South Middlesex Times

Efren Mercado, a formerly incarcerated individual, is set to receive his bachelor's degree in justice studies from Rutgers University-Newark after spending 30 years behind bars. Mercado also now works full-time as an anti-eviction advocate, helping families facing the threat of eviction. Speaking about his unique college experience, Mercado reflected on the challenges he faced while pursuing his education from prison, saying, "Just imagine me in my forties, hunched over a bed full of papers for hours, til 8, 9, 10 at night doing research in my cell. No typewriters, no word processor, no laptop."

Mercado's journey into higher education began during his time at East Jersey State Prison in Rahway in 2013, where he became one of the first incarcerated individuals to enroll in a new program. Recalling his eagerness to prove that prison does not define him, Mercado expressed his determination to make the most of the educational opportunity, stating, "I wanted to rewrite my story and change the narrative." Despite the challenges of limited resources, Mercado immersed himself in learning, with the support of fellow inmates participating in the program.

Through the NJ STEP program, a statewide initiative that provides educational opportunities to incarcerated individuals, Mercado earned his associate's degree in liberal arts from Mercer County College before continuing on to pursue his bachelor's degree at Rutgers University. Reflecting on the support he received from his peers and instructors, Mercado emphasized the value of education in transforming his life.

Mercado's post-graduation plans include working full-time for Newark Community Solutions, a non-profit organization that assists families at risk of eviction. Describing his work as a career rather than just a job, Mercado expressed his satisfaction in helping his community, stating, "I help people in my community – what could be better?"

Christopher J. Agans, the executive director of NJ-STEP, praised Mercado's character and contributions, describing him as "an extremely thoughtful, appreciative, giving, sharing kind of guy." Despite his upcoming graduation, Mercado will continue to be involved as a public speaker and advocate for the program, leveraging his experiences to support others on their paths to success.