Juan Pablo Roa’s four years of high school have been chock full of memories -- some of the tight bonds formed with his Padre brothers and teammates and some as the crowned winner four years in a row of the Oscars ballot contest. Regardless of the memory, his versatility shines through.

“Running and being part of the track and field team was amazing, and going with the team to state competitions was one of the best experiences I've had at Serra,” he said. “Also, being a winner for four consecutive years at the Oscar ballot contest will be a fun memory.”

Juan will study data science when he attends University of California, at Berkeley, in the fall. 

“I am proud to see how hard work and perseverance during these four high school years at Serra have allowed me to accomplish a life full of blessings and set me on the right path to enjoy the next chapter of my college life at Berkeley.”

A member of the National Honor Society, and treasurer of the society junior and senior year, Juan was also a big brother, Encounter member and a newspaper reporter for the Serra Friar his senior year. He was on the golf team as a freshman and was on the JV and varsity soccer teams his freshman through junior year. He was also a member of the track and field team his junior and senior years. 

On the field or in the classroom, Juan enjoyed all aspects of Serra.

“My favorite teacher was Mr. Carey in APUSH because I never thought I could learn so much history in such a short amount of time,” Juan said. “I also loved my Creative Solutions for the Global Good class with Mr. Hurley & Mrs. Lee, where I learned about real problem-solving.”

Juan has a pretty clear picture of what he hopes to be doing. 

“I see myself as a happy family man, living in the bay area, and working as a data scientist at one of the top tech Silicon Valley companies, or maybe working as a data analyst at NFL, EA, or Disney,” he said.

Serra has helped Juan look toward the future with the values he hones there, he said. 

“During these four years, I have grown and matured guided by the Serra values and principles, surrounded by the support of my Serra brothers. This experience has transformed my life, made me a person full of optimism and faith in God, ready to help others, and eager to make the world a little better.”

He is grateful for unwavering support he has received along the way.

“To my mom and dad, you are the most wonderful parents anybody could have. Thanks for your unconditional love and support, for guiding me, and for challenging me to live by the highest standards.”

He added, “I want to thank all the Serra teachers, athletic coaches, staff, and faculty for being there for us every day for the last four years,” Juan said. “I will always be grateful.”

All the best in Berkeley, Juan! We are all so proud of you!

 #siempreadelante