VOLUME 2, 2020
ALUMNI – A FEW YEARS DOWN THE Julian Van der Waal Class of 1999 What are some of your fondest memories of your time at Somerset? Cycling with Mr Wand, Mr Day and Mr Jackson (rest in peace). The sports days (even though I was not fast in anything). Concert band, Jazz band and Sax ensemble with Adam Rowe and Luke Jackson, was one of the most enjoyable memories. How did Somerset shape your career path? There were so many amazing people who were so good at sports (from Sarah Korlarki to Sara Carrigan), incredible arts programmes and extensive academic orientated individuals. I actually felt dwarfed by it and yet at the same time found zero ego or discrimination for someone less academically inclined. I knew I had to find a path where talking to people would generate an income. Sales seemed to be a good fit.
Finally, it was due to the teachers, the students and the whole collective vibe of the College. Dedicated to success.
Everything the school provided and implemented was world class. I am truly grateful for the collective focus on the success of the individual, as well as the holistic approach to helping students realise their dreams. Scott Fields and Jason Short singing all around the world, Margot Robbie, Sara Carrigan, and I am sure countless more alumni success stories from all year levels. How do you spend a working day? Things have changed a lot over the past few years, we had a company in Adelaide and Hobart with 40 sales agents representing some of Australia’s most prolific NFP’s. Working with well over 3500 sales agents over the past 10 years has taught me a lot about human behaviour and created an immense platform of sales coaching and team development experience. My time previously was a juggle between two core companies and a few new ventures but since closing my main company at the start of 2019, I am a lot more relaxed. I drop my daughter/s off at school (four daughters under five-and-a-half has its moments!) I run through a few emails, call potential clients and attend appointments.
The Alumni Chapter
Cycling was one of the most contributing factors in the successes I have been so very blessed and fortunate to have. Training 600 kilometres+ a week during Years 11 and 12, and then after, up to 800 to 1000 kilometres, all for the dream of what Sara Carrigan was fortunate to have in her life, was a massive goal. I realised the journey to obtaining the goal, the inherent drive, commitment and dedication were far more valuable.
Julian with family
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