Those Who Live on Campus Know: A Delightful Interview with Our Student Zeynep Melis Ekşi

Those Who Live on Campus Know: A Delightful Interview with Our Student Zeynep Melis Ekşi

We spoke with Zeynep Melis Ekşi, a third-year student in the Computer Science and Engineering program, about her observations, feelings, and hopes for the future as someone who already lives and experiences the campus.

Can you introduce yourself? Which faculty/program are you studying in?

I'm Zeynep Melis Ekşi, a third-year student in the Computer Science and Engineering program at Sabancı University's Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences. I skipped the preparatory program. When I first started university, I was considering industrial engineering, but thanks to the courses I took and the department transfer opportunities at Sabancı University, I realized that computer engineering was a better fit for me and focused on this field. Throughout my university career, I've strived to improve myself in both technical and social areas
 

Are you involved in any clubs or sports teams within the university?

Yes, I'm actively involved in several student clubs. I'm currently the Sponsorship Coordinator for the Sabancı University Industrial Engineering Society. I previously served as Sponsorship Leader at the Quality and Productivity Club and the Sabancı Motorsport Club.

What are some of the things that distinguish Sabancı University from other universities? What would you say about "freedom to choose a program," "liberal approach," "interdisciplinary education approach," and the "Civic Involvement Projects" course, which is required in your first year? How did these make a difference for you?

Freedom to choose a program is a great advantage for many students who aren't yet sure what they want to pursue. When I first started university, I took courses in various fields, exploring my interests and gaining an interdisciplinary perspective. Civic Involvement Projects (CIP) helped me develop not only as a technical engineer but also as someone with a sense of responsibility towards society.

What are your thoughts on the research opportunities offered at Sabancı University?

Sabancı University offers a valuable environment that allows students to conduct research, even at the undergraduate level. It offers a highly supportive environment in terms of participation in projects, close communication with academics, and access to technical resources. This allows students to be exposed to a research culture at an early age. Our PROJ201 course and the PURE program contribute significantly to this. I also submitted PROJ201 when I started university and later had the opportunity to assist on a project I received. It was a wonderful experience. Currently, as part of the PURE program, I, our mentor, and my groupmates are conducting research on artificial intelligence.

Given the unique education and skills you've received from our university, what are your plans for after university? What are your dreams for both the business world and contributing to society?

Thanks to the versatile education Sabancı University has provided me, I feel I've been prepared for the professional world not only as an engineer but also as someone with effective communication and leadership skills. In the future, I aim to participate in projects that contribute to society through technology, and I particularly aim to work to increase the visibility of women in the technology field.

How would you describe the progress Sabancı University has made in 25 years, based on your observations and learnings?

Its transformation into one of Turkey's most respected universities in just 25 years is a testament to Sabancı University's visionary approach. Sabancı University has become an important representative of contemporary and innovative education, both through its academic achievements and the impact of its graduates on the sector.

Our university celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Could we get your 25th-anniversary message?

Happy anniversary, Sabancı! Being part of a quarter-century-long adventure is both humbling and inspiring. Just yesterday, I was losing my way on campus, but now its corridors feel like a second home. As a university that has touched and shaped the lives of countless students, I have full confidence that it will continue to support young people with the same passion in the years to come. I'm so glad you exist, Sabancı University, and I’m so glad I'm here.

What are your dreams and predictions for our university for the next 25 years?

I believe that Sabancı University will become an even more influential university in the next 25 years, not only in Turkey but also globally. I envision it becoming a center for pioneering work in areas such as artificial intelligence, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and ethical technology. I'm confident that by maintaining its student-centered approach, free-thinking environment, and interdisciplinary structure, it will touch the lives of more and more young people every day. I'm thinking, perhaps one day, after graduating, I too will be a part of this contribution. :)