We recently caught up with Alana Usategui Guilarte ‘08. Read on to find out her passion for helping children with special needs, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and the advice she has for current students.
What are you up to these days?
Currently I am a mom to Annabelle (3), Step-Mom to Thomas (10) and owner of my business, Maven in Behavior.
What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I love the work I’m doing because of how incredibly rewarding it is! When my twin brothers were 3.5, they were diagnosed with PDD-NOS. At the time I was 15 and quickly immersed myself in all the different therapies they were attending to help with various skills such as language, play, social skills, etc. One day I observed one of their ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy sessions and immediately fell in love with the practice. Early in high school, I knew a field in which I was able to work with children with Special Needs was the path I needed to take. Prior to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst(BCBA), I was a special education teacher in New York City as well as in Miami. After about 3 years of becoming a BCBA, I decided to open my own practice, Maven in Behavior.
Is there anything you learned during your time at Gulliver Prep that you feel was helpful in your life after Gulliver?
During my time at Gulliver, I acquired valuable skills and experiences that have significantly influenced my life post-graduation. One key aspect was the emphasis on rigorous academic standards and critical thinking. The challenging curriculum at Gulliver taught me how to approach problems analytically and develop effective problem-solving skills, which has proven invaluable in both my academic and professional pursuits.
Additionally, the emphasis on extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities at Gulliver provided me with a well-rounded skill set. These experiences translated well into my ability to collaborate with diverse teams and take on leadership responsibilities in my professional life.
Are there any Gulliver teachers or coaches you credit as having positively influenced you?
Absolutely! I had some amazing teachers who not only saw the great potential I had for my future, but did an amazing job supporting me along the way! Particularly Mrs. Fran Chase and Ms. Melinda Atkins. Ms. Atkins encouraged me to become a certified Yoga Teacher and as a result I ended up creating my own business (in high school!) teaching children’s yoga. I took that yoga practice with me for many years following high school and was even able to apply some of my teachings into my work with children with special needs. I believe that entrepreneurial spirit they both encouraged really stuck with me as I now have my own business helping children with Autism.
What is one of your favorite memories from your time at Gulliver Prep?
One of my favorite memories isn’t one in particular, but the culmination of so many memories from my time at Gulliver. As a Gulliver lifer I not only made lasting friendships, but I truly believe the rigorous standards and expectations helped me become the successful professional I am today! I truly love that Gulliver created a community that extended beyond my time in the classroom.
What has been one of your proudest moments?
One of my proudest moments was when I opened up my own business! This was one of my dreams when I was in high school, but as I got older, I felt this may not be attainable. During my maternity leave and peak of Covid, I had a change of heart and I decided to take the leap. I was able to celebrate with friends and family at an office opening and it was honestly one of the best days!
As a Gulliver Prep alum, what advice would you give to current students?
My biggest piece of advice would be to take advantage of any and all opportunities afforded to you. These don’t come as easily as you get older and the more experience you have in a variety of settings, the better. It can not only help you professionally, but as well as personally.
Rapid Fire Responses:
- A quote that motivates you: : “The harder I work, the luckier I get” -Samuel Goldwyn
- Last movie you watched and loved: My absolute favorite movie is Something’s Gotta Give, nothing will ever top it for me!
- A song that you’ll never get tired of hearing: My wedding song, Holy Water by Gallants
- A food, restaurant, or meal that you’re always in the mood for: You don’t have to ask me twice to have dinner at Fiola!
