MCC Daily Tribune

2026 Graduate Profile: Shacerie Rivera

As a member of the Class of 2026, Shacerie Rivera took some time to reflect on her journey. Her road to a degree in Human Services and Addictions Counseling from Springfield, Massachusetts, to MCC’s Downtown Campus.

“I chose MCC because I was a single mom at the time, relocating here from a very tough situation, and was looking for somewhere that I could start off my journey, get the support I needed while juggling many things, while trying to get through college to be better for my baby girl,” said Shacerie. “There have been ups and downs, and I dropped out of semesters a few times, but I finally did it!”

When asked if she would recommend MCC to others, Shacerie said, “MCC has been a game changer for me! It is a place where I felt supported and that I belonged!” She said it was the people, the staff, and the faculty that truly made a difference in her life.

If she could give advice to her younger self, Shacerie said to focus on having faith. “Never give up, because everything will be okay. I know it’s hard, and your upbringing was not easy. You never felt good enough, but you just have to keep going and do things right for yourself. You can’t save everyone!"

Shacerie’s journey is far from over. She got accepted to Nazareth University to continue her higher education. Her goal is to establish my own program for women struggling with substance use.

Image Caption: Shacerie has long, dark hair and is wearing a white sweater over a black top.

Attached Files:
Shacerie Rivera.jpg

Veronica Chiesi Brown
Community Relations
05/27/2026