She is one of the brightest stars of her generation.

After Julia Montes’s successful portrayal of the antagonistic character in Mara Clara, the Filipina-German teen star is now making waves as Katarina Alcantara Montenegro in Walang Hanggan.

But she seems unperturbed by the trappings of the limelight.

The lola’s girl, in fact, considers the recent Star Magic-sponsored birthday press conference—where this interview was held—her “most unforgettable moment.”

Smiling, she tells PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal), “Akala ko, simpleng maghahanda lang ako ngayon sa bahay kasi maganda yung takbo ng career ko.

“Pero ang dami talagang suporta ng tao sa ‘kin…”

Indeed, a lot has changed since the former child star was given her much-awaited break.

But when asked about the most glaring “pagbabago” in her life, her answer has nothing to do with her brand new house or popularity.

“Nawalan ako ng time sa family,” says Julia.

She adds in a nonchalantly, “Ngayon naman siguro, mas naaano ko lang yung mga dream ko, mas nagagawa ko siya ngayon kasi nakakapag-work ako.

“Nabibigay ko yung mga gusto ng kapatid ko ngayon, unlike before na iisipin ko pa, baka dream ko lang siya.”

Speaking of dreams, the 17-year-old actress knows that she still has a long way to go.

“Marami pa kong gusto maabot. Gusto kong gumawa ng sarili kong name. Gusto kong magkaroon ng award din,” the present screen partner of Coco Martin remarks.

And what’s her dream role?

“Wala akong literal na gusto pero ang dream ko, maging sirena,” she says, giggling.