MCC Enhances Orientation to Set Up Students for Success on Day One

Middlesex Community College is gearing up for the Fall 2023 semester. To set up new students for success from day one, Middlesex enhanced its orientation experience. MCC’s Orientation Plus includes the opportunity to register for a First Year Experience (FYE) session over the summer in addition to completing a mandatory online orientation.

“Orientation Plus combines orientation with classroom experiences to give students the essential tools they need to be successful in college,” said Deborah Botker, MCC’s Social Sciences Department Chair and Coordinator of FYE. “New students who complete the Orientation Plus experience are more likely to successfully complete classes and enroll in classes the following semester. This helps students reach their goals at Middlesex and beyond, whether they transfer to a four-year institution or enter the workforce.”

Held in August, on-campus and online FYE sessions provide new students with information to make their transition to MCC easier. Students earn one credit toward their degree for participating, while being introduced to valuable skills and resources that will help them do well in classes. Students must complete the online orientation in order to register for an FYE session.

Attending an FYE session allows students to meet advisors, faculty and staff who will assist them throughout their academic journey. They will also have the chance to meet with classmates, make connections, and feel more comfortable engaging in on-campus activities and events throughout their time at MCC.

MCC is offering a variety of FYE sessions designed to meet the needs of specific student populations. Sessions include support for students who have a documented disability or completed the accommodation process with the Office of Student Access and Support Services; TRIO supported or First Generation to college students; and students who self-identify as Black/African American and LatinX, LGBTQIA+, or Asian American.

“MCC’s Orientation Plus allows students to gain a strong sense of what Middlesex can offer them early on in their academic journey,” said Steven Rossi, MCC’s Director of Student Engagement. “The First Year Experience sessions in particular present an opportunity to earn a college credit, build connections within the MCC community, and better understand their path to their next steps – all before the first official day.”

Orientation helps new students get used to the college, campuses, community and resources available to them at MCC. The orientation can be completed at the student’s own pace from a phone, tablet or computer. The experience teaches them about academic expectations, how to get involved, navigating the campuses, and feeling confident about finding student support services.

The Fall 2023 semester starts on Tuesday, September 5. Students can choose to register for the traditional 15-week semester or two accelerated eight-week Mini-mesters. While Mini-mester I begins September 5, MCC’s Mini-mester II starts on Monday, October 30. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 for more information.