Vanessa Heinen first came to Middlesex Community College to take English classes. From Brazil, she now lives in Lexington and is enrolled in MCC’s Biotechnology program. While she takes classes, she is also interning as a Teacher Assistant in MCC’s biotech classes, giving her early exposure to experiences in the industry.
“My experience being an MCC student has been life-changing,” Heinen said. “I always knew I loved science and lab-related work, but it was here that I found my passion. With MCC’s biotech program, I hope to acquire the lab skills I am missing, be more confident, and embrace the numerous opportunities that biotech has. When I started looking for a place to do my associate, MCC was my first choice.”
Heinen has been helped by a variety of sources at Middlesex, including through flexible course offerings, dedicated professors, and engaging support services. Being able to choose her classes and the times they are offered helps her better manage her schedule as an international student taking 12 credits over a semester.
“My experience being an MCC student has been life-changing. I always knew I loved science and lab-related work, but it was here that I found my passion. With MCC’s biotech program, I hope to acquire the lab skills I am missing, be more confident, and embrace the numerous opportunities that biotech has. When I started looking for a place to do my associate, MCC was my first choice.” – Vanessa Heinen, MCC Alumna
In her classes, Heinen is impressed by the knowledge her professors have for the subject and the guidance they offer to their students in navigating careers. One of her professors suggested she enter the field after noticing her enjoyment of working in the lab. Heinen also appreciates how the professors encourage conversation and sharing of different perspectives between classmates. To Heinen, this leads to a clearer vision of the future.
“The professors’ effort to bring the reality of the field of study into the class is impressive,” she said. “They focus on preparing students to be ready to work, linking class theories with what the students will face in the market. That makes me feel better prepared for when I start working.”
For the past year, Heinen has been an International Ambassador, helping organize events, workshops and field trips for students from other countries to get to know classmates, the college, and the community. Through MCC’s Success Scholars Program – supporting Asian American, Black, African American, Latinx and LGBTQ+ students – she also connected with the International Student Office, Multicultural Center and Academics Centers for Enrichment (ACE).
“I could always find people with similar backgrounds and experiences,” Heinen said. “We helped each other by sharing like-minded interests, passions and academic goals. It helped me navigate college time and face transitions, especially in my first year of college.”
During a time that felt overwhelming and challenging having started college, Heinen’s network of support at Middlesex – along with the diverse community – made her feel welcome and gave her the tools to succeed.
“Students get the education and skills that can help them find more than a profession,” she said. “I found my passion and it is opening doors to a promising future.”