MCC Offers Tips for Success Ahead of Spring 2024 Semester

Middlesex Community College’s Spring 2024 semester starts on Monday, January 22. Ahead of the semester, professionals from across the college are offering strategies to help new and current students set themselves up for success.

“A large barrier that many students face is financial, but MCC has a variety of ways to support students in paying for college and alleviating that stress,” says Serrahtani Parrish, MCC’s Success Scholars Program Financial Wellness Coach. “Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the easiest way students can get money toward their education. Many students often qualify for more assistance than they think, and the FAFSA is a great way to save time and money in the college process.”

Students who fill out their FAFSA may qualify for state or federal grants, work-study funds, or federal student loans. All eligible Middlesex students can also take advantage of MassReconnect. The state-funded program assists Massachusetts residents 25+ who do not have a degree in earning an associate degree or certificate from MCC for free.

In order to go through all of the steps of the college process, MCC’s Office of Advising encourages students to register for classes as early as possible. While allowing students time to access resources they need to make the start of the semester as smooth as possible, they will also learn the tools and support that are available to them throughout their time at MCC.

“One of the best ways for students to prepare for a new semester is to update their academic plan,” said Bryan Wint, MCC’s Assistant Dean of Pathway & Academic Advising. “We have a diverse and welcoming advising team to help guide students through that process, which can make all the difference in a student’s ability to finish their education. With a few small changes, a student may be able to complete their degree faster, set achievable short- and long-term goals, stay organized, be better equipped to manage coursework, and connect with all of the resources available they need in order to be successful.”

With a strong focus on supporting the whole student, MCC also believes it is important to support students in their emotional, mental and physical well-being. The college’s Wellness Resource Center is available to guide students through the beginning of the semester to the end. This includes helping them better manage emotions, deal with stress, access healthy foods, and connect with a professional counselor.

“Taking care of our students beyond their studies matters so much to their overall success, and MCC has a plan in place to provide this support,” said Jonathan Crockett, MCC’s Coordinator of Essential Needs and Community Resources. “Whether it’s offering counseling services or fresh, healthy and grabbable food on-site at both campuses, we understand that these services can make the difference in a student’s academic and personal life. Positive mental and physical health leads to more long-term happiness and success for them.”

Running now through the first week of classes, MCC will host Drop-in Registration hours 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. MCC staff will be on-campus in both Bedford and Lowell to assist students with submitting an application, completing course placement, registering for classes, answering questions about financial aid, and more.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ for more information and to register for classes.