Trained as a nurse in her home country, Young Park, of Lexington, moved to the United States and decided to return to school. At Middlesex Community College, she rediscovered a love for mathematics and found a passion for entrepreneurship. Earning a degree in liberal studies, she is preparing for a new career path.
“MCC has opened an entirely new chapter in my life,” Park said. “After almost 30 years away from school, it reignited my intellectual curiosity and gave me confidence I thought I had lost. Every time I walk onto campus, I feel joy and gratitude as I explore new subjects and continue learning.”
As an intern for MCC’s Launch Pop-up Market, Park partners with students to jumpstart their small businesses. In Lowell, mobile booths are available for students to test business concepts, experiment with new ideas, and learn how to be creative selling their products or services. Park collaborates with MCC’s Entrepreneurship Program Coordinator Stacie Hargis to organize the set up and marketing of the booths.
With her co-intern, Park also holds weekly meetings to plan and discuss the markets. Working with peers has built her confidence, communication and leadership skills, as well as given her more entrepreneurial experience. She believes this opportunity is empowering for students to take their learning beyond the classroom.
“While working as an intern, I have met many students who returned to school after a long break, as well as many immigrants who dream of achieving success just like me,” Park said. “This experience has benefited my learning by giving me practical, real-world experience in entrepreneurship. It has also enhanced my teamwork, planning, and problem-solving skills, and has helped me grow both academically and personally.”
For MCC’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE), Park is a Supplemental Instruction Leader for a pre-calculus class. Along with her internship, she enjoys developing classmates’ skills, while deepening her own knowledge. She feels the hands-on experiences have been fulfilling while getting her ready for a new profession.
Park started at Middlesex in the college’s Links Program where she honed skills to succeed in college-level courses while earning her associate degree. She also received special guidance on academic and professional steps from advisors such as Allison Norton, MCC’s Program Coordinator for the Adult Learning Center. As she continues taking classes, Park has found more support from faculty and staff.
“Whenever I seek guidance about my next steps and career pathway, professors and staff are willing to help me,” Park said. “Their advice and encouragement have given me the confidence to explore new opportunities and stay motivated in my academic journey.”
At Middlesex, Park also takes advantage of MCC’s support programs, including the Wellness Resource Center. She believes the college creates a supportive learning environment for people of different backgrounds – including non-native English speakers and returning students – in which to succeed.
After graduating from Middlesex, Park will transfer to a four-year institution. Her goal is to combine her passion for math and entrepreneurship by creating a business focused on math education. Middlesex has provided her the knowledge, confidence and initiative to take these next steps.
“These experiences have inspired me to continue my education and contribute to a community where we support and uplift each other,” she said. “They are helping me reimagine what my future can look like and inspiring me to pursue a new professional path.”