If you’ve met Julian Cantu, his positivity probably made an impression on you. As an administrative associate in Planning, Design and Construction, he juggles multiple priorities: welcoming guests, managing schedules, responding to emails, preparing reports, arranging travel plans, organizing documents, and much more. A true team player, he says one of his motivators is the success of others.
“When the people you support nail a presentation or get home in time for their kid’s soccer game because you were able to reroute his or her flight, that motivates me. I want everyone to know that no matter the time, day or night, they can call me for whatever they need.”
1. What type of work did you do prior to joining UT?
Before joining UT, I worked in various administrative/operations roles in different industries for some of the biggest names in the world. (Apple, Google, KXAN and an electric car company in east Austin). My experience includes positions such as office manager, executive assistant, and operations manager. In these roles, I gained valuable skills in managing schedules, coordinating events, handling correspondence, and providing general office support. Additionally, I have developed strong organizational and communication abilities, which have prepared me well for the responsibilities of my role here at UT.
My position is needed by every company in business and is one of the main reasons I chose the career path I am on.
2. How do you maintain an upbeat attitude?
Maintaining an upbeat attitude at work is crucial for productivity and overall well-being. As someone who interacts with people from all over campus as well as outside vendors, I want to make that person or group feel as though they are a priority. When they leave the office or walk away from our interaction, I want them to have had an incredible experience and to feel as though they were taken care of. Really, it’s just good customer service — a service that isn’t offered much anymore.
I also try to surround myself with positivity: I seek out positive influences in the workplace, whether it's supportive colleagues, uplifting conversations, or inspiring work environments. Being surrounded by positivity helps me maintain a cheerful attitude.
This last one is one I think a lot of us forget to do: practice gratitude. I make it a habit to express gratitude for the opportunities and successes in my work. Reflecting on the things I'm thankful for helps me stay grounded and appreciative of the work I do.
3. What do you think you bring to the work atmosphere?
First and foremost: Positivity. I strive to maintain a positive attitude and approach every task with enthusiasm. My optimistic outlook can uplift the mood of the team and contribute to a supportive and encouraging work atmosphere. Work doesn’t have to be hard and monotonous. Fun can be had as well.
Collaboration: I am a strong team player and enjoy collaborating with colleagues to achieve common goals. I believe that at the end of the day, if the team is successful, we are all successful. My willingness to assist others and offer solutions on various tasks fosters a sense of camaraderie and cooperation within the workplace. When you have those two things, there’s nothing that can’t be done.
Adaptability: Let’s face it. When we plan, the universe laughs. I can have the best to-do list and feel like the day is going to be full of accomplishments, but then something will hijack it. Adapting to changing circumstances and handling unexpected challenges with grace will always win in the end. Confidence is key too.
Professionalism: I try to uphold high standards of professionalism in all interactions and represent the organization with integrity. I want people to know that they can trust me and that when representing the University in an official or unofficial capacity, I can be trusted to give a positive impression of my team.
4. What is something you’re most proud of in your work at UT?
Being trusted and accepted by the Planning, Design and Construction group. I started as a temp here. I asked in my interview if there would be any chance of converting to full time and was told, “no.” It was then I told myself that I had work to do.
Not everyone can do what I do, and I certainly can’t do what they do. That’s why we call it a team. It’s sometimes hard to get in with a new team. You don’t want to mess up a good thing or rock the boat. Once everyone saw that I cared and that I am willing to do whatever it takes to make the team successful, the trust and acceptance were realized.
5. What is one of your favorite places on campus, and why?
We are absolutely blessed to have what we have here. From the Harry Ransom Center, the Blanton Museum of Art, The LBJ Presidential Library, Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, the observation deck at the Tower. Given all of that, my favorite place is the turtle pond. These dudes just hang out, getting sunshine and meeting the occasional pigeon that stops by for a drink. It’s a cool place to hang and relax.