Celeste Surís-Rosselli
Director of College Counseling
The Baldwin School of Puerto Rico
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
Like many in this field, I didn’t set out to become a college counselor. I was an attorney and realized that my passion wasn’t in revising and drafting corporate contracts; I wanted to help people find their voice and use it to shape their communities. I had a wonderful mentor, Lucía Martín, who brought me on to launch the college counseling department at TASIS Dorado (PR). I quickly fell in love with the mix of strategy, storytelling, and student support, as we worked together to graduate the first six classes from the school and build traditions that still stand.
I fell even further in love with the profession when I joined the admissions staff at NYU and had the opportunity to meet students from richly diverse communities, including those from Brooklyn, Panama, and South Africa. I’ve always been passionate about education and equity, and this profession allows me to help students and families feel empowered, informed, and excited about what comes next.
What is your favorite part of the job?
It’s hard to top the joy of seeing students thrive — not just getting into college, but growing into themselves. My favorite moment of the year is when they first hit “submit” on their college applications and they get to see all their hard work come together and the infinite possibilities ahead of them. After more than a decade in the profession, I still find it deeply moving to witness students from Puerto Rico and beyond step into adulthood as advocates, leaders, and community-builders. At The Baldwin School of Puerto Rico, where I now serve as director of college counseling, I’ve found a school community that is as committed to justice, resilience, and compassion as I am. Every day, my students challenge me to be better — and I love that.
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC has been a steady source of inspiration and connection. Through NACAC and my regional affiliate SACAC, I’ve built relationships with colleagues across the country and found solidarity in our shared work to create more equitable pathways to college. I’ve also appreciated the advocacy efforts on behalf of students whose voices are often overlooked, especially those navigating structural challenges, geographic barriers, and systemic inequities.
I always leave NACAC events feeling reenergized and reconnected to our shared mission. It’s a reminder that we’re stronger when we lean on each other.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
The admissions landscape continues to shift — policy changes, AI, testing, financial aid — it’s a lot to keep up with. But the real challenge is ensuring that all students, regardless of background, can navigate this process with dignity and support. That’s the work that matters.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
Traveling, working out with my PeloBuddies, hunting for the best cup of coffee, baking something elaborate, or reading a book I’ll probably recommend to five students by Monday. I also love archery — my husband taught me, and now we teach it together during our school’s annual Wellness Week at Baldwin. It’s a shared ritual that brings a sense of focus, joy, and connection to our school community.
What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Educator. Esquire. Epicurious. Engaged. Explorer.
Published May 26, 2025