At a time when the average student loan debt for graduates in the United States is nearly $40,000, Allison Abrom completed her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science at Montclair State University without loans or financial assistance.
“I’m extremely proud to say that my working experiences have allowed me to pay for my bachelor’s degree program all on my own,” said Abrom, who is set to participate in Winter 2026 Commencement at Prudential Center in Newark. Abrom studied Applied Nutrition and Wellness with a minor in Sports Nutrition through Montclair’s College for Community Health.
Balancing full-time work and academic responsibilities, she said this experience improved her skills in financial planning and time management. “I now have a better commitment to financial planning, proper time management and a passion for working and what I do.”
Her father, Gregory Abrom, expressed his support: “We are extremely proud of Allison and all she has accomplished. She can now start her life without the burden of debt. Allison learned she can set a goal and accomplish it no matter what stands in the way.”
Abrom enrolled at Montclair State University in fall 2019 with the intention of self-funding her education. She sometimes limited her course load to what she could afford each semester. “My parents and I view college and higher education as a privilege,” she said. “Working to pay for my education fully will set me up for financial freedom and success.”
She worked more than full-time as a head food server at a country club before finding another job that better fit her academic needs. “They were expecting me to put the work before school, so I was like, I can’t be in that environment anymore,” she said.
She later took a desk job at a golf simulator business closer to home that allowed her study time during slower periods. Prioritizing tuition costs meant limiting social activities: “I had to say no to certain social outings, which allowed me to put more time into work,” she said.
Doreen Liou, Associate Professor of Nutrition and Food Studies, described Abrom as “a proactive student, projecting a positive attitude and zeal in learning.”
During her studies, Abrom completed an internship at Meadowlands YMCA assisting with SNAP-Ed food pantry programs and developing healthy recipes for community members. “I was granted a working environment that prompted creativity and allowed me to fully trust in my own knowledge and education,” she said.
Abrom’s experience aligns with Montclair State University’s mission of public service through community involvement—a focus reflected across its broad educational offerings spanning arts, sciences, professional training, and research (official website). The university enrolls over 23,000 students across several New Jersey communities (official website), provides extensive academic opportunities (official website), serves as New Jersey’s largest Hispanic-Serving Institution (official website), and has been recognized among top public universities for value and social mobility (official website).
Looking ahead, Abrom plans careers related to corporate wellness or community nutrition—and possibly teaching as an adjunct professor. She also intends to pursue graduate studies at Montclair State University: “I am incredibly thankful for my time in my undergraduate program at Montclair State University,” she said. “and I am proud of the person it has helped me become both in a professional and personal way.” Her upcoming master’s degree will also be self-funded.
The Pew Research Center notes that many graduates with student loan debt question whether college was worth it; however, Abrom is clear about the value of her experience.
This story is part of an ongoing series highlighting graduates who represent Montclair State University’s efforts toward expanding access to education while serving broader community needs.
