Middlesex Community College: Graphic Design Student Pursuing Her Dreams At Middlesex CC

Press release from the Middlesex Community College:

Caitlin Buckley

2/24/2022

Before Isabella Angelucci, of Pepperell, started at Middlesex Community College, she was hesitant about studying as an art major because she was told she would make more money in a health or STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) field.

Angelucci followed her heart and enrolled in MCC’s Graphic Design program instead.

“There are so many great careers within the art fields, ones that make great money too,” she said. “Shouldn’t you be doing what makes you truly happy?”

Her courses at MCC have not only showed her that she can pursue a stable career in the arts, but are also honing her talents and creativity to be successful in the field long-term. While lectures teach her the knowledge she will need to advance in her major, practicing with programs such as Adobe Creative Cloud is providing her with the skills she will be using throughout her career.

Another valuable benefit of MCC’s Graphic Design program for Angelucci is having the opportunity to create and share projects with her professors and classmates. While she takes inspiration from others’ work, she is also learning how to give and take constructive criticism to improve and finesse her designs.

“I really enjoy being exposed to so many creative people,” Angelucci said. “It opens up my eyes to all the different styles and types of art that exist in the world.”

The program is also teaching her how to present her work – something she did not have much experience doing before starting at Middlesex. Sharing her work has given her a lot of confidence and also “encourages me to put my artwork out in the world.”

“The professors are always pushing you and your creativity,” she said. “And you can really see the growth of skills made throughout each semester.”

One of the Middlesex professors who has impacted her so far is Angela Ales. In her online Drawing and 2D Design classes, Ales has helped Angelucci’s art to “mature and grow.” Ales also introduced her to Lowell Western Avenue Studios where Angelucci has had the chance to network with local artists and witness active professionals at work in the field.

Angelucci believes it is these opportunities and the flexibility that Middlesex affords to students that has allowed her to be successful. Being able to take online classes, building her own schedule, and offering affordable tuition has given her a lot of freedom – a difference she has gotten used to after graduating from high school and leaving behind a more set schedule.

“My experience has been great so far,” Angelucci said. “It’s a bit different from the typical college experience since I’m not on campus much, but I’ve been able to make some amazing connections with some of the people around campus and have been able to obtain a flexible schedule that allows me to take care of myself.”

Although Angelucci is still considering her next steps, she is planning to transfer to a four-year college after graduating from MCC with her associate degree in Spring 2023. She hopes to continue studying Graphic Design and complete her bachelor’s degree. Middlesex gave her the chance – and the tools she will need – to pursue a career in the arts.

“Make sure you’re willing to put a lot of time and effort into your work,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to stand out!”

Part of the Arts and Humanities pathway, the Graphic Design program at MCC helps students go into – and succeed in – the workforce or transfer to four-year schools with its award-winning and affordable offerings, small class sizes and flexible schedules. For more information, visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/discover/dyp_artshum.aspx to discover a path to a career in Graphic Design at Middlesex.

Get a jumpstart on summer and fall plans by registering now for MCC’s Spring 2022 Mini-mester II – an accelerated eight-week session that offers the same content, academic standards and instructional hours as courses scheduled during the traditional 15-week semester.

MCC’s Spring 2022 Mini-mester II starts on Monday, March 28. For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 to register.

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in education for more than 50 years. Middlesex puts the student first. Meeting each learner where they are, MCC provides them with a safe, welcoming and engaging place to learn. Offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses – Middlesex features flexible course formats and a variety of award-winning student support services and resources. Student success starts at MCC!

This press release was produced by the Middlesex Community College. The views expressed here are the author’s own.