At MCC, 2023 Graduate Accomplishes What She Didn’t Think Possible

As her daughter prepares to receive her high school diploma, Becky Parenteau will graduate from college at the same time. Having always had an interest in law, Parenteau, of West Warwick, R.I., is earning her associate degree in Paralegal Studies from Middlesex Community College. Although she was nervous to return to school after 10+ years – and was unsure it was something she could accomplish – she has had a great experience at MCC.

“I never pictured myself graduating from college because I always needed to work so much just to provide for my family,” Parenteau said. “Now that my children are older and have become a little more self-sufficient, I knew it was the right time to pursue my goals. Graduating at the same time as your child graduating high school isn't ideal to many parents because they believe you're supposed to do that before you have children. However, that is not always how life works. So, for any parents that think it's too late, it's not. Anything is possible.”

Even though she lives in a different state, Parenteau chose to come to Middlesex because the college offers an American Bar Association (ABA) approved program. Being able to choose between online, hybrid and on-campus classes has also made it easier for her to fit classes in-between being a full-time mom and employee. “I feel like this is very accommodating,” she said.

Parenteau has already received a National Certificate in Legal Technology and taken classes that cover a range of topics for her industry. While criminal and family law interest her most, she believes the variety MCC offers is “beneficial for any paralegal who is unsure what area of law they are interested in working for.”

Her internship with the Lowell Court Service Center is also helping Parenteau get more experience in the field. In her role, she provides assistance to clients, meets with them to get information and referrals, and helps them fill out and file documents.

“I am still considering becoming a lawyer, but I have not made up my mind yet,” Parenteau said. “I figured if I get the opportunity to work alongside lawyers for a period of time, hopefully that will help me decide if I want to become a lawyer or not.”

Professors – such as Halye Sugarman, MCC’s Paralegal Studies Program Coordinator – have offered guidance and support throughout Parenteau’s time in the program. Sugarman in particular helped her register for classes and answered all of her questions, from earning credits to preparing to graduate.

After she graduates from MCC in May 2023, Parenteau hopes to work for the District Attorney of Rhode Island or for the General Attorney’s office. She is grateful for how comfortable she felt at MCC from the very beginning, despite her initial concerns. Middlesex helped Parenteau to thrive in her return to school, including by making the Dean’s List every semester.

“It’s never too late to go back to school and achieve your goals,” Parenteau said. “If I can do it, anyone can.”