A 2018 graduate, Madison Umbrello, of Waltham, returned to Middlesex Community College in the Fall of 2025 to design visuals for a storybook created by the college. Entitled “Swoops and the Magical Map to the World,” the children’s book features MCC’s owl mascot Swoops visiting countries around the globe. Debuting at Lowell’s annual City of Lights Parade, the book was handed out aside MCC’s float.
“I really enjoyed the experience, and it’s really neat to be able to see the physical book as a culmination of everyone’s work,” Umbrello said. “I am so grateful to MCC – and the Communications and Creative Services (CCS) team – for giving me this amazing opportunity. I had such a fun time, and it was a delightful experience to do something I love like drawing for such a special cause.”
Her time at Middlesex helped prepare Umbrello for working on the storybook, including networking with connections she met at the college. She also followed professional processes she learned as a student – from researching topics to using reference photos as a guide and sketching different drafts. Collaborating with the CCS team, Umbrello based her drawing ideas on the book’s text and image suggestions.
Featured countries in the story were based on MCC’s student population. Using a magical map, Swoops is transported to the 10 countries to join in cultural celebrations. Umbrello felt inspired to work on the project because of her experience meeting and learning from Middlesex classmates from various backgrounds.
“The idea behind the book is lovely – it’s so important to celebrate all backgrounds and walks of life, and to explore how diverse the student body is here at MCC,” Umbrello said. “When I was a student, I had so many friends from around the world, and it was always such a great experience to be able to talk to them and learn more about their backgrounds and cultures.”
On recommendation of friends, Umbrello started at MCC by taking dual enrollment classes at 15-years-old. Passionate about art since she was younger, she wanted to pursue an academic and career path that was creative and in an arts field. Graphic design allowed her to combine her arts interest with problem-solving skills, while Middlesex offered her the opportunity to learn from small class sizes and dedicated professors.
From professors such as Joe Eiler and Jeanne Cronin, Umbrello found mentorship and guidance as she discovered more about the profession. Presenting at her portfolio presentation also gave her hands-on experience showcasing her work and meeting with potential employers. After her presentation, Umbrello gained an internship that turned into a full-time job after graduating.
“MCC genuinely prepared me for the workforce right out of college,” Umbrello said. “I felt equipped with the skills to be able to achieve anything I set my mind on and made great connections that helped me outside of school as well.”
At MCC, Umbrello participated in the Commonwealth Honors Program (CHP) and the Graphic Design Club. In addition to working after graduating, she continued her education to earn a bachelor’s degree. Now a senior art designer/art director and an adjunct professor, she believes Middlesex set her up for long-term success beyond her time at the college.
“I had an incredible time at MCC,” she said. “I felt really seen and valued as a student. I genuinely feel so lucky to have been able to get such an amazing education here and have met so many great people. I also loved how the program really made sure I was graduating with the skill set for me to put my best foot forward post-graduation.”