A United States veteran, Ricky Thyne came to Middlesex Community College because the college is close to his home in Lowell. Though he was hesitant in the beginning, he found a supportive environment with a variety of resources and guidance at Middlesex. MCC is also providing him the opportunity to explore and hone his strengths as he pursues his academic and professional goals.
“MCC is actively building the foundational base in which I will later capitalize on to reach heights I once deemed unfeasible,” Thyne said. “So far, my Middlesex experience has been fruitful. I have received useful advice for my current professional development, have been assisted with making gigantic leaps in my education, and the friendly faces keep me excited to come back each day.”
From his first academic advising appointment at Middlesex, Thyne experienced a high level of care and communication. Grateful for the confidence MCC faculty and staff have shown in him, he finds their belief in him to be motivating. Professor Virginia Drislane in particular, has made a positive impact on his experience.
MCC’s Veterans Resource Center (VRC) has also offered Thyne assistance, including navigating his GI bill benefits. Calling the VRC a “safe haven,” he credits Josue Nunez, MCC’s Director of Veterans & Military Affairs, for creating a positive, inviting and informational space on-campus. Building these connections and learning from others is one of the best parts about the college for Thyne.
“Ask a veteran-peer about their experiences and what they have learned from those as a result,” Thyne said. “Their answers may help grasp a new understanding of the world and society around you. MCC has a close-knit community of people who genuinely care, cherish that and do not take these resources for granted.”
For MCC’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE), Thyne became an embedded peer tutor for Professor Drislane’s critical thinking course, as well as an ACE writing tutor. Interested in activities around campus, Thyne is a member of the Psychology Club and Christian Club.
In the Fall, Thyne attended MCC’s event featuring Susie Jaramillo, an Emmy-nominated director, artist, entrepreneur and co-founder of the children’s show “Encantos.” After the presentation, he participated in a Q&A session where students asked questions, received relevant advice, and made a networking connection on LinkedIn.
“Being active and open to events on campus can have a great impact on your experience here,” Thyne said. “You never know who you might meet or what you may receive from participating in MCC events.”
When first coming to Middlesex, Thyne considered studying communication. Recent events, his faith, and family history led to an interest in psychology, which he is now pursuing. In his classes, Thyne enjoys gaining a more detailed and clear understanding of human behavior and patterns, as well as how the brain functions.
This summer, Thyne hopes to secure a summer internship as a residential mental health counselor/behavioral health technician. The company assists adults with brain injuries and addiction history. After graduating from MCC, he plans to transfer to a four-year school to continue on this path to earn a bachelor’s degree in social work.
“My life thrives on purpose, and mine is to aid those who struggle mentally, economically, and specifically with addiction,” he said. “Everyone deserves to have someone in their corner and the opposite has become too common. Hopefully I can be a part of a positive shift in people’s lives through some form of social work or counseling.”