Andrea Siemaszko

International Development

Andrea Siemaszko credits QCC for helping her choose her path in life, to work for human rights and justice both in her own community and around the world.

She was originally pre-med and was attending college in Florida, but wasn’t sure being a doctor was what she wanted. She returned to Worcester, she had attended high school in nearby Dudley, and decided to attend QCC to gain core credits while deciding what to do. She was then able to transfer to Clark University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in International Development. She said she was able to explore how working through business and industry can help disadvantaged populations internationally.

While at QCC, she was involved in Phi Theta Kappa, Future Leaders Club and Student Senate, as well as being a student mentor and biology tutor.

“If it wasn’t for QCC, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” she said. “I was able to gain a stronger academic background while not sacrificing financially. I was also able to network and build my resume, which allowed me to get scholarships to attend Clark University.”

She has been able to travel, working in Botswana doing research about HIV and AIDS and traveling and working with different populations in South Africa, Guatemala and Haiti. She has worked with the Seven Hills Global Outreach Program as well.

She now works in international development with Mansfield Holding Group and is also working on her master’s degree in Community Development and Planning.

A native of Venezuela, Ms. Siemaszko moved to Worcester at age 8, and then to Dudley when she was 9. She is bilingual and works with the Latino community in Worcester, through her involvement with the Latino English Institute and works to prevent youth violence.

She has been the recipient of many awards both at QCC and beyond including Women of Distinction, Dean’s list, and a PTK Scholarship. She also received the 2010 Meridith Wesby Award from the United Way, an award presented to a young woman who serves the community and is a role model.