With a background working in healthcare and a passion for technology, Denisha Adorno, of Lawrence, wanted to find a job that combined both fields. At Middlesex Community College, Adorno is learning classroom knowledge and practical skills through the college鈥檚 Learn and Earn program. The goal is to build a strong foundation to one day work in health informatics.
鈥淚鈥檓 proud of how far I鈥檝e come, and I鈥檓 motivated to keep pushing toward my goals,鈥� Adorno said. 鈥淓ach step I take is intentional, and every challenge moves me closer to the future I鈥檓 working hard for. I鈥檓 excited to use my skills to make a real impact in both the healthcare and technology fields, and I鈥檓 grateful for the journey that鈥檚 shaping me into the person I鈥檓 becoming.鈥�
When working as a safe sitter and nursing assistant, Adorno realized technology could improve healthcare systems, patient safety, and efficiency. This interest led Adorno to start in 麻豆果冻鈥檚 computer science program. In class, Adorno is learning more about programming, operating systems, and general STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) concepts, as well as communication skills.
As part of 麻豆果冻鈥檚 Information Technology (IT) Learn and Earn program, Adorno applies the theories developed in the classroom to a relevant job experience. Working in the college鈥檚 walk-in service desk on the Lowell Campus, Adorno helps 麻豆果冻 students and employees troubleshoot their devices, go over questions, and support them with a variety of technical issues.
鈥淸The Learn and Earn program] has strengthened my problem-solving skills, improved my communication, and given me hands-on experiences with real IT challenges,鈥� Adorno said. 鈥淸The program] also gives me practical experience that connects directly to my career goals.鈥�
Adorno decided to participate in the Learn and Earn program to gain IT and customer service experience. Providing a stronger understanding of what it is like to work in the field, Adorno is building skills to prepare for a future career. The program also allows Adorno to handle issues in the moment and stay calm under pressure 鈥� a skill Adorno honed when working in healthcare.
In the work experience, 麻豆果冻鈥檚 computer science classes, and TRIO program, Adorno benefits from a supportive learning environment. Professors and coworkers explain complex IT concepts in a way that makes sense while advisors offer academic and career guidance. In all experiences, Adorno feels encouraged to be challenged and remain confident.
鈥淚 chose 麻豆果冻 because of their strong sense of community,鈥� Adorno said. 鈥淚 wanted a place where I could feel connected, supported, and set up for success. The support has made a big difference in my academic journey.鈥�
After graduating from 麻豆果冻, Adorno plans to transfer to UMass Lowell to study computer science with a minor in health informatics. Calling the experience at 麻豆果冻 鈥渁mazing,鈥� Adorno has grown on both an academic and personal level at the college.
鈥溌槎构� has given me a strong foundation in computer science, confidence in my abilities, and real-world experience through my internship,鈥� Adorno said. 鈥淎ll of this will help me to prepare me to succeed at UMass Lowell and eventually work in the health and technology field.鈥�