29/08/2025
Ekin Savaş: "I'm so glad I'm a Sabancı student."
We chatted with Ekin Savaş, who hasn't lost her enthusiasm and motivation even four years after starting at our university, about her future goals and her feelings about our 25th anniversary.
Could you introduce yourself? Which faculty/program are you studying in?
I'm Ekin Savaş. I'm an Industrial Engineering student at the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences.
Are you involved in any clubs or sports teams?
I've tried to participate in the activities of the Industrial Engineering Society, which we call IES. I was also actively involved in the Tea Talks with CEOs club for a while.
What would you say about the things that distinguish Sabancı University from other universities? Its "freedom to choose a program," its "liberal approach," its "interdisciplinary approach," and the "Civic Involvement Projects" course, which is a required course in your first year? What made a difference for you?
Frankly, I had some questions before coming here, but over time, I realized I was beginning to discover myself. It was then that I realized how beneficial this system was for me, allowing me to see myself and be certain of what I wanted. I think we start this journey quite inexperienced when choosing a career. Many people are forced to choose their profession without even seeing it firsthand. When I came to Sabancı University, I was able to clearly see what I wanted thanks to the courses I took in every field, and that's how I chose my program.
The school's volunteering efforts, in addition to its academic support, really caught my attention. Immediately after taking the Civic Involvement Projects course, I applied and worked as a supervisor there. It gave me a different perspective. I believe this is a field everyone should be involved in. When you become self-aware and embark on this journey with the vision of "making a difference," you see yourself truly making a difference in yourself and those around you. I think this is a great opportunity.
Given the unique education and skills you've received from our university, what are your plans for after graduation? What are your dreams for contributing to both the business world and society?
After university, I plan to pursue a master's degree abroad, a dream I've had for years. The recognition of our school by universities abroad opens significant doors for us in this regard. Furthermore, by improving my German language skills in addition to English here, and by contributing to my own personal interests, the doors that open abroad are increasing even more. I will continue to maintain my connection with the university and provide the same support, both domestically and internationally, for Civic Involvement Projects. The sense of belonging this place has given me is invaluable to me.
How would you describe the progress Sabancı University has made in 25 years, based on what you've observed and learned?
Our university is a university that keeps up with innovations, integrating all kinds of developments to provide us with cutting-edge knowledge. It introduces students to innovations in many areas, such as the use of artificial intelligence. From what I've observed in every department, including my own, they create a space that opens and supports students to access these innovations. I believe it's a school that provides every opportunity to express ourselves and bring our ideas to life, with support through projects, social life, and many other activities.
Our university is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Could we get your 25th-anniversary message?
When asked, "Why Sabancı University?"—especially during summer info meetings—the first thing I say to families is, "I'm so glad I'm a Sabancı student." On this journey, I've built my own world and discovered myself. I can't imagine doing this anywhere else. Every morning, I wake up with the same excitement I felt when I first stepped into university. For four years, I've felt that excitement just like the first day, so I say again, "I'm so glad I'm a Sabancı student." I hope that many students after me will share that same feeling.
What are your dreams and predictions for our university for the next 25 years?
I have no doubt that we will continue to stay in touch, and as I mentioned earlier, I will feel the same excitement every time I step foot in the university for the next 25 years. I wish my university, which is constantly improving and offers a warm, homelike atmosphere, many more successes. I hope they touch the lives of many more young people like us and share the same feelings with them.
