Julian Herwig, alumnus BA European Studies

Could you tell more about which minor/internship/exchange/field study you did?
This was actually another aspect of the ES programme that I found particularly appealing: the wide range of options for the fifth semester. In the end, I chose to complete an internship at the German Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal. Although there were excellent opportunities to go on Erasmus exchange, an embassy internship had always been my first choice.

The internship also aligned well with the overall focus of the programme. While I did not ultimately pursue a career in the Foreign Service, the experience was closely related to the path I eventually followed. It gave me valuable insight and helped me make more informed decisions about my professional trajectory.

Looking back, what are the things you learned during your studies that truly help you in your current career/experiences/personal life?
Beyond the obvious academic knowledge gained through the programme, the bachelor’s degree equipped me with essential skills to navigate the world of European politics, diplomacy, and policy-making.

I spent the first years of my career in Brussels, working in public affairs for a large European multinational company. Having a solid understanding of the dynamics of the so-called “EU bubble”, the interaction between EU institutions, and the many stakeholders involved proved invaluable, benefit me to this day. Although I am no longer primarily based in Brussels, the “bubble” has never quite let me go.

Could you tell us more about your current career?
I am currently responsible for International Relations and EU Affairs at SEAT S.A., based in Barcelona. In this role, I represent the political interests of the SEAT and CUPRA brands within the Volkswagen Group’s extensive Public Affairs network. I also represent both brands as well as the Group in Spain in their engagement with external stakeholders. 

In addition, I serve as the company’s main point of contact for embassies and consulates based in Spain, as well as for Spanish diplomatic missions abroad. Part of my role also involves coordinating the Volkswagen Group’s political activities in Spain.

I most enjoy the possibility to work in an international environment with people from a broad range of backgrounds on political issues that matter to me. My objective is to contribute as much as I can to the process of European integration and to promote the ideals that brought the EU about.

What is your fondest memory from your time here in Maastricht as a student at FASoS?
There are far too many great memories to choose just one. What stands out most to me, however, are the close friendships that developed through shared experiences — from the Inkom and long study sessions at the library (or at Twee Heeren), to economics lectures where we tried to wrap our heads around the Consumption Function.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your time in Maastricht/at FASoS that we have not asked about?
When writing this testimonial, I was thinking about my three years at FASoS, the programme, the people and the city. I would definitely do it all over again!

June 2026