Being the first to do anything comes with both challenges and opportunities. As the first graduating class of the Bergen County Institute of Technology’s Institute for Sports Medicine and Exercise Science at NVOT prepares to leave high school, students are reflecting on the experiences, lessons, and accomplishments that helped establish the program’s foundation. As pioneers of the program, they have not only experienced its curriculum firsthand but also have helped shape what future students can expect from it. 

The class goes in depth on anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, sport psychology, athletic training, and nutrition. Beyond teaching students how to pass an exam, the program challenges them to understand how the human body functions and the science behind movement and health. By encouraging students to apply their knowledge rather than simply memorizing it, the curriculum prepares them for both future coursework and real-world situations in healthcare and athletics. 

Senior Anthony Onnembo said, “I learned how there is so much more underneath the surface that nobody really knows our bodies.”

For students looking to pursue a career in a sports medicine or exercise science related field, they have the opportunity to undergo extensive training before even stepping into a college course. 

Senior Maria Furman said, “I’m proud that I’m able to be on the same page as the doctors and practitioners at the chiropractic clinic I am at for senior service, even though I didn’t do med school or PT school.” 

Experiences like these allow students to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, giving them confidence as they pursue careers in healthcare.

The accomplishment of the first class extends beyond the classroom. Students participated in independent research projects, in internships and work-based learning experiences, and presented to the Board of Education. However, as the teacher of class for all four years, Laura Pinkman believes that what stands out the most is not just the achievements of the students, but how they achieved them. 

Pinkman said, “They consistently demonstrated qualities that are essential to healthcare: compassion, patience, professionalism, and teamwork.” She believes these qualities have prepared her students to thrive in the  world beyond high school, adding, “They have shown that they are prepared to be successful in any field they choose.” 

Along with the class, the Sports Medicine program offers special activities exclusively for their members to engage in the topics they are learning outside of the classroom. The extracurricular opportunities give students a chance to expand their knowledge, build leadership skills, and connect with peers who share an interest in healthcare careers. Senior Payton Kremer said, “I am most proud of taking on leadership roles of Vice President and President of our NVOT Bergen Tech Sports Medicine HOSA chapter. My time in the program has challenged me academically while pushing me to develop my leadership skills.”

As the Class of 2026 is the first group of students to experience all four years in the program, the students and class evolved simultaneously. Without older students to pave the way for them, the inaugural class helped shape the culture and expectations of the class while growing alongside it. Kremer said, “I am very proud to be part of the pioneer class of this program and growing with the program over the past four years.”

As the first class of Bergen County Institute of Technology’s Institute for Sports Medicine and Exercise Science at NVOT takes off for their next journeys, the impact of the program extends beyond the program itself. By embracing new challenges and setting the standard for future students, these trailblazers have helped shape the Sports Medicine program from the ground up. Reflecting on their legacy, Pinkman said the class “helped build the foundation of the Sports medicine program and established a standard of excellence for future students.” With the next generation of students ready to follow in their footsteps, the graduating class leaves behind not only a successful program, but a lasting example of leadership and dedication.