After taking a break, Jesalina Sabater, of Lowell, returned to Middlesex Community College in 2024 to continue her education. Attending Middlesex allowed Sabater to remain close to home while exploring her interests. Now pursuing a degree in paralegal studies, Sabater is benefitting from a combination of hands-on experiences and activities offered around campus.
“My overall experience at MCC has been truly gratifying,” Sabater said. “I liked the thought of attending MCC and staying involved in my own community. I am active everywhere I can be on-campus, and it has been so fulfilling to me. I really feel like I make a difference in my many positions and involvement.”
Always interested in the legal field, Sabater felt intimidated at the idea of going to law school. Family and friends guided her to use MCC’s paralegal studies program as a starting point. In addition to gaining a foundation of knowledge and skills in law, Sabater believes she can use the degree in many different cities and states.
As part of MCC’s paralegal studies program, Sabater gains a variety of networking and hands-on experiences. This includes an internship she looks forward to taking during her last semester. Led by Scot Gabriel, MCC’s Legal Studies, Paralegal Program Coordinator, Sabater’s favorite event is the annual Paralegal Career Night.
“Professor Gabriel brings in a couple experienced law professionals who talk about what led them to the legal field,” Sabater said. “So far since the beginning of the program, my classmates and I have been offered to attend paralegal conferences which are covered by the institution for us to be apart of.”
At Middlesex, Sabater is a Supplemental Instruction (SI) Leader for the Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE). Tutoring peers in statistics and writing, she is also a Blackboard Ambassador to help classmates navigate the online learning management system.
A member of MCC’s Student Government Association (SGA), Sabater also works as an Orientation Leader for the Office of Student Engagement to help new students get started at the college. In the Paul Sullivan Leadership in Action Program, she hones communication and professional skills, networks and collaborates with mentors, and participates in volunteer and philanthropy opportunities.
“By being engaged on campus, you open yourself up to opportunities down the road that you don't think of in the moment,” Sabater said. “You meet other faculty and staff who have the potential to write you letters of recommendation and you have access to so much support and resources that could be crucial for your safety, mental health and academic success. You meet like-minded students who share your interests and can provide lifelong friendship.”
Preparing to transfer to a four-year school, Sabater plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in law and politics. From helpful staff to supportive faculty, Middlesex is providing her with the resources, guidance and confidence to be set up for success.
“I found a home at MCC, and I believe every student who attends has the potential to feel the same way,” Sabater said. “So far in Fall 2025, I have spent every day on campus helping students and connecting with staff and I truly feel so rewarded after. My soul has found a place at MCC.”