A Year Abroad in Istanbul: Sophie Brun at Koç University

Being surrounded by water and trees (preferably under the sun) was an essential part of my year studying abroad. I have always loved the Mediterranean sea, but I had never been to the eastern coast. I wanted to combine an excellent education with ancient history, mixing different cultures that were unknown or unfamiliar to me. Until 7 October 2023, Cairo used to be my dream destination.

I finally set my eyes on Istanbul, for an incredible journey over different continents. Koç is the best university in the city, that's why I put it at the top of my list. Its exceptional location in the Belgrad Forest offers unforgettable views of the trees and the Black Sea.

The academic system is American-inspired, and most of the professors, who teach in English, were trained in the United States. Koç University has a sports hall, ice rink, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, football pitch, and coffee shops throughout the campus.

I was able to choose courses that suited my interests.

A course on organisational sociology was particularly stimulating as it provided a clear overview of theoretical and empirical developments in the human condition in the workplace.

I also enjoyed the course on existentialist political philosophy, although it was unexpected to read French authors Merleau-Ponty and Fanon in English and in Turkey!

As a born and raised Parisian, leaving my family and my country made me realise that broadening your horizons helps you grow. Facing completely new responsibilities, opportunities, and risks strengthens your mind and heart.

I have become better at analysing social and political situations, both academically and personally, and I have developed my instincts. I have also realised how slow Western media can be compared to Iranian civil channels on Telegram.

As part of my BASc dual degree in “Life Policies and Identities" with French Université Paris Cité, I spent a semester at Koç University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences, which involved an internship at the biology laboratory of the Department of Engineering.

This experience confirmed my affinity for the humanities and my desire to pursue a career in political communication in the field of public health. As for my choice of master's degree, I haven't decided between public health or media and communication. I'll make up my mind during my fourth year of BASc.