Cleveland State University Student of Distinction: Julie Onderak 

CSU celebrates graduating students who have overcome obstacles, made significant achievements or are fulfilling Cleveland State University’s mission in or outside the classroom.

Today, we celebrate Julie Onderak ’25.

CSU: Have you had any significant internships/co-ops/careers while at CSU?

JO: I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Ohio Export Internship Program, a program I joined on a whim to “see what would happen.” The program connects students interested in international business with small- to medium-sized Ohio companies seeking help with exporting. Whether entering a new market or expanding in an existing one, the program equips students with skills to make export decisions and advance a career in international business.

During my time at my host company, Karg Corporation, I saw how business operates in a manufacturing company on a global scale. I learned to adapt to different cultures I encountered daily, adjusting my communication style based on who I was speaking with, where they were from, and their unique needs. I also learned about the documents required for international shipments. Observing differences between countries was eye-opening.

Unlike many internships that end without further opportunity, Karg Corporation hired me part-time for the fall ’25 semester. This role brings added responsibility and even more learning beyond my internship. The experience has been invaluable, and the knowledge I gained will guide me as I build my career.

JO: Like most college students, my connections with professors usually end each semester. I have been fortunate, however, to build lasting relationships with a few faculty members at CSU. One of the most meaningful is Chris Lees, an EAN counselor in the Business Outreach and Engagement Department. He was my advisor for the Ohio Export Internship Program and has been an incredible mentor. His door was always open whenever I had questions or needed advice, and he continues to support me even after I completed the program.

Another important connection is Jacob Ott, a career specialist in Career Development. I frequently sought his guidance on career planning and resumes. He listens carefully, understands my questions, and provides honest feedback—something I greatly value. I know I can rely on Jacob for guidance well beyond my time at CSU.

CSU: How would you describe the connections you have made with the faculty and staff at CSU?

Like most college students, the extent of my connections usually stops at the end of each semester, at least in terms of professors. However, I have been very fortunate to make some amazing and consistent connections with a few faculty members during my time at CSU. One of the amazing connections I have made is with Chris Lees, who works as an EAN counselor at CSU in the Business Outreach and Engagement Department. He was my advisor for the Ohio Export Internship Program, but further than that he has been an incredible mentor to me. Whenever I’ve had questions or just simply needed to talk, his door was always open and he was always willing to help me with anything I need, even now after I completed the program.

Another notable connection that I have made is with Jacob Ott, he works in Career Development as a career specialist. During my time at CSU, I needed a lot of career and resume help. When I have, I always scheduled with Jacob. He listens to my questions, understands what I’m asking, and he’s honest with me. I value honesty, even if it isn’t what I want to hear in the moment. I always know Jacob will be honest with me. As I continue to have career and resume questions I know that Jacob will be there for anything I need even well after CSU.

CSU: How has Cleveland State inspired you for your future?

JO: When I transferred to CSU in fall ’23, I had an expectation of what it was going to be like. I had an expectation of perfection for myself and for my journey here. From assignments and group projects to the way I conducted myself in class, I believed that if I wasn’t perfect, I would be a failure. CSU taught me that perfection isn’t a viable goal, but growth is. You won’t always know the answer, and that’s okay. As I have allowed myself to make mistakes and take this unwarranted expectation off myself, I have been able to learn things in ways I never could have under the weight of perfectionism.

I haven’t earned an A on every assignment, nor have I always said the right thing or made the right decision, but I tried my best and moved forward. What matters most to me now is whether I am better than I was yesterday – because that is what growth looks like. I will inevitably still stumble, because growth isn’t linear, but now I know, thanks to CSU, that progress – not perfection – is what it takes to truly be successful.

CSU: How do you think you have fulfilled the CSU’s mission?  

JO: My story might seem typical from the outside, but it’s actually quite the opposite. After high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do, so I tried different things until something stuck. I eventually transferred to CSU with no plan to join extracurriculars, but seeing the opportunities available sparked my interest.

Joining the Entrepreneurship Club board in fall ’24 as secretary opened my eyes to resources I hadn’t known existed—and allowed me to guide other students to them. When I became VP in spring ’25, I learned that leadership isn’t always loud or visible. Often, it’s about making hard decisions quietly, learning as you go, and understanding that leadership isn’t black and white.

Everything I do is rooted in faith and work ethic. My parents taught me the value of strong faith, which has carried me through the challenges of CSU. The work ethic I learned growing up has guided me through college and earned me opportunities along the way. I take pride in hard work, not for recognition, but for the satisfaction of what I accomplish—even when no one sees it.

CSU: Do you have a career lined up, and how has CSU been instrumental in that process?

JO: As of this writing, I am planning to continue with the company I interned with through the Ohio Export Internship Program. CSU was instrumental in this because the program is offered through CSU, and without the OEIP, I would not be in the position I am fortunate and thankful to be in today.

Congratulations, Julie!