Arzu Wasti: A Story Spanning Over 25 Years

Arzu Wasti: A Story Spanning Over 25 Years

Arzu Wasti, a professor in our university's Business School, shared with us her 25-year university experience, memories, and future visions.

Can you briefly introduce yourself? How long have you been at Sabancı University? Could you tell us about your work?

I've been at Sabancı University since its establishment in October 1999. During this time, I've taught undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral courses in organizational behavior, research methods, human resources management, and intercultural management. My research focuses on intercultural organizational behavior, particularly on topics such as organizational commitment, workplace trust, sexual harassment, and incivility.



During your time at Sabancı University, do you have any interesting memories and/or details you'd like to share about our university?

I'd especially like to talk about our founding years. Back then, every committee, every program, every decision was a first, and Sabancı University brought together many dedicated individuals. Because we were small, I served on almost every committee in the early years. I remember one Sunday I sent work-related messages to Zerrin Hanım, who was then head of Student Resources, and to the late Hilmi Çelik, who was head of the Information Center. Both responded immediately. I wasn't surprised at all, because everyone was truly dedicated to making this new university different and exemplary, working day and night whenever necessary.

Another detail I always remember: At one point, on the initiative of the late Tosun Terzioğlu, the professors living in the residences had their own vegetable gardens, which I believe are where the D residences are today. We'd meet there, especially on spring and summer afternoons, learn about farming from each other, and offer each other tomatoes and cucumbers. Now that we're offering a sustainability minor program at the university, I'm wishing we had the space to offer students a vegetable garden.

What distinguishes Sabancı University, which has been around for 25 years since its founding, and what innovations has it introduced to the field of higher education? (Research university, freedom to choose a program, etc.)

I think one of Sabancı University's most distinctive qualities is that it is an institution that puts a lot of thought into providing its students with a good education and a thought-provoking experience. While classes were being held online during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was curious, so I joined the IF100 Python course with permission from our professors. I was deeply proud of how well the professors designed their courses to enhance their students' knowledge and skills, creating various methods and opportunities for both brighter students to improve themselves and for more challenged students to avoid losing out. Of course, freedom to choose a program is a lifesaver, especially for children from our educational and family backgrounds, and this is evidenced by the consistently filled quotas.

From the research perspective, I would like to emphasize the support provided by the university, particularly through its Project Office. I also believe we are fortunate in terms of sabbaticals, research leave rights, and personal research funds.
 

Our university has achieved many successes in just 25 years. What can you say about its current status, its position, and its achievements?

Sabancı University's success is perhaps most evident in its growing international recognition. We are talking about a university that attracts both undergraduate and graduate students in this region, has placed its graduates globally, and whose academics have achieved internationally respected successes and collaborations.

Could you share your message about our 25th anniversary?

In a relatively short time for a university, Sabancı University has become a role model in Turkey, an institution of global pride for Turkey, and the home of my proud career. With endless gratitude to everyone who has made these 25 years truly worthwhile.

What are your dreams and expectations for our university's next 25 years?

I hope our university continues to lead the way in academic freedom and continues to be an institution that can, even if only to some extent, stem the tide of brain drain.