Student Jan Pavlin: Brewing ambition with Equity Espresso
Jan Pavlin is a junior Global Business Management student, balancing studies with work and various projects. His days typically run from 6 AM to 11 PM, Monday to Friday, leaving little downtime. Despite his busy routine, Jan manages to find the time to drive initiatives like Equity Espresso, a project born from his desire to create more real networking opportunities for students. After transferring to RIT Croatia, Jan quickly found his footing here, describing his experience as one filled with collaboration and plenty of learning along the way.
How Equity Espresso came to life
One of Jan’s standout initiatives is Equity Espresso, a relaxed, collaborative networking event held twice a month. These gatherings bring students together to meet inspiring guests from various industries. The idea for the event emerged from Jan’s realization that students immensely benefit from opportunities for real networking. “I act as the bridge, setting the stage and making sure everything happens. Based on the turnout and the variety of people showing up, it’s clear that students are genuinely interested in hearing from guest speakers”. Jan has already brought in high-profile figures like Vuk Vuković, and Boro Vujović – individuals he describes as mentors and role models. Some of the upcoming guests include Jan Stedul, who will be joining us in late March, and Chef Mate Janković, scheduled for early April.
Big opportunities
Jan is currently working for Bloomberg Adria company; he attributes his success to a bold LinkedIn message. “I received a positive response from the Chief Content Officer, and long story short – now I am here! Honestly, I couldn’t have reached out to a better person, and I’ll admit, there was a bit of luck involved”.
Currently, he works in a hybrid role between Project Management and Business Development Intern. “Meetings, projects, process optimization, more projects”, he summarizes his typical day, jokingly adding, “and a necessary three-and-a-half-minute window-gazing break to keep my neurons in check”.
Prepared to succeed
Reflecting on how RIT Croatia has shaped his career path, Jan emphasizes the sense of community he’s found. “RIT Croatia has been a huge source of support throughout my journey. I couldn’t single out just one person or department because, honestly, it’s the entire community that has helped me grow”. He gives special recognition to Dr. Kristijan Tabak, whose lessons on probability theory gave Jan the confidence to embrace the risks that come with his ambitious goals. “I believe that with the right mindset, work ethic, and willingness to adapt, the so-called Midas touch will follow—whether that’s in experience, financial success (both material and immaterial), or overall well-being,” he said. Jan’s current focus is on entrepreneurship and continuously improving his skillset.
Words of advice for students
Jan’s advice to students is simple: “LinkedIn is your best friend. Use it. Reach out. Be persistent”. He encourages high schoolers to start investing in themselves early: “Do not be afraid to start building something immediately. College can be an incredible opportunity, but only if you put in the effort”.
