Rachel Jacobs, of Quincy, spent 15 years working in real estate and property management before deciding to change her career. Middlesex Community College made her transition back to school easier with a combination of online and hybrid classes, as well as offering one of the only American Bar Association (ABA) approved Paralegal Studies programs in Massachusetts.
“I have been very pleased with my overall experience at MCC,” Jacobs said. “The coursework has been challenging and the professors are knowledgeable and passionate about what they teach. This makes for an incredibly rich learning environment, one in which the students feel empowered for whatever comes next – whether that is more education or entry into the professional workforce.”
One of the benefits of MCC’s Paralegal Studies program for Jacobs was the option to take an internship to enhance her studies. Working with an attorney, she was given a number of hands-on experiences to hone the knowledge and skills she learned in her classes.
“The coursework has been challenging and the professors are knowledgeable and passionate about what they teach. This makes for an incredibly rich learning environment, one in which the students feel empowered for whatever comes next – whether that is more education or entry into the professional workforce.” - Rachel Jacobs, MCC Alum
To help her succeed in her transition into her new field, Jacobs also enrolled in MCC’s internship class. She was able to create a resume and engage in discussions about topics such as developing interview skills to better prepare her to start looking for jobs in the field.
“The concepts and teachings of the classroom are no longer just in books and lectures, they become part of your practice, which brings everything full circle,” she said. “Interning for an attorney has also built confidence in my abilities and I believe it will make me a more attractive candidate when I begin a job search.”
In addition to the flexibility of class formats to make her over an hour commute easier, Jacobs enjoys a supportive community with faculty and classmates. Positive reviews of MCC’s Paralegal Studies program led her to the college and she has found a strong curriculum and selection of classes that are helping her reach her goal of working as a paralegal.
Jacobs appreciates all of the professors she has taken classes with, including Russell Goldberg, Patricia Lemire, and Halye Sugarman. Program Coordinator for MCC’s program, Sugarman in particular has had a positive impact on Jacobs. Calling her “one of the best teachers I’ve ever had,” Jacobs benefitted from Sugarman’s clear and effective teaching style and passion for helping students succeed.
As she prepares to enter the industry, Jacobs is looking forward to working in a variety of different settings and be a contributing member of a law team. She feels as though Middlesex has given her a toolbox of skills that will serve her well as she begins working in the field she feels passionate about right after she graduates.
“My studies have left me feeling prepared and confident in my abilities,” she said. “I am very interested in the law as well as the amount of opportunity within this profession. I would highly recommend this program to anyone!”