For Julie, Central is more than just where she earned her degree - it’s where some of the most meaningful parts of her life began. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a minor in business management, Julie stepped into a role at her family’s manufacturing business, Unique Extrusions, where she now works as a project manager. In her position, she oversees custom aluminum components from initial concept through production and managing each order from start to finish. While the technical side of the work is unique, what Julie enjoys most is the people-focused aspect - building relationships with customers and vendors, problem-solving when challenges arise, and ensuring every client walks away satisfied
Julie chose Central to stay close to home, but her experience quickly became something much bigger. With strong family ties to the university - her father and brother are also alumni - Central was already a meaningful part of her life. During her time on campus, she formed lasting friendships, discovered her passion for business, and even met the love of her life right outside of Barrows Hall. “Graduating from Central is a part of who I am,” Julie shared. “It’s something I’m incredibly proud of.” Her time at Central not only shaped her academically, but also helped her grow personally, giving her the confidence and skills she carries into her career today
Central continues to play a significant role in Julie’s life, especially through her decision to honor that same man she met and fell in love with at Central with a commemorative brick at the Alumni Pavilion. For Julie, it was a meaningful way to celebrate Doug’s life and his connection to Central. “He taught me so much about how to love and treat people,” she shared. “Being able to honor him in this way and keep his memory alive means everything.”
Her advice to current students is simple but powerful: Don’t give up! “College can be hard, but you have to want it,” she said. “And after you graduate, don’t worry if your career doesn’t look exactly how you expected. What you learn here can take you anywhere.”
