Return to MCC Allowed Grad to Pursue Dreams

After graduating from high school in 1999, Alicia Sirmopoulos, of Littleton, started her journey at Middlesex Community College. She decided to take a break from school to raise her son, but always thought about returning. Coming back to Middlesex to study human services, she found a community of support that helped her get on track to reach her goals of graduating and pursuing a career she loves.

“I am proud of myself for taking the risk and coming back to continue my education,” Sirmopoulos said. “I think it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Knowing that my son sees me working so hard toward my goals and a better life for us is hopefully inspiring to him and shows him how far hard work and perseverance can get you. I have really enjoyed my time here at MCC and the school really lives up to the community aspect in the name.”

Sirmopoulos chose to return to Middlesex because of her previous positive experience and the affordable options available. In MCC’s human services program, she studied a versatile field that offers a variety of jobs. Learning a lot about human behavior and the issues people face in her classes, she feels prepared for her future career.

The human services field also allows Sirmopoulos to combine her love of being a mother with her passion for helping others. With a goal of one day becoming a social worker, she wants to assist children who have experienced challenges in their lives. Building on her empathy and desire to do good, she has developed skills in the classroom to be successful in this role.

“I decided to come back to school to pursue a career where I help others and make a difference,” Sirmopoulos said. “It is something that I had wanted to do for a long time. I have always wanted a meaningful career. I am a natural nurturer and kind and welcoming, and I think my authenticity and personality will be a great comfort for these children in the difficult time they are experiencing.”

To ease her return to Middlesex, Sirmopoulos found support in the college’s faculty and staff, resources and opportunities. As a first-generation student, programs such as TRIO provided her with guidance and connected her with people to answer any questions she had. Having a place to go to for help provided her with a more stress-free environment to focus on her studies.

The activities MCC hosted also allowed Sirmopoulos to enjoy her time as a student. While at Middlesex, she was a member of the Business, International, Prism, LatinX Force, Asian Students in Alliance and African Cultural Clubs. Participating in the Commonwealth Honors Program, Sirmopolous was part of MCC’s chapters of the Phi Theta Kappa national honors society for two-year schools, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and Student Government Association.

“I have participated in so many events and activities during my time here,” Sirmopoulos said. “I really like the wide variety of clubs and organizations. They are welcoming and inclusive to everyone. I have enjoyed these experiences including the chance to meet new people, experience new things, and go to new places.”

Graduating from MCC in May 2026, Sirmopoulos will transfer to a four-year school to earn a bachelor’s in social work. This summer, she is completing her first internship in the human services field. Her love of learning and being a student was inspired by her time at MCC where she believes she built a foundation for her future.

“I have learned so much and have grown so much as a person,” she said. “I have had many new experiences and have forced myself to leave my comfort zone many times, which has helped me grow and evolve. I will use this knowledge and apply it to my classes in my next school and in my internship over the summer.”