Leaders Then & Now: Juan De Jesus
CollegeBound Initiative Class of 2005 ● Skidmore College Class of 2009 ● Special Education Teacher
I had the distinct pleasure of having Jon Roure as my director of college counseling during my years at Health Opportunities High School. Not only did we build a great relationship through the college application process, but we also continued our bond throughout my years in college and beyond. It was through him and participating in Student Leadership Network’s CollegeBound Summer Institute (CBSI) that I found my first school to work at where I pursued my passion for educating and mentoring our youth.
You don’t have to be a doctor, a lawyer, or the president of the United States to be amazing. Be amazing in what you love to do, and you will change this world to be a better place.
I attended my dream school, Skidmore College, where I met my best friends and studied counseling through Social Work. I minored in Spanish as well to hone my skills as a bilingual Latino. I had the pleasure of studying abroad in Spain and completed my Bachelors in order to continue working with adolescents in the Education field.
I am currently in my 12th year as a teacher with a focus on Special Education in one of our CBI partner schools in the south Bronx, The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology. In addition to teaching, I have been able to get involved in coaching Chess and Varsity Soccer for our school.
My advice to current CBI students is to explore as many opportunities as possible, find what you’re passionate about, and be great at what you love. You don’t have to be a doctor, a lawyer, or the president of the United States to be amazing. Be amazing in what you love to do, and you will change this world to be a better place.
