»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË

»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË volunteers Gilles Dillen and Jonathan Visser embody the spirit of collaboration. With a shared passion for fostering connections, the pair are re-energising the UCL »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË Netherlands group.

Discovering UCL

Drawn by the university's reputation for academic excellence and global perspective, Gilles embarked on his UCL journey in 2016 after moving to the UK from the Netherlands. His Master's degree in Economics and Policy of Energy and Environment provided him with important insights and a broadened worldview, shaping his commitment to alumni engagement upon graduation.

“"I chose UCL because it offered a Master's degree that wasn't available anywhere else in Europe, and the course I pursued was structured amazingly. As soon as you set foot on campus, it makes you feel like you are part of a bigger global community, and that’s why I was excited about engaging with other alumni."

Jonathan's UCL experience began in 2005, when he began his BA in Dutch and Management Studies. Rooted in his Dutch and British heritage, Jonathan sought to combine language proficiency with a deeper understanding of management principles, a decision that would influence his academic and professional journey.

“"I really enjoyed the fact that we developed not just your relationships with your peers, but also your perspective on the world and your interests, and how you wanted to pursue them further."

Facilitating community and collaborationÌý

After finishing their studies at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË and returning to the Netherlands, both Gilles and Jonathan recognised the importance of developing connections among alumni in their home country and proactively took steps to revitalise the alumni network in the Netherlands. Teaming up with fellow volunteers, Gilles and Jonathan participated in organising a series of engaging events in 2019 aimed at bringing alumni together. Ìý

Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, they have remained steadfast in their commitment to providing a platform for alumni to interact, share experiences, and support one another.

Gilles reflects, "Covid kind of stalled things but it's been relatively easy to set up communications, organise small events, and ensure that people could meet each other which has given us the opportunity to facilitate new connections with individuals from UCL. It’s been simple and a nice way to engage with people."Ìý

Personal and professional growth through volunteeringÌý

Gilles and Jonathan acknowledge the personal and professional growth that volunteering with UCL has afforded them.

“"Meeting and engaging with people who have similar perspectives has been encouraging and also improved my confidence in my professionalism and that I'm doing the right thing for the greater good."Ìý

From honing leadership and communication skills to expanding their professional networks, they have found fulfilment in contributing to UCL’s community while enhancing their own journeys.

Jonathan adds, "I think volunteering for the university has been fantastic at helping me develop the skills to excel in a professional setting, and helped develop me into the person I am today and where I am.’’Ìý

Envisioning an inclusive and vibrant communityÌý

Looking ahead, Gilles and Jonathan envision a vibrant and inclusive UCL alumni community in Amsterdam and other Dutch cities, characterised by collaboration, support, and shared achievements. They encourage fellow alumni in to join them in shaping the future of the network and to be part of the upcoming UCL bicentenary related activities.ÌýÌý

Jonathan says, "Get involved. We're not looking to be an exclusive group; we want involvement. We want to see the group grow and be interactive. While it currently needs us to give it a bit more drive, we'd love to encourage people to get involved, come up with suggestions, propose events they'd like to see us do, andÌýwith the bicentenary 2026 celebrations coming up, it would be fantastic to have more people involved in shaping our activities."Ìý

Looking to find alumni near you?

• Wherever you are in the world, you won't be far from another UCL graduate! If you want to connect with other alumni in your region, visit our alumni groups page. Ìý
• Interested in helping to organise events in your area? Email alumni@ucl.ac.uk to register your interest.Ìý