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Future Sports Industry Leader: Spotlight on Julia Dufková
Meet Julia Dufková, a Sports Management and Marketing major who will graduate in 2027. Since a very young age, she has been very passionate about sports and has been able to try many different sports throughout her childhood. Towards the end of her high school years, she realized that she'd like to work in the sports industry.
This past summer, one of her dreams came true when she was able to attend the Olympics in Paris as a volunteer for the Czech Olympic Team. She was one of 30 Czech volunteers who worked in the Czech Hospitality house.
She stayed in Paris throughout the duration of the Olympics to take care of Czech athletes and important people who came to visit and ensured that all the tourists from all over the world who visited the Czech house had a pleasant time. Together with the other volunteers, she would work from around 11-13 hours a day, but luckily, they also got some off days to enjoy Paris and its Olympic atmosphere.
Let's get to know this Sports Management and Marketing major!
Can you share about volunteering at the Olympics?
During my time in Paris, I met most of the athletes representing the Czech Republic, as well as some other athletes from different countries. I was able to hold several gold medals, participate in the popular Olympic pin trading, appeared on Czech TV multiple times and got the opportunity to attend several events – the highlight of which was definitely the beach volleyball at the incredible venue facing the famous Eiffel Tower. Additionally, I became friends with all of my fellow volunteers, making the sometimes very long hours much more enjoyable.
Overall, this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget. It was so much fun but also taught me a lot of valuable lessons.
Julia is in the first row, the first person on the left.
Which class has had the biggest impact on you so far and why?
Principles of Management - I took this class my first semester in college and absolutely loved it. I was able to learn so much and I definitely see myself applying different concepts and lessons I’ve learned in my everyday life.
Why did you choose Roberts?
My main reason behind choosing Roberts was the combination of the women’s varsity volleyball program and being able to study Sports Management and Marketing
In addition to this, I have some family in Toronto and its surrounding areas, which made me even more interested in Roberts, as Toronto is not too far from Rochester in comparison to the rest of my family is across the ocean. It’s definitely more reassuring to have someone a bit closer to me.
Where are you from?
I am originally from Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. However, I grew up in Luxembourg, where my family still lives now. While some might find this confusing, I see both the Czech Republic and Luxembourg as my two homes. While Luxembourg is the place I have spent most of my life in, the Czech Republic is where most of my relatives live and where I spend most of my summers.
What challenges have you overcome that you're most proud of?
Moving abroad, so far away from home at only 17 years old was not easy. It was definitely a hard decision to make, as it meant that I was leaving my family and friends behind in Europe. As someone very close to my family, I find it difficult sometimes as I miss them a lot. However, I have been enjoying my time in the U.S. very much and have not regretted it one bit. This experience and challenge have helped me grow as a person in so many ways.
What's your favorite spot on campus to study or relax?
My favorite spot has got to be the Golisano Community Engagement Center. I love how you can do work there as well as hang out with your friends. I also enjoy the setup; there are lots of spots to study and work together, and there are different activities to enjoy with friends.
What's a fun fact about you that most people don't know?
I can speak five different languages: Czech, English, French, Italian, and Luxembourgish.
What is your favorite place to eat in Rochester?
My favorite place has got to be Taichi in Henrietta. I love going there with my friends to enjoy some poke bowls and bubble tea.
What clubs or organizations are you active in on campus?
I am part of Global Club, specifically in the role of the administrative coordinator. Being part of the Global Club has had an amazing impact on my college experience. During the first week at Roberts, I attended my first Global Club event and absolutely loved it. I was able to meet so many great people who are now among my closest friends here. Overall, it has been wonderful being able to share our personal experiences with people who are similarly far from home. Thanks to this club, I was also introduced to my current roommate, Cristina, who is from Spain, and living with her is simply so fun.
Cristina (left, and Julia)
At a board game night at Roberts.
What sport do you play and what is your position?
I play volleyball and am a Defensive Specialist / Libero.
How do you balance your academic and sports life?
Balancing my academics and volleyball has not been easy, it can get very stressful, especially when we are in season in the fall semester, with all the traveling and many games. However, over time, I have been able to find ways to keep myself organized and find time to relax and spend time with my friends. This includes staying organized with my Google Calendar to help me stay on top of all my work and trying to get most of my work done before long travel weekends, such as when we travel down to New York City.
Julia with the Women’s Volleyball team (#22).
Julia Dufková exemplifies how embracing challenges can lead to remarkable growth and opportunities. From her multilingual upbringing between Luxembourg and the Czech Republic to her Olympic volunteering experience in Paris and her current journey as a student-athlete at Roberts Wesleyan University, she continues to make the most of every experience. While balancing volleyball, academics, and her role in Global Club keeps her busy, Julia's passion for sports and dedication to personal growth suggest she's well on her way to achieving her dreams in sports management. Her story is a testament to how stepping out of one's comfort zone – even if it means moving across an ocean at 17 – can open doors to extraordinary experiences and meaningful connections.
Faculty Feedback
"During this Christmas season, which often brings out the best in people through generosity and reflection, Julia stands out. She is serious and thoughtful about her studies, goal-oriented, and remarkably mature for her age. Her commitment reminds me of the season's core values of dedication, personal growth, and meaningful purpose. Just as the holidays inspire us to be our best selves, Julia consistently demonstrates an admirable approach to academic and personal development that signals significant potential for future success."
- Associate Professor of Marketing William Todd