MCC Helps Recent Grad Advance in Career

Wanting to pursue a more administrative role in their current industry, Julia Pioli, of Winchester, decided to return to school. Focusing on business administration and marketing, Pioli was recommended to Middlesex Community College by friends. MCC’s combination of knowledge, experiences and opportunities is helping them get on track to reach the next stage in their career.

“I have my cosmetology license and have worked as a hairdresser for four years now but wanted an education in business to transition from behind the chair work to administrative while still working in the industry I love,” Pioli said. “I wanted an education where there was an emphasis on the connections and opportunities outside of the classroom. My overall experience at MCC has been nothing less than incredible.”

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At the college’s 2026 Evening of Excellence awards, Pioli received the Core Commitments Award. Based on nominations from faculty and staff, the award is given to a student who meets MCC’s core values of respecting others, striving for excellence, contributing to the community, developing strong ethics, and acting with integrity.

Recognized for being a champion of their peers, Pioli was a tutor for writing and STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) classes. Serving in leadership roles in the Paul Sullivan Leadership Program and as President of the Business and Economics Club and Treasurer for the Fashion Club, they attended events such as the Board of Trustees dinner for standout students.

“I chose to come to MCC because of the extracurricular activities and campus social scene that came from past students,” Pioli said. “All these experiences have taught me to balance my schedule and be able to do it all. I am not defined by one quality or club – I am a little bit of everything I do.”

During their time at Middlesex, Pioli held a strong academic record while working full-time and volunteering in the community. In MCC’s business program, they were guided by professor and advisor Vikram Sharma. Sharma pushed Pioli to do their best both in classes through coursework and presentations and outside of the classroom through experiences such as field trips and networking events.

One of Pioli’s favorite parts about MCC’s business program was the opportunity to participate in DECA competitions against students from four- and two-year schools. At the 2026 regional competition held at Stonehill College, Pioli earned a silver medal in fashion merchandising and marketing. They went on to place in the top 10 of winners for the same category at the DECA national competition held in Kentucky.

“Confidence, adaptability and grit are the keys to success,” Pioli said. “While this is true in any area of life, possessing these traits is what I believed to have set me apart from my competition, and what will allow me to continue to push myself to strive for better and more. DECA prepares you for the work you will encounter after your post-grad. Lectures, discussions, exams, and homework are the basis of your learning, but this experience of applying your education gives you an edge over others who have not.”

Graduating from Middlesex with highest honors, Pioli plans to transfer to Salem State University to continue pursuing business administration with a concentration in marketing and management. Helping them build their skills and experiences, MCC also showed Pioli how to balance their schedule while pursuing their passion.

“My education from MCC helped me build such a strong foundation in the balance of academics, community, and personal life that whatever or wherever I go now I am prepared,” they said. “The classes, professors, clubs, students, and overall community that surrounds me exceeded my expectations.”