Interested in pursuing a career related to cars, Ratheksuchen Dy, of Lowell, decided to study mechanical engineering. Recommended to attend Middlesex Community College by his cousins, Dy found a community of support and a variety of hands-on experiences to set him up for success.
“[My experience at MCC] almost feels like some kind of dream,” Dy said. “I chose MCC because it is very diverse, with many opportunities, strong transfer agreements, and a welcoming community. I get to meet other people and learn about many different cultures.”
As an Orientation Leader, Dy helps new students navigate their time at Middlesex. A member of the International Club and A.S.I.A. Club, he is also part of the SUCCESS Scholars Program and Program for Asian American Student Advancement. Through these organizations, Dy participates in activities around campus to meet classmates, work with departments across the college, and receive guidance from staff.
The programs have also provided Dy with the opportunity to attend field trips and volunteer within the community. These experiences have allowed him to hone his communication skills and learn more about different perspectives and backgrounds. Representing MCC at events around Lowell, Dy has the chance to give back to the community and build relationships with others at the college.
“I enjoy being active because it makes campus life livelier and helps me connect with people,” Dy said. “I thought I was never part of anything when I started here. Talking to people was hard because I didn’t know them, and they didn’t know me. But coming to MCC, I get to enjoy my own culture with other people as well while learning about different ethnicities.”
In addition to his extracurriculars, Dy is taking the time to figure out his career path by pursuing his interests. Though he considered working in the business side of cars, he wanted to better understand how vehicles function on a scientific level. Studying mechanical engineering at Middlesex allows him to explore his passion while engaging in a broad and flexible field to keep his future options open.
As part of MCC’s program, Dy works hands-on in the classroom, using physics and engineering to design projects and make them work. One example includes a physics project he created to throw a ping pong ball one and a half feet away from 150 meters high. Professors such as John Smith help Dy develop the critical thinking and logic and reasoning skills he needs to put the theories he learns in his classes into action.
“The professors I’ve had so far – from my first semester into my second – have been supportive and encouraging,” Dy said. “They emphasize that making mistakes along the way is part of the learning experience, as long as you take responsibility, put in the work, and improve from them. Their focus is on progress, not perfection.”
MCC’s academic advisors have also assisted Dy on his journey. Talking through each step and being made aware of his options has made him feel more confident as he considers what to do after graduating from Middlesex. Planning to transfer to UMass Lowell, Dy looks forward to continuing to study mechanical engineering and believes MCC is providing him with a foundation of knowledge and support to get started.
“MCC has been preparing me well for this path,” he said. “The professors emphasize responsibility, action, and continuous improvement, which I believe will help me succeed in both my studies and future career.”