New Student Orientation Prepares Students for MCC’s Fall Semester

Starting college can feel overwhelming, but Middlesex Community College’s New Student Orientation provides the support and skills students need to prepare for the Fall 2022 semester. During Orientation, current Middlesex students and alumni work as Orientation Leaders (OL) to help students learn more about the programs and services offered by the college.

“An OL assists with all orientation on-campus and online events and plays a vital role in facilitating the adjustment of new students to the MCC campus community and finding their sense of belonging,” said Steven Rossi, MCC’s Director of Student Engagement & Retention. “Being an OL is an outstanding opportunity for any student interested in gaining leadership skills and helping new students make a positive transition to the college.”

Ethan Muriuki, an Electrical Engineering from Lowell, credits MCC for helping him make a smooth transition to college. As he enjoys connecting with classmates from different cultures, becoming an OL was a chance to meet new people and help them as they adjust to college life. “I wanted to assist both new and current students to learn more about the many resources MCC has, as well as to learn the college process and interact with people at school.”

Having enjoyed experiences in her classes and activities around MCC, Maddy Fadden, an MCC Human Services student from Dracut, wanted to support new students by becoming an OL. It was also important to her to provide representation to the incoming class of students.

“I wanted to be an OL to show other students that it's okay to be your authentic self,” she said. “It’s a chance to show transgender representation and make connections with new students.”

The First Year Experience (FYE) is an important part of the MCC’s orientation. Over two days, students can take a class on the Bedford or Lowell campus and earn one credit.

“Students who participate in FYE courses have a solid understanding of what it takes to succeed in their courses,” said Faithe MacElliott, MCC’s Learning Specialist for TRIO Program for Student Achievement. “They are well prepared to navigate their college to career pathway.”

During an FYE course, students learn more about what it means to be a college student. They also have a chance to make friends and ask questions before the semester starts, according to Heloisa DaCunha, MCC Chair of Criminal and Social Justice.

“With an FYE course, students have an opportunity to learn about skills to succeed in college by navigating resources and technology from the library, student engagement, tutoring center, clubs and other services,” DaCunha said. “Along with their peers and faculty, students can start planning their academic path at MCC and in the future by reflecting on future goals and begin creating action plans to achieve their goals and how MCC play a role in their life goals.”

“Orientation provides knowledge both in theory and practice about the resources, facilities and people who work at MCC, laying the foundation for a successful first semester,” Muriuki said.