Marilyn Bozarth, a Southampton resident, started her college journey much like many others, filled with both excitement and trepidation. Through all four years, she pushed through to achieve her dream of finding a job in which she can help people every day.

In 2021, she was one of the first 3+1 graduates at Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC), the first-generation graduate of her biological family and the first granddaughter graduate of her adopted family.

Carly Gels, an RCBC student majoring in music and scheduled to graduate in spring 2025, never saw herself attending college due to her disability. 

In 2015, Gels was diagnosed with autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. These conditions made it challenging to concentrate and learn in traditional classroom settings. As a result, Gels’ parents opted to enroll her in an alternative school close to RCBC, which prioritized hands-on learning. Fortunately, due to its proximity, Gels could visit the RCBC campus frequently on walks or during her free time.

For community leader and professor Dr. Meral Muyesser, following her goals meant taking the biggest risk of her life. She achieved her dream occupation through bravery and perseverance and found a community at Rowan College at Burlington County.

Kristen Abriola dropped out of high school at 17 during the COVID-19 pandemic to help her family during tough times. Four years later, she returned to school, enrolling in Rowan College at Burlington County’s Adult Basic Education program to earn her high school equivalency degree.