By Alvert Hernandez—
Passionate, Willing, Dedicated, Hard-working, and Competitive are some of the words Gabrielle Rivera, 21, Biology major, Junior, from Teaneck describes herself as.
Starting her collegiate career at Caldwell College in 2009-2010, Gabrielle played limited minutes for the Cougars. She transferred to NJCU the following year and now is a three-sport athlete here at NJCU, playing basketball, softball, and cross country with an impressive resume from high school.
Mrs. Rivera was a three-sport athlete in high school as well, playing basketball, softball and volleyball in St. Josephs of the Palisades High School in West New York, NJ. She finished her impeccable high school career as a 1,000 point scorer along with first team all Hudson County honors in her senior season in basketball and volleyball. She wasn’t only an accomplished athlete but an accomplished student. She finished with a 3.2 GPA and was active member in her high school student council.
“When I’m in season it keeps me focused on my academics. For each sport we need a certain GPA, and it is a great stress reliever.”
“I’m used to all this. I just am used to being busy. I like that feeling, it helps make connections and meet great people” said Gabrielle. Her interest in sports sprung from her father and older brother who always pushed her. “I have an older brother and my dad raised me on the field and on the court my whole life. I grew to love sports.” Gabrielle feels as her participation in all these sports actually helps her academics instead of hindering them. “When I’m in season it keeps me focused on my academics. For each sport we need a certain GPA, and it is a great stress reliever.”
Her father has been very influential in what she wants to become in the future, which is why she is considering sports medicine. “My dad always pushed me to sports. I want to study medicine and I like to help people. I enjoy making others feel better because I like it when people make me feel good.” Since basketball season is over she is now very focused on her softball season, she has 6 runs in 46 at bats and started 15 of the 17 games for the lady knights this season.
As a junior she only has one more year left and would like to make it worthwhile. “I would definitely like to make all NJAC for basketball before I leave. I would like to leave some type of impact with the people I have met here.”
