Julia Tongate

Contact Julia

jrt3be@virginia.edu

What appealed to you about the M.S. in Commerce Program?

I pursued the M.S. in Commerce Program because it is a short 10-month program that gives me the knowledge I need to succeed in business. It appealed to me over other programs because Charlottesville is familiar as a UVA undergrad. I also appreciated how small the program is. I can get to know my peers, professors, and other McIntire employees.

What are you looking forward to or have you enjoyed most so far in the M.S. in Commerce Program?

I am looking forward to the Global Immersion Experience. I’m considering working abroad after I graduate, and this will be a great opportunity to network and learn about how businesses operate in different countries.

What are your academic interests?

Some of my favorite classes I took in undergrad were in the Anthropology department. I loved learning the cultural and historical reasons people act the way they do. I also pursued a degree in Economics. I decided to do the Marketing & Management Track because marketing lets me be both creative and logical. It is a perfect combination of my anthropological and economic background.

What clubs and organizations were you involved with during undergrad?

I was involved as a New Member Educator in my sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. I was also an Economics Peer Advisor and a Teaching Assistant for the New Curriculum. In my final semester at UVA, I worked as an Intern at Red Light Management.

What are your hobbies?

I love to craft, read, and work out at Zoom. I also love to go thrift and vintage shopping. I’m currently embroidering a pair of jean shorts that I upcycled.

Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.

I really want to visit Italy, Scotland, and Mexico City. I’m a quarter Italian and am very eager to explore my Italian roots. During the spring break of my fourth year, I traveled to Ireland and absolutely loved it. I’ve heard that the Irish and Scottish have similar humor, and I’d love to check out Scotland because it seems absolutely beautiful. Finally, I’d like to visit Mexico City because of the food! My mom went a couple of years ago and said it was some of the most delicious food she’s ever had. I also want to explore the art and music scene and practice some of my Spanish.

What is your favorite restaurant, coffee shop, or place to visit in Charlottesville?

My favorite restaurant in Charlottesville is Mas Tapas, a Spanish tapas restaurant. I started going there with my parents when I visited UVA for the first time. During my third year, I began working there and am going on my third year as a server. It’s a great environment and the food and drinks are amazing.