This new column serves as a spotlight, highlighting the everyday people who work and live in Callaway County. Every week, the Fulton Sun will take a moment to have a conversation with someone who is not usually featured in the news, but is just as instrumental in making our community the strong and beautiful place we all know and love.
Julia Watson was born and raised in Jefferson City, attending Jefferson City High School. She lived in Fulton for two and a half years before moving back to Jefferson City, but said she is currently looking to move back into Callaway County. Watson works at the Fulton Job Center, a position she transferred into after working in the Jefferson City Job Center. Watson has two children, two sisters and two brothers. Her parents recently adopted her second sister.
Q. What was your first job?
A. Walmart. I was a cashier. I was 16, a mother, a high school student and working in the evenings full-time. I was living on my own by 161/2, even though my family was still there for me.
Q. Who most inspires you (living or dead)?
A. My dad. Regardless of the situation, he was always there. A real go-getter. He could be sicker than sick, but he still got up and went to work. He pushed through. He adopted me and stepped in to be my dad, even though he didn't have to be.
Q. What have you done in life that was most fulfilling?
A. Raising my kids. Seeing the greatness they are turning out to be. All because of what I have shown them. They are respectful to all walks of nature. My biggest thing has been the saying "don't judge a book by its cover," because we are all equal.
Q. What is something you are proud of that you have been recognized for?
A. My friends, when they say I am a great person, and that I am always there for them. It's kind of shocking sometimes. Just when you think everything is going upside down, a friend texts you saying something nice like that.
Q. What profession, other than your own, would you like to attempt?
A. My biggest dream is to be like that show, "Pitbulls and Parolees," where they give them both a second chance. I want to do that, plus other animals and veterans. I would make the veterans my main focus, and have them work with other animals like farm animals and dogs.
Q. What profession would you not like to do?
A. Well, every job has to be done, whether we want to do it or not. But I wouldn't want to be a childcare provider. I love kids, and I grew up in my mom's daycare, but they are just too much for me.
Q. What is something that nobody knows about you?
A. I have a soft side, too. My friends think I am this eggshell that never cracks, but I have a soft side.
Q.What is your favorite thing about Callaway County?
A. The community - how open and friendly everyone is. I love the Brick District, too. I always tell people that they have to drive down there when they visit town. It's just so pretty.