Bergen Community College

Bergen Community College student Kimberly Guaman is studying biology with the goal to become a dentist.

Guaman, of Hackensack, chose Bergen because it is a welcoming environment close to her home. She joined the women’s soccer team at Bergen because the sport has always been a significant part of her life. “Being part of the team has helped me become more productive and aware of who I am,” said Guaman.

“One of my favorite aspects of being a student-athlete is the opportunity to meet new people while pushing myself both mentally and physically,” she said. 

When asked what makes her successful at Bergen, Guaman said it was her family, citing they told her that college is not just about earning a degree, but also going on a journey of personal growth. 

She also credits her success to Bergen faculty including Professor Bernadett Szasz, who teaches biology and horticulture. “Professor Szasz has been incredibly supportive and understanding of the challenges that come with balancing academics and athletics,” said Guaman. “When I couldn’t attend class due to games or practice, she made time to help me catch up and fully grasp the lessons.”

“My success at Bergen Community College was shaped by the support of those who motivated me to prioritize my education,” said Guaman.

Guaman expects to graduate in 2027.

Based in Paramus, Bergen Community College (www.bergen.edu), a public two-year coeducational college, enrolls more than 24,000 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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