Led by the Academic Student Coordination Unit (ASCU), the Faculty of Engineering initiated a program to connect engineering freshmen with 3rd and 4th year engineering students in 2016. Through this program, students new to the Faculty of Engineering have had the opportunity to join contact groups via WhatsApp in which volunteer 3rd and 4th year engineering students welcome freshmen and offer them guidance.
The program has continued to run this academic year, and the groups were formed earlier, in conjunction with the announcement of placement results. As a result, communication was in full swing by the time group members met face to face on campus last week over pizza and refreshments.
Here are comments from some senior volunteers who have taken part in the program:
“When I started at Bilkent, we were prevented from such an event due to Covid 19 restrictions. I realized what we’d missed as freshmen when I saw the effect of meeting face to face on campus. It is very important not only for freshman to meet each other but also for them to meet senior students to whom they may turn during their student life. I hope this program will continue for many generations and become a Bilkent Classic.”
Selimhan Tokat (CS/III)
“I thank Bilkent for this program, which not only enables freshmen to meet each other but also gives us the opportunity to open the doors of communication between them and us. It was a pleasure to be able to give them a warm welcome.”
Mürsel Semih Ada (ME/III)
“In 2019, I had the privilege of attending one of Bilkent’s distinguished meetings. This event showed me how much Bilkent values its students. I felt so lucky to be part of this family. Similarly, as a senior student, I was very happy to be able to take part in this year’s event. Observing the apparent excitement and joy reflected on the faces of the incoming students intensified my appreciation for the rich tradition and companionship that defines the Bilkent experience.”
Dilara Begüm Öcal (IE/IV)
“I express my gratitude to Bilkent for organizing this program, providing a platform for juniors to connect with each other and fostering communication between them and us, the seniors.”
Mustafa Cankan Balcı (III/EE)
