Born and raised in Poland, Ranno moved to Germany after graduation and lived there for nine years before relocating to the United States. Now, as a wife, mother, and college student, she is focused on transforming her multicultural background into a profession that will allow her to serve others across borders and languages.
“I plan to complete my bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with a focus on foreign languages, communication, and business,” she said. “After that, I want to pursue an MBA and pass the national exam to become an interpreter for German and Polish individuals. My ultimate goal is to work for the government.”
The road hasn’t always been easy. Returning to school after a 12-year gap—and doing so in a new country with a new language—brought its own challenges. “I often felt scared and doubted myself,” Ranno said. “I often questioned myself. ‘Will I be able to succeed in a different country with a different language? What if I’m not good enough?’ But once I started taking classes and met the amazing instructors at MGCCC, I realized that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.”
Her academic journey has included membership in Phi Theta Kappa’s Omicron Alpha Chapter and the Honors College, both of which gave her valuable connections and support. But her first step came from a moment of curiosity and courage. “One day, I was driving my daughter to school and saw a large MGCCC billboard. I thought about applying, but I wasn’t sure I’d even be accepted since I graduated many years ago—and from another continent. To my surprise, I was accepted.”
From there, things began to fall into place. “I met some amazing advisors who helped me find the right path for my career. Without their support, understanding all the regulations, choosing the right courses, and knowing how many credits I needed would have been extremely challenging. They are incredible in helping me discover my path.”
Now a proud MGCCC student, Ranno is clear about what the college has meant to her—and what she would tell others considering the same path. “Would I attend MGCCC again? Absolutely, yes! The great advisors and excellent programs made it my best decision yet.”
Multinational and multilingual, Ranno is proof that no matter where your journey begins, determination—and the right support—can take you anywhere.