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With a Love for Science and Sociology, Mackenzie Rider ’21 Charts a Unique Path of Her Own

As a first-year student, Mackenzie Rider started her career at Õý°ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÙÍø as a biology major, with the goal of studying dental medicine. But soon, the commuter student from Attleboro discovered a broader journey at the College, filled with the exploration of new interests, opportunities, and experiences. She found a new passion in sociology, and now as a double major has forged forward with as many of her interests as possible.

“I never thought about what more I might want to do outside of dental medicine until I came to Õý°ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÙÍø. Professor Amanda Kenney’s excitement while teaching was the first time, I considered sociology as a potential career field, and by my second class with her, I declared it as my major. My professors and advisor have helped me discover and develop new interests and connect my love for science and working with people.”

From leading and presenting sociological research at industry conferences to serving as a Chemistry lab assistant, peer-tutor and mentor, and an officer in the Pre-Health E.L.I.T.E. club, Mackenzie has uniquely integrated her passions for both the social and medical world, setting herself up for success in her future career. “I love working as a sociologist and working with people. I believe this is a field that I could combine my love of patient interaction as well as my love for learning and expanding my knowledge through research.”

With a knack for science and passion for helping others, it wasn’t long before she began tutoring first-year students and other underclassmen struggling with chemistry, biology, or math. Mackenzie also serves as a lab assistant to aid faculty with preparations and helping students understand the fundamentals of experiments.

“The best part about being a tutor is watching someone go from frustrated and stressed to confident. It is incredibly uplifting to know that someone I help is doing better in class due to the time I spend encouraging and working with them. I also love the connections I make with fellow students as I can mentor them through their upcoming courses and answer any College questions that they may need help sorting through. I enjoy being an extra resource for others and helping them in any way that I can.”

This summer, the senior is working at Smiles and More Dental as a dental assistant and after graduating hopes to pursue a graduate program in social work or clinical counseling.