In the second installment of our Catching Up with Cougars series, we profile 1992 graduate and former Football student-athlete Mike Echols. Echols is currently a Professor of Communication at Bergen Community College in Paramus.
Graduation Year, Major/Minor/Concentration
1992, BA Communication/Broadcasting emphasis
What sport(s) did you play at Kean?
Football
Why did you choose Kean?
A great school in the heart of the state, which was perfect for a 23-year-old freshman honorably discharged from the USMC.
Talk a little bit about your experience as a Kean student-athlete:
I really felt I was a part of the College! Being able to play ball for the school gave me a great sense of pride for the institution.
Name a Kean athletic memory that stands out even to this day:
During our only home night game of 1988 against Wesley (Del.), I went into the game late in the first quarter and had the game of my life. I recorded two sacks, had numerous pressures and a few other tackles. It was extra special since I didn't usually start, my parents didn't come to all the games; they were at this one!!!!
Do you still participate in your sport?
I am 55 now, and until I was 42, I played in an 8 on 8 flag football league (ACFL), which featured not only many players from the NJAC, but also some fellow Kean alums.
Are there any teammates you still keep in touch with?
Yes, especially on Facebook, we will chat frequently.
What is your current job?
I am now in my 22nd year as a College Professor of Communication at Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ. On January 1st, I took over as the Department Chair, and have been a long time NJEA Association Officer.
Why did you choose that profession?
I absolutely love interacting with young adults, helping them strive to achieve their goals!!!
What do you love most about your job?
Talking and learning about my students! After 22 years, so many are unique and I love learning about who they are and what they hope to be.
In what ways did your student-athlete experience prepare you for life after college?
Working as a team, no matter where you go in life, is vital! Whether it was when I was working mornings at a radio station, or the Communication Department at Bergen CC, knowing that achieving goals doesn't happen based on one person, but a team!!!
Knowing what you know now, what piece of advice would you give to a Kean student-athlete now or in the future?
Play your sport and have fun! Being involved as a college athlete will not only keep you in shape, create life-long friendships, but also improve your abilities to study and succeed in the classroom!
