MUNCIE, Ind. -- Simply mentioning living in Botsford-Swinford Residence Hall and spending hours mastering the English language brings a smile and hearty laughter from Umit Taftali.

"Those were great times and I always have wonderful memories of my friends," said Taftali, who graduated from Ball State University with a bachelor's degree in finance. "I really should write a book about my experiences as a young man from Turkey who comes to America to play volleyball.

"It always felt like family here," he said. "It was a large school but had a small school feeling. My friends and I shared a lot of memories that I will never forget."

Taftali was back on campus after a 10-year hiatus as a special guest of President John Worthen to speak about international policy issues to university officials, faculty and students during Homecoming week, Sept. 27-Oct. 3.

The Turkish native used his college education at Ball State to create a career in international banking. He is executive director of Goldman Sachs International's banking business based in London. He also serves on the boards of several foundations and the Turkish-American Business Council. Taftali also has served as a business analyst for the Turkish national television network.

During Taftali's visit to the Whitinger Business Building, he received the International Award of Distinction from Neil Palomba, dean of the College of Business.

"Umit is an example of how a good educational background combined with dedication and talent can lead to success," Palomba said. "He is an outstanding alumni who has always had time for the college and the university."

Taftali fondly remembers the hard work it took to become an accomplished finance major as well as one of Ball State's outstanding volleyball players.

"It was great to play for a national powerhouse that wasn't in California," said Taftali, a former member of the Turkish national volleyball team. "Just like Ball State, we were considered underdogs by everyone. We never made it all the way to win the national championship, but we came close during my junior year.

"Retired coach Don Shondell was wonderful to play for," he said. "He was a wonderful coach and he helped to produce great players and coaches. But, more importantly, he helped to create great people."

Taftali plans to work with Ball State's International Programs to attract top Turkish students to come to the Midwest for their college education.

"I received a great education from Ball State because we have world class professors and all this helped make me what I am today," he said. "Not only do you get a solid education, you make wonderful friends for a lifetime. I want to encourage students to come here and enjoy what Ball State has to offer."