Getting a 4.0 at Stetson University is no easy feat. Add in a double major and participation in a varsity sport and it’s nothing short of incredible. Now, consider that all of this was done with English as a second language and, well, that is Carmen Bernecker.

A native of Holzmaden, Germany, Carmen came to the United States and to Stetson to join the women’s soccer team and get a degree in Spanish and International Studies. While the transition was tough and the language barrier often increased the difficulty level of her classes, she came with high expectations.

“Getting a 4.0 is a goal of mine; I’m ambitious in school,” said Bernecker. “Since I was young, my mom has helped me to persevere and work hard for what I want to achieve. I learned that you have to take on challenges instead of running away from them. If you can do that, you will get good grades and succeed in life as well.”

Head Women’s Soccer coach Manoj Khettry noticed Carmen’s impressive mind, but was more interested in how she took things to heart. “If I could use a word to describe Carmen, it would be thoughtful,” said Manoj. “She lets ideas affect her. One of the things that has allowed her to grow so much is that she allows her ideas and her thoughts and her experiences to change her. Even when she has a negative experience, she thinks about it and allows herself to learn from it.”

As a member of the Women’s Soccer team, Carmen has grown in both her play and her leadership. Chosen as a captain in 2014, Carmen ended the season ranked second on the team with three assists. In her career, she scored one goal and had five assists while making 37 starts, including 17 this year. Khettry added that Carmen was not only a good athlete, but she truly set an example for the younger players. “On the bus when we were traveling, she would always have a book. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her watching a movie. If she was watching something, it would be game video. She just always wanted to learn.”

As a student, Carmen has shown many of the same tendencies. Dr. Ana Eire, Spanish professor and advisor to the Madrid Study Abroad Program, said that Carmen not only stands out in her classroom this semester, but stands out amongst all of the students she’s taught at Stetson. “Carmen is truly extraordinary,” said Eire. “I have been teaching at Stetson for many years, and I can honestly say she is one of the best students I have ever had. She is just outstanding in ever way. Her Spanish is excellent, as is her work ethic.” Carmen, whose first language is German, not only speaks English extremely well, but is also fluent in Spanish. As Eire said, “What people don’t realize about Carmen is that no matter what class it is, she is always in a foreign language.”

While she has made it look effortless, Carmen attributes her success to the support of those around her. “I want to thank all the people that have helped me along the way. My coaches have made me a better player and person. Without my friends and family, I wouldn’t have made it this far in life. I’m just very lucky.”

by Sarah Frohnapfel