Nery Hernandez, of Littleton, is passionate about helping others. Holding a bachelor’s degree in business administration and as a homemaker for her family, she gained experience creating positive environments for the people around her. Looking for a fresh start, she enrolled in Middlesex Community College’s hospitality management certificate to apply her strengths toward a new career.
“I saw this program as the perfect opportunity to combine my professional background with my passion for customer service and to re-enter the workforce in a meaningful way,” Hernandez said. “MCC offers a program that truly prepares students for the hospitality industry while also providing guidance, mentorship, and encouragement for personal and professional growth.”
Hernandez picked MCC’s program because of the college’s strong reputation for helping students succeed. Providing a supportive learning environment, Hernandez appreciates Middlesex’s focus on teaching professionalism and customer service. Hernandez is also learning more about hospitality operations and management services.
Both in her coursework and outside of the classroom, Hernandez receives practical, real-world opportunities at MCC. In addition to preparing her to start a new job, her projects and conversations are developing her teamwork, communication and problem-solving abilities – all skills she believes are important to working in the field.
“These experiences help bridge the gap between theory and practice,” Hernandez said. “They allow me to better understand industry expectations, develop professional confidence, and apply what I learn in real-world scenarios. This preparation is essential for building a successful career in hospitality.”
One of these real-world opportunities is the MCC Hospitality and Culinary Arts Mentor Program. Made up of alumni from the college, members of the advisory board discuss their personal and professional experiences with Hernandez and her classmates. Hernandez can speak to a mentor one-on-one and ask questions, as well as participate in events throughout the semester to learn about the different work options available to her.
“My experience with the mentorship program has been very positive,” Hernandez said. “It has provided guidance, encouragement, and valuable insights into the hospitality industry. Having mentors who share their experiences and advice has helped me feel more confident about my career path.”
In MCC’s hospitality management certificate, Hernandez also benefits from working with supportive and knowledgeable professors. By hearing about their own experiences in the industry and offering guidance, Hernandez believes the faculty members care about her success at and beyond her time at Middlesex.
After completing her certificate, Hernandez plans to directly enter the hospitality workforce. Hoping to grow in the field, she wants to continue her education to pursue an associate degree. At Middlesex, she is building upon the skills she gained working as an assistant manager in the past to develop her leadership, organization, and customer service skills.
“I am deeply passionate about customer service and hospitality because it allows me to help and care for others every day,” she said. “MCC has played an important role in helping me pursue my goals and believe in my future within hospitality management.”