A week ago, Jean-Claude Trichet, the former European Bank president, gave a master class to the most talented Erasmus students. Forty students participated, asked questions, and dined with some of the most influential Europeans.
Every year, the Mandeville Lecture honors people for their accomplishments to the society. This year, Trichet was chosen to give the lecture called “Towards a new economic European Governance”, followed by a few side events like the master class. It was a highly competitive affair where only honors students were allowed to apply, and they were selected based on their motivation letter, CV, and GPA.
Interest in economics
Tung Tung Chan was among the lucky ones who got to meet Trichet face to face, “a polite and respectful man”, according to her. Being a communications student does not stop Tung Tung from being interested in economics and following the European news; “as a student from Malaysia and having a Dutch boyfriend, it is very important for me to know if European Union will be the place for me to stay”.
Exclusive dinner party
After the class and the Q&A session, a dinner with Trichet, Dutch politicians and Erasmus academics took place, which was Tung Tung’s favourite part of the entire day. “It was so intellectually stimulating, discussing the financial future of Europe while having dinner – I am glad to know there are many intelligent people out there. This was the best opportunity the honours programme has brought me”.
Future predictions
Even though a committee picks the Mandeville lecturer each year, if it was up to Tung Tung, next year she would invite Angela Merkel. “She is one of the most powerful women in the EU and people listen to her”. MD
Tung Tung Chan in the master class
