grateful for all the wonderful opportunities MCC provided for me along my journey, and I am certain I can take what I have learned here and apply it in all avenues of my life.”

As a Liberal Arts and Sciences major, Crue had the opportunity to explore different subjects by taking a range of courses – from Latin American History and Literature to Forensic Science. While this flexibility of course requirements has prepared her for her transfer to Amherst College, the knowledge and skills she learned in her classes will “continue to benefit me throughout my life.”

“It was through this exploration that I discovered the academic areas I am most passionate about,” Crue said. “MCC has provided me with a foundational experience I needed to be a successful student going forward.”

In her Honors English 102 course with MCC Professor of English Jonathan Bennett, Crue developed her perspective of the world. From reading and engaging in conversations in class, she was inspired by all that she could learn. Bennett also helped her in writing her college essay to Amherst, and continues to offer support to help her achieve her goals.

Because of the pandemic, the college shifted courses and student support services to online platforms for much of 2020 and 2021. While Crue feels MCC made an effective transition to online learning – and still felt connected to her professors and classmates – she also took advantage of the circumstances to grow into a more independent learner.

A member of MCC’s honor society Phi Theta Kappa and the Commonwealth Honors Program, Crue thrived in her studies. Keeping busy throughout her time, she worked as an Embedded Writing Tutor, Blackboard Ambassador, Orientation Leader and Food Pantry Student Assistant, and participated in MCC’s TRIO Program for Student Success and Diversity Summit.

“I felt that the abundant support systems and groups throughout the college helped me feel like a part of a larger, strong community,” Crue said. “Aside from feeling proud, I am sad that I will be leaving a community that has brought so much good into my life.”

Her decision to start at Middlesex came after visiting the Lowell campus her senior year of high school. Crue needed a starting point, and Middlesex was the best option to establish her college career while saving money on tuition. Sensing the positive experiences that awaited her at Middlesex, Crue soon realized the impact the community and college would have on her.

“MCC is a place where you will find your people and be provided the opportunity to explore your interests,” she said. “If you are unsure about attending college, MCC is a great starting place.”

The Liberal Arts and Sciences program at MCC help students go into – and succeed in – the workforce or transfer to four-year schools with its award-winning and affordable offerings, small class sizes and flexible schedules. Visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/liberalarts/ for more information and to discover your path at Middlesex.

If you have ever taken a class at MCC, you are an alum! To share your story – and join the free Alumni Association – contact Amy Lee, Director of Annual Giving & Alumni Relations, at 978-656-3028 or leea@middlesex.mass.edu. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/alumni for more information.

Featuring flexible course formats and a variety of student support services and resources, MCC is registering now for the Fall 2021 semester. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu or call 1-800-818-3434 to register for classes.

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in online education for more than 20 years. We educate, engage and empower a diverse community of learners, offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses. Middlesex Community College: Student success starts here!