FACES OF MCC

MCC ALUMS SHARE FULL-CIRCLE JOURNEY FROM CLASS TO CAREER

For many Metropolitan Community College students, completing their associate degree is a stepping stone on a path that extends beyond the College. After graduation, they might move on to their first career, start a brand new one or continue their education at a four-year institution. Yet for some students, that next step finds them right back at MCC, joining the College to put their academic skills and the wisdom they gained as students to help others navigate the path to graduation. Take a look at just a few of the diverse array of MCC graduates who went full-circle and are now serving others within the MCC community.

TERESA HIER

MCC Assistant to Vice President of Student Affairs Associate of Arts – Administrative Services

“I began attending classes as a first-generation student at MCC upon graduating high school in 1987. Without a clear vision of my educational path, I found myself leaving college after only completing a few quarters. I realized over time, and after various jobs, that I needed to finish my associate degree with a program of study as an administrative assistant.

Graduating with an associate degree provided the opportunity to begin working in the banking and loan industry. As a residential mortgage originator, I reviewed credit reports for potential buyers. In doing so, I felt a responsibility to explain how student loans could have a negative impact on purchasing ability. This sense of responsibility guided me back to MCC, however, as an employee, versus a student.

I began working as a Federal Work Study associate at MCC in October 2014. This opportunity meant a great deal to me as I aspired to talk with students about the different methods of financing college such as through the Federal Work Study program.

In 2017, I was ready to expand my experience and service at MCC and began to serve as the assistant to the vice president for Student Affairs. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to be part of the College’s mission: To deliver relevant student-centered education to a diverse community of learners.”

SCOTT HENRY

MCC Automotive outreach specialist Associate of Applied Science - Business Management

“MCC contributed to my success in many ways. Class sizes at the College were appealing for a small-town kid from western Nebraska. I worked while I was in college, so the availability of day and night classes met my flexible work schedule. My instructors made me work for every grade, but helped me learn as a student and grow as a person. When I needed help with a lost book I could not afford to buy again, Student Services and William Dodd were able to help me with a loaner book to complete the class. Dodd gave me an opportunity to tutor other students, while he mentored to me on my path to an associate degree in business.

With the degree from MCC, I embarked on a career in management where I worked for more than 20 years. During this time, I went back to school to complete a bachelor’s degree in business.

My degree and experience at MCC allow me to inform students about the many career options in the automotive industry. I am also able to advise students on opportunities available to help with the cost of tuition. When I think about the education I received at MCC, I know that it influences my current role in a number of ways. It is through the classes that I took while at the College that I gained knowledge that I now use to recruit students, track enrollment and organize events. The skills learned throughout my coursework contribute to my own success as I guide students on their educational path.”

ERICA SCHWERY

MCC Records specialist Associate of Applied Science Legal Studies – Paralegal

“I began my career at MCC in 2018 as a Work Study student for two years, assisting the Records office with filing. For most, sifting through thousands of documents for hours a day, filing them into their corresponding folders is not an ideal task, but I absolutely loved it. At the end of the work study commitment, I joined the MCC team as a Records assistant.

During my time as an assistant, I regularly witnessed a close, committed team devoted to performing their duties accurately, efficiently and professionally for the benefit of all MCC students.

Additionally, my supervisors and colleagues consistently encouraged and supported my educational goals, creating a foundation of stability to explore the opportunities offered as a student without fear of repercussions.

After graduating, I knew I wanted to continue my career with the Records office and explore the possibilities to grow professionally.

Securing the Records specialist position a year ago, I am still learning so much about the intricacies of MCC policies and procedures. My knowledge continues to grow with each student interaction.

Every day as a unit, our department strives to maintain and enforce the policies and procedures vital to helping students meet their educational goals and begin their careers as confident, successful professionals. Understanding the measures we take to support students and each other makes me genuinely proud to say that I am a member of the MCC Records office.”

MCC academic advisor Liberal Arts Associate - Science Transfer

TONY CANTU

“MCC contributed to my career path when they hired me as a Student Services specialist. After my initial hire, the College provided an opportunity for growth. I have served at the MCC Express, in Financial Aid, Academic Affairs and eventually assumed my current role of academic advisor. In addition to being an advisor, I am an MCC Spanish instructor.

I use my experience as an MCC and University of Nebraska Omaha student to help our students understand their degree, course requirements, how to graduate and steps to transfer to a four-year college or university.”

TIFFANY JOHNSON

MCC Learning and Tutoring Center trainer Associate of Arts - Business Transfer

“When I began attending classes as a business student at MCC in 2009, I was immediately overwhelmed by the academic workload, particularly as a single parent. I found the curriculum to be very challenging, but rewarding. As a nontraditional student, I learned that it was necessary to connect with supportive services for additional assistance outside of the classroom. I was grateful for this support as it contributed to my ability to complete an associate degree, which ignited a passion for supporting student learning. Through the practical skills and knowledge that I apply in my current position as the MCC Learning and Tutoring Center trainer, I clearly connect my growth and career path to how these supportive areas of the College assisted me. In turn, I can now contribute to the decision making to help develop and foster students’ learning for their own academic success.”

JACQUIE WOODS

MCC planning associate for Secondary Partnerships Liberal Arts Associate - Science Transfer

“I grew up in the neighborhood around the MCC Fort Omaha Campus. My elementary school and Girl Scout troop collaborated on projects and events at MCC when I was young. I knew starting at MCC would likely be my path upon high school graduation; however, I was not sure. My high school counselor asked that I write an essay on why going to college was important to me and why I would be the first in my family to go to college. She submitted the essay for the Board of Governors Scholarship, and I was blessed with being awarded the scholarship. I chose to focus on general education courses until I figured out what I wanted to be when I ‘grew up.’ I knew I wanted to do something in education but just did not know what yet. I ultimately took time off from school when my father became ill, so I could help take care of him. After he passed, I knew he would want me to return to school and I enrolled to begin classes in the fall quarter in 2004. Before starting classes, I joined the MCC community that July as a member of Enrollment Management. While working, I took courses one at a time until I was able to earn my associate degree in 2006. Going to school and working at MCC has truly shown me what a great asset this institution is for our community and how lucky I am to be a part of it.

I have held several positions at MCC that have all been useful in learning the workings of the College. In my current role in Secondary Partnerships, I have stepped out of my comfort zone by delivering educational presentations to students throughout the community about MCC programs available to them while they are still in high school. I wish I had the same opportunity when I was in high school.”