Juan Santiago

Rock musician Juan Santiago, 38, of Oak Park, has had two pivotal moments in his life: the day his daughter was born and the day a former band member encouraged him to attend Triton College.

Santiago grew up in Chicago and was always interested in music. After high school, he toured the United States with his rock band, performing for crowds nationwide. After becoming a bit “burnt out” from the rockstar lifestyle, he transitioned to a career in body piercing. However, the job’s unpredictable hours didn’t align well with his daughter’s school schedule.

“I made the best decision when I decided to attend Triton in January 2024,” he said. “My former bandmate told me that it was never too late to obtain a degree. I liked that Triton was affordable.

At Triton, Santiago shared that he’s had a positive experience with every instructor, describing them as both influential and informative.

“I never had a teacher that wasn’t ‘cool,’” he stated. “I was going to school with people 20 years younger than me, and it never felt uncomfortable or awkward.”

Santiago is set to graduate in May 2025 with an associate degree in psychology. He plans to continue his education at National Lewis University and later pursue a master’s degree—and eventually a doctorate—in counseling.

“I feel so proud to be graduating, especially since my sister and I are the first people in our family to graduate from college,” he said.

Despite his academic focus, Santiago hasn’t left music behind. He still performs with his band, East Moon, which has opened for acts like Alien Ant Farm. This summer, the band is scheduled to play at the Q101 picnic and Taste of Randolph. As he continues to climb the music charts, Santiago credits Triton College for pushing him forward in life and in his career.

“I always felt supported here,” he said.