University of Cincinnati student-athlete Juliette Laracuente-Huebner will graduate this spring with a perfect 4.0 GPA after completing her undergraduate degree in three years, according to an April 22 announcement from the university. In addition to her academic achievements, she has excelled in track and field, recently placing third in the pentathlon at the NCAA Division I Indoor Championships and breaking multiple school records.
Laracuente-Huebner’s accomplishments highlight the balance between athletics and academics that some students achieve at UC. She was admitted into UC’s Doctor of Audiology program during her first year through dual admissions pathways offered by the College of Allied Health Sciences, while also competing as a multi-event athlete in both indoor pentathlon and outdoor heptathlon events.
“Juliette truly has it all and is extremely talented, but it’s her commitment that separates her from other very gifted athletes,” said Chris Wineberg, associate head track and field coach. “She is the hardest worker and most disciplined athlete I have coached. She does everything possible to maximize her abilities.” Wineberg also described Laracuente-Huebner as “one of the most extraordinary people I have had the privilege of coaching,” citing her intelligence, discipline, talent, and character.
This season alone she set new records in several events including the pentathlon, 60-meter hurdles, long jump, as well as achieving personal bests in the heptathlon’s component events such as shot put and 200 meters. With four All-America honors so far—two each for indoor and outdoor competitions—she continues to compete while planning for future goals like qualifying for U.S. Olympic trials with hopes of reaching the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Laracuente-Huebner’s academic journey is shaped by personal experiences; having Deaf grandparents influenced her decision to study American Sign Language through Ohio’s College Credit Plus program before enrolling at UC. Her interest in bridging communication divides within hearing sciences led her toward audiology studies at UC—a program she values for its early clinical training opportunities inside UC’s Health Sciences Building.
Faculty members recognize Laracuente-Huebner’s dedication across both arenas. “Balancing athletics and academics at the highest level isn’t easy, but Juliette makes it look effortless,” said Carolyn (Carney) Sotto, professor-educator and undergraduate program director for speech language hearing sciences. “With an outstanding cumulative GPA… along with graduating with a Bachelor of Science in three years, Juliette is truly raising the bar.”
Looking ahead to next year she plans on pursuing a graduate certificate while continuing athletic competition before beginning doctoral studies during which she will focus on qualifying for Olympic trials. Alongside these pursuits are personal milestones; engaged to fellow student-athlete Seth Elking they plan a summer wedding after graduation.
