MCC Offers Teens a Variety of Options for Spring and Summer 2022

“STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) should be introduced as early as possible, since studies show that when introduced in middle school or younger, it encourages lifelong interest,” said Julia Kelly, Middlesex Community College Associate Professor of Computer Science. “Computer science is one of the most versatile fields in addition to being quite lucrative when applied to jobs in industry or if paired with engineering.”

Through the college’s Community Education and Training (CET) division, Middlesex offers courses for youth that allow students to explore their interests, hone their general education skills, and learn more about college majors and career pathways. The programs run throughout the year and over the summer as after school, vacation and summer courses.

In MCC’s Summer 2022 College for Kids and Teens program, Kelly will teach two new coding programs to help students build a foundation in computer science. Students enrolled in the courses will learn logical thinking skills as well as other subjects that go along with computer science, including math, physics, chemistry, biology, writing, art and cultural exploration.

“Even if computer science is not a lifelong career, it can be a great supplement to any path in life,” Kelly said. “It is good to take the time to explore. Summer camps especially are excellent for branching out and enhancing whatever paths one chooses.”

In MCC’s youth programs ­– including the college’s Noncredit Youth Academy ­– students have the opportunity to jumpstart college and professional experiences in a variety of subjects, according to Lauren Ellis, MCC’s Program Manager for Community Education and Training.

“By engaging in our programs, teens are set up for success before they have even started college,” Ellis said. “MCC’s courses not only teach valuable skills students will need moving forward, but show them more about college, such as the process of applying and how to navigate classes and support services. The courses also equip students with healthy and mindful habits they will use both at college and in their future careers.”

MCC’s courses for teens cover topics including creative writing, music, engineering and business with direct, hands-on learning experiences taught by Middlesex faculty members. Students gain a better sense of completing a college application and following their next steps after graduating from high school.

Courses also include college and career readiness, algebra I and II review to help them improve general education skills, and financial literacy to give them a real-world understanding of money management skills such as credit scores, credit cards, loans and paychecks.

In the Brain Power Wellness for Youth course, students participate in interactive games and exercises to help them realize their potential and improve their focus, memory, creativity, confidence and manage their emotions, including anxiety and stress – all important to maintaining physical, emotional and cognitive health.

Please note that Middlesex requires all students to be vaccinated in order to come to campus, as of January 2022, including students enrolled in noncredit courses, such as College for Kids and Teens. Students who are unvaccinated can still choose to take online classes and access online resources and student support services.

MCC’s CET programs provide academic, professional and personal enrichment for students of all ages and stages in their lives – whether they are looking to jumpstart or advance college or a career. For more information, visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/cfteens.aspx or contact 781-280-3669 or career_training@middlesex.mass.edu.

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in education for more than 50 years. Middlesex puts the student first. Meeting each learner where they are, MCC provides them with a safe, welcoming and engaging place to learn. Offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses – Middlesex features flexible course formats and a variety of award-winning student support services and resources. Student success starts at MCC!