A single father of a 9-year-old boy, Guy Bastien, of Tyngsboro, is proud to be back in school. Combining his knowledge from previous college-level courses with his professional experience in electronics manufacturing, Bastien came to Middlesex Community College to study electrical engineering.

“It means a lot to my son to see me go back to school,” Bastien said. “Once I had my son, everything changed, including my outlook on life. I’m a role model for him, someone he can relate to in college. I told him everything I do in classes and at school.”

Before he started working in electronics, Bastien struggled with housing insecurity. Once he found his footing, he was able to focus on long-term goals, including using state funding and support to return to college and earn his degree. Resources at Middlesex have helped him adjust to being a full-time student, such as visiting college food pantries where he can get healthy food and connect with staff.

The MCC TRIO Student Success Program assists Bastien with one-on-one academic, career and personal counseling and building college connections. During the program, he enjoyed taking field trips to learn more about his transfer options, including UMass Lowell and Southern New Hampshire University.

“I get a lot out of TRIO,” said Bastien. “The program helps with self-development, professional and career training and prepares me to have a network of people to work with when I graduate. In particular, Rina (Tenore, MCC Senior Advisor to TRIO SSP) is a great person. He’s someone I can talk to anytime and he’s very supportive.”

Bastien also cites Professor Leonardo Nin as having a positive impact on his time at MCC. In his Ethics and Society class, Bastien found Nin engaging, putting him at ease, leading interesting conversations and motivating him to participate. In many of his college-level courses, Bastien appreciates the tone his professors set for class expectations.

“What I get from college is that no one is forcing me to be here,” Bastien said. “I decide to get up and go, and when I talk to the teachers, there’s a level of respect because they know I’m an adult. It makes me aware that if I put myself in this position, I have to do what I have to do.”

Although he takes a combination of on-campus and online classes, Bastien remains involved in community activities. In addition to attending TRIO-related events, he joined the African Cultural Club to connect with peers. His experiences at the club helped Bastien feel like he belonged at MCC.

“Everyone I’ve met is friendly,” he said. “I enjoy participating and meeting people from different cultures in the club. I enjoy being with people of all ages and backgrounds.”

After graduating, Bastien plans to transfer to UML to study electrical and mechanical engineering. His ultimate ultimate goal is to one day own an electronics manufacturing company. MCC helps him start his dreams.

“Being around the MCC environment, the people and the college experience was great,” he said. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been in school, but I wanted to go back and get my degree. Looking back, I realize how much I missed college in the beginning. Now, it’s fun.”