MCC’s Best Ways to “ACE” Classes This Fall Semester

Ahead of the Fall 2022 semester, Middlesex Community College’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE) are providing a variety of resources to help students “ace” their classes. One resource is the ACE Google Classroom that debuted on Monday, August 1.

“The ACE Google Classroom has tips and strategies on how to be a successful college student,” said Christine Bell, MCC’s Director of Academic Support Programs. “Students who take advantage of the resources will learn how to better prepare for classes, navigate the online learning system Blackboard and other technology tools, and learn organization skills such as how to manage their time and study smarter.”

The resource guide was created to help students transition to online learning when the pandemic started, according to Katelyn Stewart, an MCC ACE Student Leader. The newest version includes strategies and tips provided by students because they know best about what needs to be done in order to be successful in classes.

“We’re reworking the ACE Google Classroom so it’s more for everyone,” Stewart said. “It has tips on how to prepare for class, take notes, how many hours you should expect to work on a class – the different things that a new student needs to know, but may not know. It has a wide variety of information in general for helping students out.”

In addition to tutoring in education, reading and writing, Stewart helps train other tutors. Hoping one day to work as a special education teacher, the work she is doing as a tutor is preparing her for her future career.

“I really love the ability to teach and help people progress,” she said. “When they walk out of a session clearly feeling good about their paper, I really love that. I’m here to become a teacher, it’s my passion.”

Stewart also collaborated with Bell to come up with a list of what students should do before starting the semester. This includes staying organized with a weekly schedule to block out time for school, work and personal time. Students should also make sure they have the appropriate materials for classes – and know where to find them – before the semester starts.

One of the best ways students can familiarize themselves with the resources and tools Middlesex offers is finding out their student A number and downloading the MCC mobile app, according to Stewart and Bell. This helps students connect with classmates and stay updated on what is happening around the community, including class offerings, activities, clubs and events.

As Stewart lives within five minutes from MCC, she also wants to emphasize the value of staying close to home and starting at a community college. “I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go, and the financials to get yourself started was nice,” she said. “It’s really conveniently located.”

Visit MCC’s ACE Google Classroom for more helpful tips for the 2022 Fall semester!