Feeling isolated and without a sense of belonging at a previous college, Leng Lim transferred to Middlesex Community College in 2024. An international student from Cambodia and now living in Lowell, Lim found a supportive community in and outside of the classroom to help put him on the path to success in computer science. He is one of two graduation speakers representing the class of 2025 at MCC’s Commencement held on Thursday, May 22 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium.
“Being named a commencement speaker is one of the most meaningful honors of my life,” Lim said. “My journey at Middlesex taught me that strength is not something you start with, it is something you build. I learned the power of community, consistency, and showing up even when things feel impossible. I realized that leadership is not about having a title, it is about using your experiences to lift others up. And I discovered that belonging is not something you find, it is something you help create, for yourself and for the people around you. This moment is a reminder of how far I have come, and how powerful our stories can be when we decide to share them.”
Introduced to MCC by a friend, the college’s large Asian population of students, as well as variety of support services caught his attention and made him feel comfortable. Growing up in a developing country, education was difficult for Lim and his family to afford. Joining MCC allowed him to pursue his goals without worrying about the cost. Rather than start off at a four-year school, he decided that a community college was his best option.
“Making financial decisions is hard for me in a way,” Lim said. “Middlesex provided me with an affordable education and a welcoming environment. I also enjoy the smaller class sizes, how hands-on the learning experience is, and the availability of professors. These factors have allowed me to ask my professors more questions and engage better with my schoolwork.”
With a lifelong interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), Lim decided to pursue computer science for a career. While allowing him to problem solve and work in an ever-changing industry, he believes the field will offer him stability. He has took classes related to business administration, which he hopes to minor in at his future transfer institution.
To meet new people and enjoy the college experience, Lim joined a mix of clubs to explore his interests. A member of MCC’s Asian Studies in Alliance Club, he was also the Computer Science Club president where he coordinated student activities related to the field. Lim was also president of MCC’s chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society and was named to the 2025 PTK All-Massachusetts Team.
Recipient of the 2025 New England Transfer Association Scholarship (NETA) Jane Fain Scholarship, he plans to transfer to a four-year school. Hoping to dive further into his field, he looks forward to taking on internships and gaining work experience. In the future, he wants to start his own company.
At Middlesex, Lim maintained a 4.0 GPA and worked as a student employee in three jobs around campus. Offering students “many benefits,” Lim believes MCC provided him the skills, knowledge and support to get him started on his academic path.
“I am an international student from Cambodia who came to the U.S. with big dreams and no safety net,” Lim said. “All the information I studied and connections I have made has helped me thus far and I appreciate every experience. I did not just study at MCC, I showed up, I gave back, and I found a second home here.”