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Bergen Community College student Isabela Marina Pena Tavarez is studying business administration with the goal to work in the health administration field.
Pena Tavarez, of Hackensack, chose Bergen because the College was recommended by a relative, is in a convenient location, and is a great place to begin her professional journey.
As an international student, Pena Tavarez said she encountered barriers due to a cultural shift, but was met with supportive professors. “From the beginning, when I had just arrived in the United States, they showed patience and understanding as I was adapting to the education system,” said Pena Tavarez. “They were empathetic of the language barriers and genuinely interested in my success.”
She also received support from Bergen’s International Student Center (ISC), which has professional staff and counselors to assist all of the College’s international students. “They provided assistance in processing necessary documents, exams and other aspects to start my studies at Bergen effectively,” she said. She also attributes much of her academic success to the Cerullo Learning Assistance Center for helping her study and understand course material.
Pena Tavarez is also a member of the Model United Nations, where she improved her writing and public speaking skills. “I have also built valuable connections with people interested in international affairs and resolving global challenges,” said Pena Tavarez. “The club has an inspirational committee of women leaders who are passionate and experienced in the Model United Nations while serving as great mentors.”
“Organizing my time, having clear priorities, and focusing on my goals made me successful,” said Pena Tavarez.
Pena Tavarez expects to graduate in 2024.
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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