Ocean County College OceanViews Magazine 2026 Summer-Fall - Flipbook - Page 26
ALUMNI ON THE MOVE
MARY-CLAIRE
CAPP ’22
When Mary-Claire Capp decided to follow a lifelong dream to further
her education, it was her mother’s advice that pointed her toward
Ocean County College. A simple call to the admissions office quickly
got the ball rolling, and Mary-Claire went on to earn her Associate in
Science degree from OCC and a bachelor’s degree from Kean Ocean.
Now a proud member of the OCC alumni family, she believes that the
benefits of graduating from OCC will assist her throughout her life.
Here, in her own words, Mary-Claire tells us her story.
“I was 50 years old when I attended my first class, and I had not had
college experience since 1990. Due to family circumstances, I could
not complete my degree, which had been a lifelong dream of mine.
I began working in the admissions department at Katharine Gibbs
School. I acquired marketing skills in this role that served me well
for the next two decades. I later worked for Oracle Corporation in the
Education Division and eventually became the Director of Admissions
for Berkeley College. Throughout my career, I encouraged others to
pursue their aspirations through higher education.
“One day, my mom asked me what I would do if I could do anything. I
told her I would love to be a student again and further my education.
The next day, I reached OCC, and the admissions department was
incredibly supportive and efficient, helping me enroll in my first class!
I was excited but nervous, venturing into something new.
“My experience with OCC was terrific. I was able to dive into classes
that stimulated my interests. Additionally, I built on the experience I
had gained at work, making my learning journey all the more dynamic
and fulfilling. OCC was a custom fit and a springboard for future
endeavors. OCC’s relationship with Kean University made transitioning to a four-year institution effortless.
“I am excited to share that I have been accepted and am currently
enrolled in graduate school at Rutgers University. Rutgers awarded
ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS:
Ocean County College is
just a phone call away.
They were there for me;
they will be there for you, too!
– Mary-Claire Capp
me a scholarship based on my academic achievements, which include
a 3.99 GPA from Ocean’s partnership with Kean University and the
writing skills I developed during my studies at Ocean County College.
This sense of exuberance reminds me of when I first enrolled at Ocean.
26 Summer-Fall 2026
“To help alleviate any financial concerns, I have accepted a position
as a substitute teacher as I embark on this exciting journey. I am also a
caregiver for my mom, who courageously battles Parkinson’s Disease.
Additionally, I am taking summer courses at Harvard through their
Professional and Lifelong Learning program. The sky is the limit!”
