Highlander Highlights

Grace Vanek began attending MCC in the Fall of 2024. Grace is pursuing a Veterinary Technology degree, with the goal of transferring to Tarleton State University in Stephenville or The University of Texas at Austin upon completion of her MCC coursework. Grace is a Presidential Scholar and a member of the Veterinary Technology student organization. “Besides the monetary aspect of paying for tuition, books, and fees, through this scholarship I have met lots of prominent people in the community and the state, and it has been cool to get to know them and hear their advice,” Grace said.

When asked about what sets MCC apart Grace mentioned, “At MCC, you have a name, instead of being known as a number like you would be at four- year universities or larger community colleges”. She also spoke about the professors at MCC, “We get to know the two professors on a more personal level- as opposed to a typical student-professor relationship,” Grace said.

When speaking about her experience, Grace reflected on the supportive professors, small class sizes, and opportunities at Highlander Ranch that MCC provides. “MCC's Veterinary Technology program is a hands-on program. As students, we practice our clinical skills on our resident animals; we have goats, horses, a donkey, a rabbit, and cats that live full-time at the program’s building,” Grace said.

Paulina Sidwell began working at MCC in 2012 as an adjunct instructor teaching Engineering and Mathematics, and shortly after transitioned into the role as a full-time Professor of Engineering. Sidwell was inspired to pursue a career in higher education due to her upbringing in a family of engineers and educators.

Paulina moved to Waco in 2012, where a friend mentioned that MCC’s engineering department—at the time consisting of just one professor, the amazing April Andreas—was looking for another instructor. Although she didn’t know much about MCC at the time, one visit to campus was all it took for her to apply. "I immediately fell in love with MCC’s campus. Everyone was so welcoming and kind. It’s hard to describe why, but this place just felt like home to me,” Sidwell said.

Sidwell, who has spent 13 years at MCC, has taught a variety of courses and reflected on her time working with students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the unique and valuable experiences each individual contributes to the MCC community. Regarding advice for current students, Sidwell encourages them to become familiar with the resources that MCC provides.

Sidwell also spoke about how a campus community is a vital part of a college student’s journey. “Feeling like you belong here can be a huge factor in student success. I hope all students have the chance to meet others who share their interests. I also strongly encourage students to take advantage of opportunities outside the classroom—whether it’s networking, extracurricular activities, or simply broadening their horizons," Sidwell said.

Sidwell was chosen as one of five honorees selected to receive the 2023 National Institute of Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Awards.