The Faculty of Engineering and the Academic Student Coordination Unit (ASCU) recently hosted a picnic event on campus to bring together engineering freshmen and senior students involved in a mentorship program. Launched in 2016, the program connects new students with volunteer upperclassmen through WhatsApp groups to offer guidance and support. This year’s groups were formed earlier alongside placement results, and by the picnic, students were already actively communicating.
Freshmen and seniors met face-to-face to build connections and foster community spirit.Senior volunteers shared their experiences:
“As a fourth-year Industrial Engineering student, I was glad to meet the new members of our department. I tried to share my experiences as much as possible so that the challenges I faced could be easier for them. Since we usually spend most of our university life with our own classmates, an event that brings together different years is very valuable. I was satisfied to see a culture of solidarity being created and continued within the IE department.” MİNA AKTAŞ (IE/IV)
“This event has been a great way for new students to bond, share their concerns with students from higher years and maybe even ease the homesickness of those living away from their families for the first time. During the pandemic, the event had to be put on hold, so I never got the chance to experience it myself. Seeing the new students this year, I couldn’t help but think how much I would have loved to be part of it back then.” FURKAN İMİR (ME/IV)
“Being part of the organization team for this gathering was both fun and rewarding. Seeing the freshmen gather, ask questions and start building friendships reminded me of my own first weeks at Bilkent. Because I registered later than most students last year, this was the first time I’ve experienced such a welcome event, which made it even more meaningful to me. I enjoyed not only welcoming the new students but also helping things run smoothly behind the scenes. The pizzas and Berliners we shared added a casual and cheerful vibe, giving both freshman and seniors a chance to sit together and chat more comfortably. It was a chance to give back to the community that gave me so much last year, and I hope the freshmen will carry the same sense of belonging and support throughout their years at Bilkent.”
AHMET SENCER ALTUNDAŞ (ME/II)
“When we first came to Bilkent, our seniors helped us connect with each other and understand how things work here. This year, it has been both an honor and a fun experience to be the ones helping the freshmen. I hope everyone felt the same way I did.” BORA KAFADAR (CS/II)
