MEET your COACH

Denis Garcia Reyes is a dedicated academic and career coach with a passion for breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, and of Salvadoran-American heritage, Denis’s journey has been shaped by his experiences growing up in a low-income, immigrant family. His personal, academic, and professional paths have all been deeply influenced by these experiences, fueling his commitment to access, retention, and success in higher education and beyond.

Attending a Predominantly White Institution (PWI) as a first-generation college student, Denis encountered an initial culture shock that led him to seek affirming communities. Through this process, he developed a strong interest in college access, quickly realizing his desire to help students navigate and overcome barriers to higher education. This passion led him to an admissions internship, where he connected with professionals, gained insight into national trends, and learned how to create pathways for students from diverse backgrounds to access universities like his own.

Building on this foundation, Denis expanded his focus beyond access to include student retention, persistence, and post-graduation success. His leadership experiences in intercultural affairs, career development, and student-alumni engagement further shaped his skills. Through peer mentoring, resume and cover letter reviews, and program coordination, he discovered his natural ability to support and connect with others. His deep attention to detail and commitment to seeing others flourish became the driving forces behind his professional growth.

With a background in Master’s-level coursework, hands-on practicum experiences, and full-time roles in student success, Denis has continued to refine his expertise. Today, he serves as the Program Coordinator for Retention and Student Support for the Maryland Promise Scholarship Program at the University of Maryland, leveraging his diverse skill set to support scholars in their academic and career journeys.

Recognizing the wealth of knowledge he has cultivated, Denis founded Garcia Reyes Coaching, LLC (GRC)—a coaching practice dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve academic and career success. Through GRC, he provides tailored support, helping students and professionals navigate their paths with confidence and purpose.