The Canadiens prospect is back at Team Canada's selection Camp ahead of the 2017 World Junior Championship, to be held in Toronto and Montreal beginning December 26.
Last year, the defenseman was among the nation's final cuts, sent home on December 20. The news was hard to take at the time, but has since served as a source of inspiration.
"It was tough, but you have to learn from your setbacks. This year, I'm using it as motivation to make the team," admitted Juulsen, who is one of 30 Junior-aged players currently vying for the chance to represent Canada on the world stage this holiday season.
But the 19-year-old should have no shortage of motivation as he heads into his final year of Junior squad eligibility.
Especially since it could mean competing for a medal at the Bell Centre, a place he hopes to one day call his NHL hockey home.
"It would be surreal. Montreal is a great city and I'm sure the fans will be behind us. It would be really special if we made it that far," continued the captain of the WHL's Everett Silvertips.
Now more mature with an additional year of experience under his belt, the Habs' first round pick -- 26th overall -- from 2015 knows the importance of making a good first impression.
"I have to train hard every day, make plays, and handle the puck well," added Juulsen, who will be taking part in the camp in Boisbriand until Wednesday with the rest of the WJC hopefuls. "I just have to make sure I'm doing the right things."
Juulsen isn't the only future Hab who has a shot at sporting the red-and-white maple leaf later this month. Michael McNiven, an undrafted goaltender signed by Marc Bergevin in September 2015, is also at Team Canada's selection camp.
Unfortunately for Victor Mete (4th round pick, 2016), his hopes were dashed after getting cut on Tuesday evening.
