For MCC Student, Community Feels Like “Home”

Drawn to a community college after graduating from high school, Edanalis "Nana" Rosario chose Middlesex Community College because it was close to her home in Lowell. A first-generation student, she was interested in seeing what college life was like. At Middlesex, Rosario found a community of support and a collection of opportunities that make her feel like MCC is home.

"My overall experience has been great – great professors, classes and overall support system," Rosario said. "Being a first-gen student, you have to set the bar high and show people that you got it. You wake up every day and you push through and show your family, show your siblings, that you are committed in life, and you want to show your family who you are."

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Through the Office of Student Engagement, Rosario became an orientation leader to help new students adjust to life at MCC. As a Wellness Ambassador for the Wellness Resource Center (WRC), she connects students to valuable resources offered by the college, from free counseling to the food pantries. Starting this fall, she is also excited to be a peer mentor for the college's SUCCESS Scholars Program.

A proud first-generation student, Rosario found immediate support from MCC's TRIO office. Receiving one-on-one advising and guidance made her feel comfortable from the start of her time at Middlesex. She credits Ashley Gonzalez, MCC's Director of TRIO programs, for being one of the staff members who is making a positive impact on her experience at the college.

"They make sure that I am taken care of, and if there's a miscommunication, they'll take the time and check in with me," Rosario said. "Seeing how TRIO looks out for each other and being united as one is really, really cool, good and powerful."

At the 2026 Evening of Excellence, Rosario received the Student Spirit Award for her show of commitment and pride in Middlesex. A visible champion of MCC's mission, projects and students, she was honored for her kindness, enthusiasm and support throughout the 2025-2026 academic year. Recognized for building strong connections with peers, Rosario grew in confidence and developed leadership and self-advocacy skills to help guide herself and others to success.

"It's very rewarding to have this award," Rosario said. "I feel like I made a huge impact not just on MCC, but to the staff and students. I love helping new students and advocating for students the best way possible. It can be small things, like showing the direction of a new building or helping them around the campus. I feel rewarded and accomplished, and I want to be more of an advocate."

Studying in MCC's dental laboratory technology program, Rosario receives support from her professors who motivate her to keep going. In class, she gains a lot of hands-on experience performing various treatments, including crowns, bridges, dentures and prosthetics. These opportunities make her feel more prepared to one day work in the field.

Planning to graduate after completing the Fall 2026 semester, Rosario hopes to continue her journey at Middlesex, both as a student and employee. Passionate about doing something creative, she is exploring her options to pursue a second field of study at Middlesex while working in a dental lab or office.

"I'm glad that I got a good, solid foundation," Rosario said. "The more you network, the more you meet people, the better chance that you will gain opportunity. MCC has been resourceful and rewarding."