Single father of a 9-year-old boy, Guy Bastien, of Tyngsboro, is proud to be back at 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 an example to him, someone who can relate to going to college. I let him know everything I do in class and at school.

Before starting to work in electronics, Bastien struggled with housing insecurity. Once he found his place, he was able to focus on long-term goals, including using state funding and support to return to college and complete his degree. Middlesex resources have helped him adjust to being a full-time student, including visiting the college’s food pantries where he can get healthy foods and connect with staff.

MCC’s TRIO Student Success program helps Bastien by providing one-on-one academic, career and personal counseling and making connections to the college. During his time in the program, he enjoyed going on field trips to learn more about his transfer options, including UMass Lowell and Southern New Hampshire University.

“I get a lot out of TRIO,” Bastien said. “The program helps me with personal development, professional training, and prepares me to have a network of people to work with once I graduate.” In particular, Rina (Tenore, MCC Senior Advisor for TRIO SSP) is a wonderful person. He is someone I can always talk to and who is very supportive.

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

“What I take away from college is that no one is forcing me to be here,” Bastien said. “I make the decision to wake up and leave, and when I talk to the teachers, there is a certain respect because they know I am an adult. It makes me realize that if I put myself in this position, I have to do what I have to do.

Although he takes a mix 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 his peers. His experiences at the club helped Bastien feel at home at MCC.

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

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

“Being in the MCC environment, the people and the college experience has been great,” he said. “I hadn’t been to school in a long time, but I wanted to go back and get my degree. Looking back, I realized how much I missed college in the beginning. Now that’s fun.