Counselor Profile
Juaquin brings over two decades of experience in education and college counseling, specializing in supporting K-12 students applying to a wide range of schools, including highly selective colleges and universities. His expertise extends to working with student-athletes, artists, transfer students, underrepresented students, international students, students pursuing liberal arts programs, and students seeking guidance with uncovering their passions.
A former admissions officer at Occidental College and senior interviewer at his alma mater Wesleyan University, Juaquin has reviewed applications from across the U.S. and around the world. He also served on the College Fair Board for the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) and has presented on college admissions at both regional and national conferences.
Juaquin’s passion for education led him to develop and direct the college counseling departments at leading independent schools, a role he held for over a decade. A leader and entrepreneur, he enjoys helping students discover how they want to make an impact.
Juaquin believes the college admissions process is much more than just a series of deadlines and applications — it is an opportunity for self-discovery, thoughtful planning, and growth. He takes a highly personalized approach to counseling, meeting each student where they are and helping them craft a strategy aligned with their unique goals and identity. He is passionate about helping each student find their path to college in a way that allows them to understand the bigger vision of what they’re trying to accomplish and feel good about who they are.
A former Division I-recruited athlete who swam at the Division III level, Juaquin brings the same discipline and dedication he applied in the pool to his work with students. He also competed at the national and international level in the U.S. Masters and international swim meets.
Juaquin was honored with the Yale Educator of the Year Award for his outstanding contributions to college counseling. He remains passionate about helping students find clarity, confidence, and purpose as they embark on their journeys to college and beyond.
Deeply committed to access and equity in education, Juaquin also founded and served as executive director of a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding educational opportunities. As a former member of the Call to Action Board on Diversity for the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), he has long championed initiatives supporting diverse student populations.
In his free time, Juaquin enjoys swimming, going on walks with his two dogs, and volunteering with nonprofit organizations.
Counselor Features
Articles
- Uncovering Your Passions Using the College Admissions Process
- How to Build the 'Perfect' Transfer College List