My View: Embracing the promise of Mt. Hood Community College as we welcome the fall term

Published 11:57 am Monday, October 2, 2023

As the leaves change color and the air chills, students are embarking on a new academic journey — the beginning of the fall term at Mt. Hood Community College.

This time of year signifies not only a fresh start but also the perfect opportunity to reflect on the vital role that MHCC plays in our community.

Often underestimated and undervalued, MHCC is the unsung hero of higher education in our community, offering accessible and inclusive pathways to success for countless individuals.

Recently, MHCC gained recognition for its role in providing access to higher education. In WalletHub’s review of more than 650 community colleges, MHCC ranked fourth in the country this year in providing quality education at an affordable cost.

When combined with flexible schedules and diverse course offerings, MHCC is the educational bedrock of our local community.

Whether you are a recent high school graduate seeking a cost-effective way to start your college journey or an adult learner looking to upskill or change careers, MHCC is a smart investment.

From East Portland to Government Camp, Boring to Cascade Locks, MHCC welcomes students of all backgrounds, ages, and experiences. Many who thought a college education was financially out of reach find affordability at MHCC.

The lower tuition costs, coupled with various financial aid options, make higher education attainable.

This inclusivity strengthens our community by ensuring that opportunities for growth and development are not limited by income.

MHCC is also a hub of diversity, both in terms of student demographics and academic offerings.

The student body is a mosaic of cultures, experiences, and perspectives, creating a rich learning environment that mirrors our community.

In an MHCC classroom, you might sit next to a recent immigrant, an aspiring semiconductor technician seeking practical skills, and a returning veteran looking to transition into a civilian career.

This diversity fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas and cultivates cultural competence — an essential skill for the 21st century.

In addition to affordability and diversity, MHCC offers a cost-effective way to complete general education requirements for a transfer degree to a university and programs that prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce.

All programs are tailored to the needs of local industries, and this alignment ensures students graduate with skills that are in demand. Whether you aspire to become a nurse, a computer programmer, or an electrician, MHCC equips you with the practical knowledge and training required to excel in your chosen field.

In follow-up surveys with graduates, 87 percent report being employed six months after graduation, a testament to the quality of education this institution provides.

MHCC opened its doors 57 years ago to serve as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to higher education and career success for all who seek it.

As we kick off this fall term, let’s remember the boundless possibilities that MHCC offers to students young and old, reminding us that education is a lifelong journey worth embarking on.

At MHCC, we are proud to serve as your Community’s College, and be the path to higher education and career success for all who seek it.

Let us remember the boundless possibilities that MHCC offers to students young and old, reminding us that education is a lifelong journey worth embarking upon.