We recently caught up with Director of Outreach and Recruitment Kate Stano for an inside look at QCC’s Admissions department. This energetic group gets to share the best of QCC with our community while helping folks decide what direction to take their learning in order to accomplish their goals.
“We’re here and we’re available,” Stano said. “Everybody who works here is very accessible and invested in student success. We want to see students reach their fullest potential.”
When the Admissions staff is spreading the word about the college or talking to a new student, they make sure to highlight QCC’s high-quality programming, the multitude of entry points including degree and certificate programming, workforce development and adult basic education, as well as the robust network of support services.
The many support systems at QCC are a particular point of admiration for Stano, who has seen a lot throughout her over two decades in higher education. QCC, however, is her first stint at a community college. Stano started at the college in May of 2023.
“It was a refreshing change of pace. We are directly helping students with their immediate circumstances and are very in tune with the needs of the community,” Stano stated.
While the department focuses on people who are considering college, Stano noted that Admissions Open House events are a great opportunity for current students as well. Open Houses can be helpful for students in General Studies who are considering a new program because there's a large faculty presence. Existing students are also reminded of the variety of student services and student life opportunities.
Admissions has been on the frontlines of promoting MassReconnect and MassEducate, the state’s recent programs that have made community college free for qualified students. According to Stano, it’s been a positive experience and removes a huge barrier for many people.
“It’s a wonderful thing we’ve seen, when people realize it’s free and then to watch their face change when the lightbulb goes off. It’s life-changing for a lot of people who are taking advantage of it. And it’s been great to see an even more diverse and wider array of students,” she shared.
For Stano, the Admissions department is part of a much bigger picture.
“I feel passionately that education is a revolutionary act,” Stano commented, adding, “The more the country and the state do to make it accessible and affordable will only serve to benefit our community with a workforce-ready populace.”
Department Info
Location: The second floor of the Harrington Learning Center (HLC). Students should check in at the Welcome Desk.
Number of Employees: One director, three recruiters, four admissions counselors and one clerk.
Basic Functions and Services Offered: Guiding students through the point of acceptance, which includes recruiting at college fairs, high schools and community events, as well as counseling potential and current students on QCC’s academic programs and offerings.
What is the mission of the Admissions Department?
The mission of the QCC Office of Admissions is to promote educational pathways to the central Massachusetts community by providing program information relative to individual and academic and career goals. The department recruits and counsels students through the application and enrollment process to begin or resume their academic journey. The staff engage with and educate the community through counseling, recruitment events, and local outreach.
What is the best way for students, staff and faculty to get in touch with Admissions?
Email admissions@qcc.mass.edu, call 508.854.2300 or stop by the office 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Friday.