Bergen Community College student Chennelle Brown is studying nursing to become a neonatal nurse practitioner.
Brown, of Bergenfield, said she chose Bergen because it has one of the best nursing programs in New Jersey. “Its’ acceptance rate of international students such as myself is another factor that made me choose to come here,” said Brown.
At Bergen, Brown joined a variety of student clubs and organizations, including the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, which also distributes various scholarships to student members. “Being an international student, I wanted to make sure I got as much help as possible to make my dreams come true,” said Brown.
She later took on the leadership position of PTK President because she loves the honor society and wanted to develop her leadership skills.
Brown became a Turning Point Program Mentor and Center for Adult Transition Fellow. “I took up these roles because I wanted to be able to fund my tuition and living expenses as an international student, but during my time there, I have learned how to help people with disabilities more and learned to appreciate diversity and inclusivity,” she said.
Along with being a student leader, Brown is also a member of the Black Student Union, Caribbean Club and Diva Girls Club, all of which she was connected to via the Office of Multicultural Services and Activities.
Brown is also a Pretty Little Ladies Ambassador for Nu Delta Phi Leadership Society, Incorporated, a program dedicated to supporting female students of color to success.
“The connections and my determination have made me successful at Bergen Community College,” said Brown.
Brown expects to graduate in 2026.
Based in Paramus, Bergen Community College (www.bergen.edu), a public two-year coeducational college, enrolls more than 13,000 students at locations in Paramus, the Philip Ciarco Jr. Learning Center in Hackensack and Bergen Community College at the Meadowlands in Lyndhurst. The College offers associate degree, certificate and continuing education programs in a variety of fields. More students graduate from Bergen than any other community college in the state.
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