Bergen Community College alumnus, Panuha Were, ‘23, graduated with an associate degree in engineering science to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering.
“I knew I wanted the best quality of education,” said Were. He selected Bergen Community College because he has big goals and ambitions for the future, and he felt that Bergen brought him “one step closer to them.”
“It’s no secret that Bergen provides the best environment for students by giving them easy access to free tutors, extracurricular activities, and many other school resources,” said Were. “It’s also one of the few community colleges in New Jersey with a research center giving students more than enough access to everything they need.”
As an active honors student, he was senator of the Student Government Association (SGA), president of the African Student Union, director of recruitment for Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, and treasurer of Phi Psi Lambda Leadership Society. He consistently maintained his standing on the Dean’s List. He was awarded the W.F. Coggie Endowed Scholarship and the Philip Begonia Memorial Scholarship.
When reflecting on his student success, he attributes his success to his commitment, willingness, organization, and time management skills. “I was very committed to staying organized, allowing me to plan my study routines and manage my time effectively,” said Were. “By avoiding multitasking and dividing my work into manageable chunks, I have optimized my learning process.”
He shares his habits and tips with other students. “My willingness to engage with the material through note-taking, practicing effective study techniques, collaborating with peers, and seeking help played a huge role in my learning and growth,” said Were. He prioritized a good night’s sleep to ensure his cognitive functions were at their best. He set a productive study schedule and maintained a dedicated study space. He believes that these habits have “undoubtedly played a crucial role” in his success at Bergen Community College.
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.
# # #