To celebrate the 20th year of our university, we have prepared a set of four questions to ask faculty and administrative personnel who have been with us since the beginning, and to our first students. They all tell "the story of 20 years" from their own perspectives.
Going in alphabetical order, this week's interviewee for "The Story of 20 Years" is Fikri Cebeci.
Fikri Cebeci has been a member of Sabancı University since August 17, 1997. A 23-year veteran of Sabancı University, he holds personnel badge number 14: he was the 14th person to be hired by the University. He has been President's Chauffeur since then.
Fikri Cebeci’s answers to our four questions are below.
What was your initial memory / impression of when you met Sabancı University for the first time?
F.C: Being one of the first employees, I remember the campus under construction. I still keep a photo I had taken in front of the Rectorate construction.
What are the differences between yourself 20 years ago and yourself today, and how did Sabancı University contribute to that change?
F.C: Sabancı University transformed my life greatly; I met some of the greatest minds in Turkey, starting with our Founding President, the late Tosun (Terzioğlu) Bey, and I learned a lot from them.
What comes into your mind when you think of Sabancı University in 20 years? What are your dreams for Sabancı University for the next 20 years? What about yourself?
F.C: I wish that Sabancı University continues to be a beacon for the youth and be an exceptional representative of Turkey on an international level. As for me, I hope to be in service of our University for as long as my time and health permit.
Where and how would you be now if your paths hadn't crossed with Sabancı University?
F.C: If I hadn't joined Sabancı University, I would have continued in my former position.
I will always be proud to be a part of Sabancı University.