​Julien Wormser, former international exchange student and new chairperson of the European chapter of the University of Stellenbosch Business School (USB) Alumni Association, says that volunteering is very new to him, but that he relishes this role and is ready to expand Stellenbosch University's footprint in Europe.

This business and strategic analyst, who currently lives in Lyon, France, studied at the University of Stellenbosch Business School for a period of six months in 2003. He says that he has fond memories of his time as an exchange student.

“Those six months in Matieland opened my eyes and helped me choose the way I wanted to live my life. Don't focus only on yourself, but take the risk to go out and meet the unknown. You may fall and fail, but should never miss the opportunity to reflect about where you want to go and who you want to be."

Julien is currently working on consolidating the European community of USB alumni. “I am convinced that Stellenbosch University can push its borders much further than Stellenbosch only, and that all Maties around the world can contribute to it."

He believes that more Maties should consider giving of their time and talent. “Of course, we should have more people involved in volunteering. We should all consider our stay in Matieland as an introduction to a lifelong learning experience. What we received from Stellenbosch University should be given back to our fellows and other alumni. In a way, it is a debt we owe to our alma mater that we should pay."

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