Olga Leticia Maya ’17
What have you been up to since graduation?
I married the love of my life and biggest supporter! Together, we run Dim the Lights Film Podcast and work as Digital Marketing Consultants for businesses in New Jersey.
What is one of your greatest achievements since graduating from MCC?
I had several job offers shortly after graduation—a position I had never imagined I’d be in so soon after finishing school. I am proud to say that I am now a part of Kislak Realty’s marketing team. I’m working in my field and love that I am utilizing both of my degrees.
What is your fondest memory of MCC?
My fondest memory of MCC would have to be a conversation I had with Professor Alane Poirier. I was two semesters into my Graphic Design degree and realized I fell in love with Photography more than I had expected. I decided to double major and remain at MCC for an extra semester. It was a defining moment in my career and one that could not have been possible without the advice from a professor who genuinely cared about my future after MCC.
What was your favorite place on campus, why?
I spent most of my time at MCC in the lower level of the Johnson Learning Center. All of my design and photography classes took place there. There were days I’d go downstairs in the morning and wouldn’t come back out until it was nighttime because I had classes and projects in between that needed to be completed. I hated it and yet I loved it. And it was my absolute favorite place on campus.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
I’d have to say my favorite professor was William Psolka. He was by far the most invested professor I ever had. He cared about each student’s individual learning experience while still listening to the needs of the class as a whole. We visited museums in his classes, had guest speakers, and were able to leave the classroom to photograph events and gain hands on experience. I also find myself saying, “Oh, I learned that in Bill’s class!” quite a bit now. That’s when you know that you were taught practical lessons that can be applied out in the real world.
If you could offer a current MCC student advice, what would it be?
Finish. Don’t transfer out before finishing your Associate’s degree. It’s tempting, but life happens and you may or may not get to finish your 4-year.
Why was attending MCC the right decision for you?
Three years ago, I moved to New Jersey to jumpstart my career in design. I was not able to afford out-of-state tuition at a university, so I “settled” for MCC. Along with moving, it was one of the best decisions I made that year. I was able to land a great full time job right out of MCC as well as work as a freelance portrait photographer.