Background
Juan Aguilar’s deep love for film is inspired by the idea that each film has a meaning. Viewing something for the first time holds great importance to him. Yet, this makes sense for him, being the focused person he is and raised on watching movies. Aguilar explains that as he grew and matured, cinematography was something he found more interesting as well as learning about the background story of how something was filmed. He knew he should pursue his chosen career and/or major because of that.
Video by: Bobby Rodriguez
Hobbies & Interests
In addition to watching films or being immersed in different forms of media, you may find Aguilar on the soccer field, taking in the great outdoors, or preoccupying himself with a hands-on activity.
Roberto Velasquez, friend of Aguilar’s said, “Our love and passion for soccer has made our friendship grow together, and we show that on the field.”
Those who know him best may describe him as a focused, intelligent person who works well under pressure. His other hobbies include lifting and running, traveling, and because his family spends most of their time working, he’s often able to spend time with the dogs and nature, whether that includes taking them on a walk or simply hanging out.
“You’re the tourist in your own home,” Aguilar said, giving light to the idea of approaching your everyday surroundings with curiosity and openness. He said that his father played a huge role in shaping him as a person, always wanting him to have a better life, and that his goal is to constantly make him proud by striving to be the best version of himself.
Why Olivet?
Upon choosing a college, Aguilar explored some of his other options, yet when it came to the school that aligned the most with his needs as well as the community, he could see himself in, Olivet was the right fit for him. These feelings were only amplified after setting up a meeting to tour the campus with the soccer coach.
During his visit, Aguilar mentions a specific moment that stood out to him or made him feel as if Olivet was the right fit. While touring the bookstore and exploring Ludwig, his parents asked him if he was wanting to go home or continue visiting. Out of nowhere, he hears a random stranger, who then points at his name tag say to him in an enthusiastic tone, “I believe you belong here!” After this interaction, he realized that the community here at Olivet was a welcoming one in which people truly connect with one another.
Aguilar was raised going to church every Sunday and always wanted to get closer in his relationship with God. He felt that by choosing a place such as Olivet to continue his studies, he would be surrounded by a community who was also striving to get closer to God, participate in bible studies, and surround himself with opportunities for people to grow in their faith.
Thus far, Aguilar said that some key takeaways for him included learning how to manage time, building your own community as well as the experience, and making connections.
