Berkeley Today Stories

Berkeley College alumna Janet Maghan Gollinge

Berkeley College Helps Alumna Kickstart Human Resources Career

20160920

Janet Maghan Gollinge first graduated from Berkeley College’s Executive Secretarial program in 1982. When she wanted to pursue a career in Human Resources, she knew Berkeley College was the right place for her to return. She graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration Management in 2007.

When Ms. Gollinge came back to Berkeley College to earn her degree, she was also working full-time for Comcast as a HR Generalist. She credits being able to take classes both online and on site in Woodland Park and Woodbridge, NJ, with helping her succeed. “You have to be disciplined when taking online courses, or it will blow up in your face,” she said. “Those classes were very helpful because it taught me self-discipline.”

Ms. Gollinge also credits Berkeley College professors for preparing her for a career in Human Resources. “Many of the teachers work outside of Berkeley and their knowledge of the business world was very valuable to me,” she said. “Their stories from professional experience were interesting and something I could relate to.”

A resident of Jackson, NJ, Ms. Gollinge is currently Human Resources Director at Atlantic Federal Credit Union in Kenilworth, NJ. Shortly after graduating from Berkeley College, she earned a Professional in Human Resources certification from the HR Certification Institute, and a Certified Professional certification from the Society for Human Resource Management.

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Up Close with Janet Maghan Gollinge

What does success mean to you?

Being happy with your career and position, and knowing you contribute to the success of the organization.

What initially inspired you to enroll in Berkeley College?

My dad loved the recruiter. She was extremely nice and helpful with any questions we had. After graduating from Berkeley College’s Executive Secretarial Program in 1982, I returned to pursue my Bachelor’s degree because I knew I would need it if I wanted to pursue a career in Human Resources. I was very comfortable at Berkeley and they had started to offer Bachelor’s degree programs, so it was a win-win for me.

In which way(s) do you see yourself being successful in the future?

I feel successful when I know I’ve influenced someone to make a better decision after they’ve come to me for advice, when I’ve given them something to consider that they wouldn’t have thought of on their own.

What advice would you offer today’s college-bound students?

Listen to everyone’s advice (guidance counselors, parents, teachers, etc.) and then make your decision after carefully considering all the advice you’ve received.

What was your most memorable moment at Berkeley College?

I remember when I first went to the Woodland Park campus to take a tour. The campus was beautiful. I remember during the tour being told the story of the nuns who were allowed to stay on campus for as long as they were alive. That was something I thought showed class and respect from an organization.