Highlander Highlights

Mathew Ruggieri is a first-year student at MCC. He chose MCC because of its affordability, close proximity to home, and the great academic programs! His major is currently undeclared but he is interested in studying either film or business in the future. Mathew has also considered attending flight school after graduation to earn his pilots license to potentially pursue a career in aviation. Outside of school, Mathew is a videographer, spends lots of time at the gym, and participates in triathlons and beekeeping.

“MCC is fantastic. I really appreciate how the professors go the extra mile to help students out and you get to know them over the course of the year. I also really enjoy the atmosphere of campus, everyone is super friendly and the campus is beautiful.

A word of advice for other students is to not be afraid to seek out additional opportunities to make the most of your college experience, whether that's getting involved with a club or attending baseball games with friends.”

Emma began working at MCC in 2021 as a doctoral intern in Student Engagement. She is a doctoral candidate in the Higher Education Studies & Leadership PhD program at Baylor University. Emma chose to work at MCC during her studies as an opportunity to learn about two different types of higher education institutions.

“My favorite thing about MCC is the people. From Day 1, I was encouraged to explore my own interests and passions to shape my role around who I am as a scholar and professional. Everyone I've met has such incredible pride about attending and/or working for MCC. It's truly a culture that cares for employees and students—which in turn allows us all to thrive and reinvest in the college. I also love all the energy here. The students are passionate about the things they're involved in, and it's so exciting to be part of an institution that loves to say, 'Yes, let's make it happen.' It helps all of us to dream big and pursue the common good for those around us."

As for current students, Emma advises them to be open to learning new things about themselves, their peers, and the world around them.

“College is a clean slate—a perfect opportunity to shed layers of the past and try on new identities. College is a place where your beliefs will be challenged, and it's best to hold things with a loose grip. One thought leader describes it as having your beliefs written in pencil rather than in ink. That way, as you meet new people, take classes, and invest in opportunities, you can erase and refine what you believe about yourself, others, and the world. If you come into college with beliefs written in ink, you'll have a really hard time navigating the environment and your peers' perspectives in the classroom. You never know what incredible opportunities will come your way as you open yourself up to all that is possible!”