Coleman Champion: Taris Bergerson
Oct 26, 2023
Taris exhibits qualities of a Coleman Champion by always being professional, prepared, and engaged. Her enthusiasm for the profession is contagious to all those around her! - Kay Jukes, program director
Name
Taris Bergerson
Residence
Angleton, Texas (originally from Danbury, Texas)
Degree or Certificate Program
Dental Assisting - Associate of Applied Science
Year & Class
2nd year, Class of 2004
Leadership Positions or Extra-Curricular Activities
- National Society of Leadership and Success
- Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
Why did you enroll at HCC Coleman College?
HCC Coleman College came highly rated, and I heard really good things about the faculty for Dental Assisting. After meeting them at my first interview, I could see their passion for the field in person, and I knew right away I wanted to learn from them.
Why did you choose your program of study?
My mother, a cancer survivor, played a big part in my decision to choose Dental Assisting. The chemo and radiation caused her teeth to deteriorate, and she went from smiling all the time to being embarrassed to smile. It broke my heart.
Her dentist and his staff were amazing. They changed my mom’s life. Her smile was bright again, and I decided right then that I wanted to be a part of that community. I find it extremely gratifying to help enhance quality of life and help people gain a confident smile.
What do you like best about your college experience?
The best part is the people I have met in my program. I have gotten so close to them in such a short amount of time. We push each other to be the best we can be, and I am thankful to have met them.
What do you like best about your program of study?
The benefit of the program is the smaller classroom setting. It allows faculty to prioritize quality instruction, and it gives students more in-depth interactions with our professors.
When you are tired, what motivates you to push forward?
I want to be an example to my two boys of how important it is to follow your passion no matter how difficult it gets.
What advice can you offer to help other students succeed?
Manage your time effectively. Never be afraid to ask for help. Professors are willing to help. As long as you make an effort, they will too.
Any final thoughts?
It is never too late to start planning for your career. Don’t get in your own way. If you start feeling overwhelmed, remember you are not alone. It will all be worth it in the end.