Elysium O’Malley came to Greenfield Community College with clear goals: to get a head start on higher education and to challenge himself beyond the traditional high school environment. Through GCC’s Dual Enrollment program, a program that allows high school students to earn college credit while completing their high school requirements, Elysium has found both opportunity and a strong sense of belonging.

“It’s been very good, I love the community,” says Elysium. A feeling of connection has been a defining part of his time on campus, shaping both his academic and personal growth.

Elysium is deeply involved in campus life and has taken on several leadership roles. He is a peer mentor, an orientation leader and a leader in the Tabletop Games Club. Through these roles, he has found meaningful ways to connect with others. “I love meeting everyone and helping the community,” he shares.

Transitioning from sophomore-level high school classes to college-level coursework was not without its challenges. Elysium acknowledges that the academic jump was difficult at first, but perseverance and support helped him succeed. That experience has strengthened his confidence and prepared him for future academic pursuits.

Elysium says that the student support resources and the encouragement to use them have played a key role in his success. For students considering GCC, his advice is practical: “Use the supports. They are here to help!”

Looking ahead, Elysium plans to continue his education with aspirations of becoming a journalist. Motivated by a desire to inform and help others, he sees his time at GCC as a critical stepping stone. “GCC provided me with a pathway to my future I wouldn’t have had.”