Womanhood in a Room: Transitions/Transiciones

As a writing tutor at MHCC, my role has always been to support students in improving their writing and assist those learning English.

My responsibilities have also evolved into something more personal: I have found myself helping Arabic-speaking women navigate complex paperwork and address serious life challenges – issues such as abuse, insurance problems, and job struggles – that they often have no one else to turn to for help.

This shift in my duties has led me to uncover a hidden resource at MHCC: the Transitions/Transiciones programs, while making me reflect on the overall lack of support these women face within the school system, and elsewhere.

These dedicated programs at MHCC support women who have struggled to start or return to school by helping them plan for their careers and prepare for college.

They offer a space where students can find support, develop career goals, learn about college resources, build connections with mentors and peers, and gain essential life skills like time management and study techniques. Students are also guided in applying for financial aid and excelling in their careers.

I talked to some of the staff and participants in the Transitions/Transiciones program. Some were mothers with their babies, trying to get back on track with their lives, while other students had just graduated high school but lacked strong support.

Despite these challenges, they came in and advocated for themselves, committed to become college students instead of quitting their jobs or giving up on their education.

This is not the description found online or in posters. My experience at the Transitions program felt like “womanhood in a room” – a warmth and community that was truly different from anywhere else. At Mt. Hood I have worked in AVID, the Student Union, and various other places, but the sense of support here is unique.

If you are a woman, no matter your race or background, stop by. Ask for help. Being a woman is hard. Being a mother is hard. Going back to school is hard. But also, if you know someone who might be struggling, encourage them to seek help.

You may not always see the challenges others face, but sometimes the support they need is just a conversation away.

This program is ready to support you, and others, too – not just in education, but in your personal lives. Education is important, and the program staff are here to help you get the support you need.

Transitions/Transiciones: Room AC1002 (south end of Main Mall)

Phone: 503-491-7680

Website: https://mhcc.edu/campus-life/multicultural-diversity-resource-center/transitions-transiciones/index

Mary Nashed