Jillian Van Turnhout, class of 1986
Our next #HumansOfMuckross feature is ..
Jillian Van Turnhout - class of 1986
" I can’t honestly say I miss my school days, but I do miss the camaraderie. By being on the hockey team I was able to meet pupils from different years. Our year has a lovely online group for us all to connect. We have shared the highs and lows of our lives. If you are from our year then check out ‘Muckross 1986’ on Facebook "
" I can still remember the final show we did in sixth year for the school. One act was a sketch to the music of Uptown Girl followed by a re-enactment of the then Levi’s ad which involved a certain male teacher stripping down to his boxer shorts. I am trying to remember the other sketches. Fair dues to all involved for making it such a laughter filled day "
What are you up to now?
" I have a consultancy business providing governance, executive selection and advocacy services. In addition to my qualifications from INSEAD, I am currently undertaking the IoD Chartered Director programme. I also run Genealogy.ie providing specialist help in tracing Irish ancestry. Through my work, I am lucky to travel throughout Ireland and the wider world. "
Advice for your 18 year old self:
" Take time to lie in the grass and dream. Be ambitious! Then pick yourself up and make a plan on how you can reach your ambition. There is often more than one path to achieve your goal. Remember, there are lots of great women around who would be happy for you to make contact for advice or support. Use the network. Reach out and make contact " 💚
FUN FACT: In her late teen years, Jill got a part as an extra in a Jim Diamond video, the one after his hit ‘I should have known better’. She was typing in the background.
" I remember thinking the fee we received was huge. The song and video never took off and thus ended my acting career 😉"
Thanks very much for your input, Jillian. What a lovely read!! You get to nominate another past pupil to feature in this campaign ✳️
If anyone has any questions or comments for Jillian, please leave them below!
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