While studying at a four-year university, Sophia Fiandaca, of Maynard, realized a passion for criminal justice. Based on the strong reputation for the college’s criminal and social justice program, she transferred to Middlesex Community College to pursue the field. At Middlesex, Fiandaca is finding success in her future career through access to hands-on learning opportunities, free support services, and a guided pathway.
“I wanted to do something hands-on, fast-paced, and most importantly, something that would allow me to provide care for my community,” Fiandaca said. “I decided studying criminal justice was a goal worth pursuing because it gave me such a strong sense of purpose. I chose to come to MCC because of their criminal justice program, as well as because of their student accommodations. My experience at MCC has been extremely fulfilling.”
Interested in criminal law, policing and criminology, Fiandaca plans to join the police academy and become a patrol officer. A combination of the knowledge she is learning in her classes and her internship with the Lowell Police Department is helping her reach her goals.
Having the opportunity to see police work in action has been an informative experience for Fiandaca. She also appreciates her professors’ support in helping her navigate college. While program chair Heloisa DaCunha suggests opportunities and classes to ensure Fiandaca’s success, professor Kenneth Lavallee offers support through engaging and creative classes.
“The best things about MCC’s program are the amazing and inspiring faculty, the ample opportunities the program offers – including internships and networking opportunities – and the option for most classes to be in-person, hybrid or fully remote,” Fiandaca said. “I cannot stress enough how much these opportunities have benefitted my education.”
In addition to her criminal justice classes, Fiandaca is developing communication and interpersonal skills she believes will lend to her success as a patrol officer. She has improved her writing skills, as well as learned how to make important connections with people both at the college and within her field.
“I decided studying criminal justice was a goal worth pursuing because it gave me such a strong sense of purpose. I chose to come to MCC because of their criminal justice program, as well as because of their student accommodations. My experience at MCC has been extremely fulfilling.” - Sophia Fiandaca, MCC Student
Outside of class, Fiandaca was a member of the Student Government Association (SGA) where she learned more about how the college and government run. While participating in activities related to the criminal and social justice program, she is also grateful for MCC’s support services and affordable prices to make attending possible.
“Students are afforded free parking, free food and free travel by bus – not to mention the low textbook and academic prices in general,” she said. “MCC is a great school that accommodates every student’s needs.”
Drawn to MCC for the college’s affordable prices, Fiandaca also found a new appreciation for education. Now she looks forward to graduating and continuing her studies at UMass Lowell to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Support from MCC’s faculty, resources and experiences in and outside of the classroom are leading her to be successful.
“Prior to enrolling at MCC, I did not enjoy school at all, and my family was struggling to afford a higher education,” she said. “MCC changed both these things for the better and provided me with generous educational and financial opportunities that will undoubtedly help me further succeed in the future. I cannot remember the last time I genuinely loved learning and school as much as I do now – thanks to the MCC community.”