Exercise Science major honored to be recognized
Gabriel Bermudez Ferreira, an Exercise Science Transfer Pathway AS major at Dakota County Technical College, has been named a 2026 Dave Schroeder Outstanding Student. The award, created to honor DCTC’s first president, recognizes students who stand out in college involvement and participation, academic performance, service to community, and other considerations, including perseverance in the face of adversity or unique challenges.
Gabriel Bermudez Ferreira
“I feel extremely accomplished and honored,” Ferreira said. “I don’t think there could be a better way to finish my two years at DCTC.”
Ferreira, 21, is from Rio de Janeiro. He graduates May 2026 and plans to transfer to a four-year university and study physical therapy.
“Studying in another country has been an incredible experience, but also a very challenging one,” Ferreira said. “I had to adapt to a new language, a different culture, and a completely different climate. Receiving this award reassures me that all the effort, sacrifices, and challenges were worth it.”
Sara Woodword, Exercise Science instructor, said Gabriel is wonderful to work with. “In addition to being an outstanding student, he is also willing to help his classmates through tutoring and other guidance,” Woodward said. “He has been especially helpful working with other international students who lack confidence in their English-language knowledge.”
Leading on and off the soccer field
Ferreira has played soccer for two seasons. Hawken Hanna, head men’s and women soccer coach, said Ferreira has been the perfect example of what a student-athlete should be.
“He has excelled as a student, an athlete, friend, teammate and community member and has been invaluable to DCTC in all of these areas,” Hanna said. “He is an extremely humble and hardworking individual, and this is exemplified through his success and growth during his time at DCTC.”
Ferreira is grateful to Coach Hanna, saying he played a huge role in making this journey possible. “He constantly encourages us to give our best and stay fully committed to the college, both on the field and in the classroom.”
“Incredible” support system helped Ferreira succeed
“The staff, both in athletics and academics, always made sure I had the resources and guidance I needed to grow,” he said. “The college provides a strong structure that allows students to develop not only academically but also personally.”
He also credits instructor Sara Woodward, who welcomed him from the beginning and understood the challenges of being an international student.
“Her classes are very well designed, with a practical and dynamic approach, which makes learning even more engaging. Being able to study something I truly enjoy made it easier for me to stay motivated and succeed.”
Gabriel’s family, life and college gallery
Gabriel Bermudez Ferreira • Q & A
Tell us about your family
I am very close to my family. My parents, grandparents, and my girlfriend are the most important people in my life. Everything I strive to achieve is for them and because of everything they have done for me. They are in Brazil, and they were my biggest support system during this time. Even from far away, they encouraged me every day to keep pursuing my goals and were always present whenever I faced difficulties.
What person has influenced your life the most and why?
The person who has influenced me the most is my mother. She is my biggest inspiration because of her strength, resilience, and the sacrifices she has made for me. She has always believed in my dreams, even during difficult times, and taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance.
My girlfriend has also had a major impact on my life. She is the person I trust the most, and she has always supported and motivated me to pursue my goals. Even being far apart, we have grown stronger together, constantly encouraging each other to achieve our dreams.
What advice would you give students looking at attending a two-year technical college?
I would tell them not to underestimate the value of a two-year technical college. The level of care and support from the staff is incredible, and there are many opportunities to build meaningful relationships and grow both as a student and as a person. If you stay focused and take advantage of the resources available, you can create a strong foundation for your future.
What do you hope to do after DCTC, academically, in sports, and professionally?
After DCTC, I plan to pursue a degree at a four-year institution in physical therapy. Professionally, I would love to work with a soccer team. Sports are what drive me mentally and physically every day—they are my passion and a big part of who I am. I will always stay involved in sports, whether it’s soccer or any other activity that keeps me active and motivated.
Learn more about the Exercise Science Transfer Pathway AS program at DCTC by contacting:
Admissions
admissions@dctc.edu
651-423-8266
Room 2-110
Sara Woodward
Exercise and Sport Science Instructor
sara.woodward@dctc.edu
651-423-8430
