MCC “Empowered” Student to Advance Career

After deciding to stay home and raise her children, Ashley Taylor-Dubois, of Maynard, wanted to make a career change when her oldest daughter started school. A licensed dental assistant, she was led to Middlesex Community College’s dental hygiene program. At Middlesex, she received extensive hands-on learning opportunities to help her achieve her dream career.

“Dental hygiene has always been on my radar, but it was never the right time to pursue it,” Taylor-Dubois said. “I was looking for a dental hygiene program that wouldn’t break the bank but would also get me the knowledge and experience I needed for my chosen field. After some research, MCC looked like the best place to start. After being in the program these last two years, I am in the right place and with the right people.

Taylor-Dubois believes the combination of studying full-time while being a mother has made her stronger on a personal and professional level. Although balancing all these responsibilities was challenging, she appreciates that she was surrounded by a community of learners who shared similar experiences.

In the two-year program, Taylor-Dubois formed a cohort with her classmates who together created a supportive environment to learn and be successful. She also benefitted from professors and staff members at Middlesex who offered guidance as she completed her coursework and hands-on training in the dental clinic.

“Nearly every member of the dental hygiene staff is amazing and willing to go the extra mile to make sure you understand the material and that you can pass your requirements,” Taylor-Dubois said. “Each professor brings something unique to the table that has been integral to my success in the program.”

In the spring of 2026, Taylor-Dubois was chosen to represent the student body during filming for MCC’s segment on “Empowered hosted by Meg Ryan.” The show will explore how community colleges serve as essential hubs for regional workforce development and equitable career access. Taylor-Dubois shared how her experience at Middlesex is setting her up for success in her future career.

President of MCC’s chapter of the Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association (SADHA), Taylor-Dubois was an active member of the community. At events at MCC and throughout Greater Lowell, she represented the college to spread awareness about the dental hygiene clinic. She also volunteered her time to perform dental hygiene services as part of the community outreach program.

“Our roles at these events served to bring awareness and information about the dental clinic on Middle Street, and to try to bring in new patients,” Taylor-Dubois said. “Attending the festivals and other events as dental hygiene students was a humbling and interesting experience. I learned that being a dental hygienist is not just about cleaning teeth – it is also about educating your patients on best practices to support and promote their health.”

Graduating with highest honors, Taylor-Dubois completed her studies at Middlesex in May 2026. Looking forward to working in the field, she is considering continuing her education to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the next few years. Inspired by participating in MCC’s community outreach opportunities, she may one day pursue becoming a public health hygienist. She believes Middlesex provided her with a “wonderful experience” to launch her career.

“Without MCC, I do not think that I would have ever considered public health as part of my plans,” she said. “I have been able to make connections in the dental hygiene network and in the Lowell community that I will keep as I begin my hygiene career and use them as building blocks for where I see myself in the next few years.”