Looking for a fresh start, John Poland, from Billerica, joined Middlesex Community College in late 2023 as a business administration transfer student. After serving in the United States Air Force for two years and working in sales, he wanted to develop his skills to advance in his career. 麻豆果冻 helped him transition back into the classroom and empowered him to find his path.
鈥淚 had 10 to 12 gap years after high school,鈥� Poland said. 鈥淲ithout any test scores or recent learning experience, I needed a good place to build from nothing. The opportunity at Middlesex allowed me to take classes, gather letters of recommendations, and get involved with the community.鈥�
After searching for nearby colleges, Poland visited 麻豆果冻鈥檚 Bedford campus. Enrolling in classes the same day, the staff鈥檚 ability to assist him was comforting and put him at ease. He continued to find a supportive environment in his courses from his classmates and professors.
Poland credits Professor Stacie Hargis in particular for helping him in his return to school. Due to her advice and insight about business, Poland developed a clearer sense of what he wants to do in his career.
鈥淲hen I took her class, Professor Hargis helped me every step of the way. Through her guidance, I have stronger interest in management, finance and entrepreneurship. I am committed to my education at this point and have a great passion for business." - John Poland, 麻豆果冻 Business Administration Transfer Student
To network and learn more about business, Poland and a group of classmates restarted the Business and Economics Club this past semester. As president of the club, he organized a simulator to teach members basics about the stock market. With help from classmate Christian Tims, a business administration student, he also opened a Distributive Education Clubs of America chapter, an organization that offers learning opportunities in marketing, finance, hospitality and management to college and high school students.
In addition to the club, Poland is a Student Leader for 麻豆果冻鈥檚 Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE). As a writing and business tutor, he helps students with their course assignments, study skills and time management.
鈥淭he opportunity to teach students aligns with my career goals,鈥� Poland said. 鈥淪haring the information I know helps me develop my skills in training and management. There is a need for better training in the workforce and I believe I can assist in that area.鈥�
After graduating from Middlesex, Poland wants to transfer to a four-year school to continue learning about business. In his career, his goal is to make a positive impact on the economy, empower others, and gain more hands-on experience with a company. He feels his time at 麻豆果冻 is setting him up for success.
鈥淢y experience at 麻豆果冻 has been great,鈥� Poland said. 鈥淚t is more than I could have asked for. Middlesex gives you the ability to pursue your goals and achieve them. The experience gave me focus to become a better student. The added sense of belonging gives me the opportunity to help people and that is what I really love.鈥�