Her Story
About Julie
I lead a non-profit organization dedicated to cultural and educational programs in San Diego, where I've been working in the education and culture industry for six years. My organization focuses on teaching French as a second language, and I manage a team of 20 employees, most of whom are teachers. One of my most notable achievements has been transforming the organization into a thriving entity within just three years, successfully running programs that help people flourish. We've experienced tremendous growth, expanding from a small operation to serving 531 people by the end of December 2025. Last year, I opened a new facility in Vista to support our expanding mission. I hold an MBA from ESCP Paris Europe, earned in 2021, along with a master's degree in administration and educational programs from the same year, and a bachelor's degree in computer science from 2003. I'm also certified in Fundraising and Development from UCSD Extension, where I serve on the advisory board, sharing insights about the value of this certification for nonprofits. Outside of work, I enjoy baking baguettes and practicing Jazzercise, which I consider the best sport on the planet.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Julie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my attention to details and my education. My work ethic and focus on the small things have been crucial. Education has been especially valuable to me because none of my parents graduated from high school, so it was important to climb the social ladder. Everything I've learned, from certificates to diplomas, has been very valuable in getting me to where I am today.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came from Eleanor Roosevelt, who said to do every day one thing that scares you. This advice has helped me push myself beyond my comfort zone and continue to grow both personally and professionally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Take care of yourself - it's super important. Just like on a plane, if you don't take care of yourself, you cannot take care of others. And it's not being selfish, it's just very important, because some people will rely on you, so you have to be at your best.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is staying at the best and doing the best we can at every level of the organization. As for opportunities, French has just become the fourth most spoken language in the world, and we are still rising. There are lots of people who don't know yet what we do, so we need to focus on marketing so people can understand that we are the best to learn French in San Diego.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me are respect, love, and compassion. I work with people, so respecting everybody is crucial. Everybody has a role to play in life, and you have to treat them with respect, love, and compassion. If you do that, then it works with everybody.
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