After graduating from high school, Vanessa Waugh, of Tewksbury, was uncertain of her next steps. She felt she should go to college, but did not know what to pursue for a major or career. A conversation with her parents led her to Middlesex Community College where she was able to explore her options, find her path, and connect with the community.
“I had an absolutely amazing experience with my time at MCC,” Waugh said. “As someone who was very nervous about going to college, it was so relieving to be surrounded by such a kind and outgoing group of people. From the first day I just felt like I belonged and that I was not alone. We were all in the same boat.”
At Middlesex, Waugh started off as an undeclared major before deciding on Liberal Arts and Sciences. In addition to allowing her to complete her general education requirements, she was able to tailor her course schedule to her interests and timeframe. This led Waugh to the theatre department where MCC’s Chair of Performing Arts Karen Oster was one of the first to make her feel welcomed at the college.
“I had an absolutely amazing experience with my time at MCC. As someone who was very nervous about going to college, it was so relieving to be surrounded by such a kind and outgoing group of people. From the first day I just felt like I belonged and that I was not alone. We were all in the same boat.” - Vanessa Waugh, MCC Alumna
In her first semester at Middlesex, Waugh auditioned for and performed in MCC’s production of “Dead Man’s Cell Phone.” She continued to stay involved with the program, enjoying how Oster chose productions related to current world challenges and social issues. To prepare for performances, Oster would have Waugh and her castmates analyze the script to make sure they found the best way to depict the show.
“There is a lot of thought and hard work that goes into the productions, and it just makes the whole experience feel so rewarding,” Waugh said. “I have never had more fun participating in a show than I have at MCC. I genuinely could never thank Karen enough for countless opportunities she’s granted me and for being someone I can always rely on when I need help.”
Apart from the Fall and Spring productions, Waugh performed with the department at MCC’s commencement and at the Lowell City of Lights Parade. Oster also helped connect Waugh to community partners and external opportunities, such as with the Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT).
Due to MCC’s partnership with MRT, Waugh was able to play a role in productions for the organization. This includes the chance to sing at MRT’s annual gala and do a table read for a new play with the writer this past summer. Having these opportunities helped Waugh grow and be successful in her academic pursuits, as well as more clearly develop her personal and professional goals.
“Having these experiences taught me how to present myself in the best light,” Waugh said. “I know that while others' impression or opinion of me is important, it is not the end all be all of every situation, and that sometimes it isn’t about me specifically, but rather that they were just looking for something else. This logic has really helped me deal with everyday situations, like applying for schools, jobs, and even just day-to-day interactions.”
After graduating from Middlesex in the Spring of 2024, Waugh transferred to UMass Lowell. Although she was hesitant to go to college in the first place, she believes MCC was the perfect starting point to figure out her plans. She is grateful for the experiences she gained at Middlesex both in and outside of the classroom.
“My education from MCC has already had a huge impact on helping me reach my goals,” she said. “I am currently halfway through a bachelor’s degree program with absolutely no debt or student loans taken out.”