Rector Durman: "Education Is a Starting Point, the Difference Lies in What You Do with It"
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman has shared important perspectives on young people's career journeys. Emphasizing that university is not simply a path to a diploma, Durman said, "Education gives you a strong foundation. What comes after is shaped by how you build on it."
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman spoke about how young people can distinguish themselves in a rapidly changing professional world. Noting that access to information has never been easier, Rector Durman said: "Today, everyone can reach the same information, but not everyone builds the same life. Those who stand out are the ones who can put what they have learned into practice."
In Durman's view, success in this new era is determined not by academic knowledge alone, but by the capacity to make decisions, take responsibility, and adapt to change. "The business world no longer looks only at what you know; it looks at how you use that knowledge."
“DON'T FEAR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, LEARN TO USE IT WELL”
Addressing the impact of artificial intelligence on professional life, Durman offered a direct response to the question many young people are asking: will AI take our jobs? "Yes, machines will perform certain tasks. That is inevitable. But decision-making, taking responsibility, and providing direction remain distinctly human capacities. Rather than fearing artificial intelligence, the priority should be learning to use it well," he said.
Durman noted that repetitive tasks are becoming increasingly automated, while human strengths in creativity, leadership, and problem-solving will become more valuable as a result.
“UNIVERSITY IS A REHEARSAL FOR LIFE”
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman observed that university education extends well beyond coursework, and that students must take an active role during their time at university. "University is a rehearsal for life. Do internships, develop projects, get involved in clubs, and test yourself. The real difference emerges through experience," he said.
Drawing attention to the role of character alongside knowledge, Durman added: "Being dependable, taking responsibility, and acting with integrity make a lasting difference over time."
“DON'T BE AFRAID TO MAKE MISTAKES”
Durman offered young people an important piece of advice: "Don't be afraid to make mistakes. A person who never makes mistakes is a person who never tries. What matters is what you learn from them." Stressing that success is built over time, he said: "Lasting achievement is not possible without discipline, consistency, and patience."
“CHOOSE WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU, NOT WHAT IS POPULAR”
Turning to the university selection process, Durman advised young people: "You don't have to follow the path everyone else is taking. Start by asking yourself: What kind of work do I actually want to do? The right choice begins with knowing yourself."
Noting that poor choices can cost valuable time, he said that well-considered decisions shape the course of a life over the long term.
“STUDYING ABROAD IS A TOOL, NOT AN END IN ITSELF”
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman acknowledged that studying abroad has become an increasingly popular choice in recent years, but stressed that the experience must be approached with clear purpose. "Going abroad is not an achievement in itself. What matters is how you make use of that time and what direction you take afterward," he said.
Durman also spoke to the value of an international perspective, noting that familiarity with different cultures and proficiency in foreign languages offer young people significant advantages.
THE RESURGENCE OF THE ARTS AND SKILLED TRADES
Pointing out that a growing range of fields, beyond large corporations, are gaining relevance, Durman said: "Areas such as gastronomy, the arts, and skilled trades are regaining value. People who develop expertise in these fields will always find their place."
"LIFELONG LEARNING IS NO LONGER OPTIONAL"
Reflecting on the pace of change, Durman said: "What was right yesterday may not be sufficient today. That is why lifelong learning is no longer a choice; it is a necessity."
"THOSE WHO ADAPT WILL ENDURE"
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman concluded with the following: "In this world, those who rise to the top will not necessarily be the most intelligent, but those who adapt to change most swiftly. Invest in yourselves, stay curious, keep learning, and don't give up."