Julian Narchet is a marketing and mass communications professional, and a Communications Specialist at the University of Miami. He has extensive experience in customer service, market research, academic research, social media, public relations, and event management. He is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others through cooperation with non-profits and healthcare organizations.

Tell us about yourself?  

My name is Julian Narchet; I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. As a kid in Miami, I enjoyed the opportunities to eat great food, play soccer with people from various international backgrounds, and spend time boating and fishing. Outside of Florida, I spent a few years attending school in Baton Rouge, LA before completing my undergraduate and graduate education at the University of Central Florida. I am an avid sports fan, primarily of soccer, football, and basketball. Outside of sports, my interests include gaming, cooking, baking, and spending time with friends. Professionally, I work in communications and research specifically in the higher education and healthcare industries.

What makes you different from other professionals in your field?

My most unique trait as a marketing professional is my versatility. I have gained experience in a variety of industries and roles through my previous jobs, education, and internships. My professional experience includes positions in development for nonprofits, public relations for globally recognized brands, event management, healthcare marketing, and academic research. This has helped me develop a wide range of skills including digital design, copywriting, market research, media relations, social media management, and more.

What was the most important part of your professional journey?

After finishing graduate school, I took on internships and positions in a few different fields before getting settled working in healthcare and higher education. During that time, I went through many changes and challenges in my personal and professional lives. Although it was not easy, I think that time was great for me because I gained a lot of mental fortitude and proved to myself that I could persevere through more than I expected. I found out what industries I like and don’t like; I learned about working in small and medium agencies as well as large corporations. This period helped me grow as a person and professional while also figuring out what I wanted to do and learn moving forward.

What are the best and worst purchases you’ve ever made?

I would say some of my best purchases were those that helped make my life easier. Two that come to mind are my plain black suit, which can be a great look for almost any formal event, and a backup hard drive so I never have to worry about losing important files.

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One of the worst purchases I ever made was a cheap mattress. The pain inflicted on my back cost me more than the mattress did.

What takes up too much of your time?

Over-analyzing. Before taking any major course of action, I do my research. However, I sometimes find myself unable to act because I am too focused on soaking up information. I have worked to become more self-aware of these situations to pull myself out of them and make a decision promptly.

What three pieces of advice would you give to college students/new startup business owners who want to become entrepreneurs or leaders in their field?

1. Before you graduate, gain as much professional experience as possible. Learn and develop the skills you will need to hit the ground running once you join the workforce.
2. Never stop learning. There are always new skills and more experiences to gain that will keep you humble.
3. Leverage your support network. As prepared as you may be, life can be hard and unpredictable. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Who has impressed you most with what they’ve accomplished?

Coach Ed Orgeron of the LSU Tigers is very impressive. Coach O went through a series of interim coaching jobs at a handful of college football programs before finding his home at LSU. Initially at LSU, he was hired temporarily and had to prove himself to earn a lengthier contract. Coach O went from a no-name coach with a strong accent to being a national champion with an extended contract and one of the most influential voices in the state of Louisiana.

What drives you to keep going when it’s really tough?

I think a lot of my drive comes from within and knowing that I have the support of my family and friends. I push myself through challenges by reminding myself that I’ve overcome tougher things in the past. Whenever self-doubt starts to creep in, I try to remember all the support my family and friends have given me.

How should people connect with you?

The best ways to get in touch with me would be through my personal website, my LinkedIn page, or my email