MCC’s first-ever Latino Family Night a success
Thursday / March 10, 2016
The panel members each talk about their experiences as a Latino student at MCC.
Over 75 people attended the inaugural Latino Family College Planning Night hosted by Marshalltown Community College last Sunday. The MCC staff was pleased with the turnout and the success of the event, and hopes to host more of these in the future.
Latino Family Night focused on informing the Latino community about MCC and breaking down the barriers to higher education opportunities.
“Many of the parents realized that we weren’t just speaking to their child about college—we were speaking to them as well,” says Valerie Ruiz, MCC Student Success Specialist and coordinator of the event. “Many adults were inspired to take ESL classes or begin their journey towards a degree at MCC.” Ruiz noted that some attendees even applied to MCC during the event.
The audience had the opportunity to hear current and former Latino students talk about their experiences at MCC. The student panel consisted of a traditional student, non-traditional (adult) student, MCC graduate, and an international student. The event also touched on the admissions process, financial aid, DACA/DAPA, ESL courses, and the Educational & Training Center.
Estrella Duffy, senior at East Marshall High School, receives $500 scholarship on Sunday.
Janette Avila-Leon, senior at East Marshall High School, receives $500 scholarship on Sunday.
Three students received $500 scholarships at the end of the night: Ben Heckner, junior at Marshalltown High School; Janette Avila-Leon, senior at East Marshall High School; and Estrella Duffy, senior at East Marshall High School.