Tuğçe

About Me

I grew up in a small town in Çanakkale, always embracing a free-spirited and creative mindset. Seeing things from a different perspective has been a guiding principle in everything I do. I have a deep compassion for animals and find the greatest fulfillment in making a positive impact on those around me.
Throughout my journey, I have been an active member of organizations such as Kafessiz Türkiye, Engelsiz ODTÜ, and ODTÜ Judo Club, where I contributed to meaningful causes and team-driven initiatives. My Work and Travel experience in the U.S. was a transformative adventure, allowing me to work in five different jobs across various environments, broadening my adaptability and cultural awareness.
My biggest aspiration is to explore the world and immerse myself in diverse cultures. As an Industrial Engineer, I am committed to leveraging my analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and strategic mindset to drive efficiency and innovation. My peers often highlight my strong analytical thinking and adaptability, which I continuously refine to excel in dynamic environments.

Education

Middle East Technical University

Senior Grade, Industrial Engineering Student August, 2020 - Current

Starting my university journey at METU was a pivotal moment in my life. At the time, I couldn't have fully grasped its significance, but the diversity, challenging academic environment, strong network, serene campus, and lifelong friendships that METU offered have played a crucial role in my personal and professional growth. It was a period that illuminated my path toward becoming a proficient industrial engineer, helped me discover my true potential and taught me the true meaning of being a METU student.

Internship Experiences

Oyak-Renault

R&D Intern, Bursa, Turkiye August, 2024

I worked closely with the wider corporate team, observing and preparing formal documents. During this time, I collaborated alongside experienced professionals to learn best practices in corporate operations. Additionally, I contributed to the development of key business deliverables, gaining valuable insight into the overall workflow and operational strategies within the company.

TI Fluid Systems

Manufacturing Intern, Bursa, Turkiye July, 2024

I implemented a Kaizen project that successfully prevented an annual loss of €770 through process optimization and continuous improvement. Furthermore, I prepared and presented a detailed analysis on Hybrid Cars and IATF16949 standards, demonstrating both my technical expertise and strong communication skills.

Republic of Turkiye Ministry of Industry and Technology

Volunteer Intern, Çanakkale, Turkiye July, 2023

During my internship at the Ministry of Industry and Technology, I gained valuable insight into governmental processes and administrative operations. This experience significantly enhanced my understanding of public sector workflows and regulatory frameworks, providing me with a deeper comprehension of how government functions and the intricacies of public sector regulations.

Other Experiences

Engelsiz ODTÜ Society

Robotel Subgroup Coordinator August, 2023-January, 2025

In my role as a subgroup coordinator within a robotics community, I spearheaded a meaningful initiative focused on 3D printing prosthetic hands for children with wrist or elbow amputations. Our goal was to keep their muscle-neuron activity active and maintain their confidence until they could receive functional prosthetics. To ensure the sustainability of the project, I developed a comprehensive documentation system on a shared drive, which included step-by-step training videos, concise guides, and photos from our visits to the children’s families. This system not only streamlined the process for current members but also provided a valuable resource for future coordinators.

One of the most significant challenges I faced was the sudden lack of access to a 3D printer after the previous owner graduated. To address this, I proactively reached out to various individuals and organizations, successfully securing access to two 3D printers through collaborative efforts. This experience underscored the power of community support and the willingness of others to contribute to meaningful causes.

Beyond the technical aspects, I took on responsibilities such as promoting the community through presentations, engaging with institutions, and organizing events. These activities allowed me to hone essential skills, including communication, project management, and time management. Starting as a member and advancing to the role of coordinator within just one semester, I not only grew professionally but also formed deep connections with my team and the families we served.

This experience was both personally and professionally transformative, allowing me to contribute to a cause that directly impacts children’s lives while developing skills that will serve me in future endeavors. It reinforced my belief in the importance of teamwork, innovation, and community-driven solutions.

Cage-Free Turkiye

Campus Ambassador, Remote January-June, 2024

I was part of a meaningful initiative to promote the use of cage-free eggs, with the goal of improving the lives of chickens raised in harsh and inhumane conditions. During this time, I reached out to on-campus businesses, explaining egg production codes and the ethical benefits of cage-free practices. Thanks to the detailed training provided by Kafessiz Türkiye, I not only deepened my own understanding but also helped raise awareness among those around me. These sessions opened my eyes to the realities of chicken welfare and gave me the confidence to share this knowledge with others.

I also took this cause to the companies where I interned, giving presentations and even creating podcasts. My goal was to help these organizations understand the ethical and environmental benefits of cage-free eggs and encourage them to adopt more sustainable practices. These efforts led to small but meaningful changes, both on campus and in the workplace.

This project was not just about contributing to animal welfare—it also helped me grow. I improved my communication, teamwork, and project management skills, and being part of a community like Kafessiz Türkiye motivated me to connect with others and work toward a greater purpose. This experience wasn’t just about participating in a project; it was about being part of a movement for change. It taught me the power of collective action and left me with a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond words.

Work and Travel

Cultural Exchange Student, DE June-October, 2022

During my Work and Travel program, I had the incredible opportunity to work in five different roles, each of which allowed me to grow personally and professionally. By taking on diverse jobs, I was able to meet a wide range of people, enhance my skill set, and gain unique experiences that enriched my time abroad. Below, I’ve outlined my responsibilities and key takeaways from each role:
1. Barista
As a barista, I learned the art of crafting coffee and providing excellent customer service in a fast-paced environment. This role taught me how to work efficiently under pressure, communicate effectively with customers, and pay close attention to detail. I also developed teamwork skills by collaborating with colleagues to ensure smooth operations during busy hours. Interacting with people from different cultures while serving them their favorite beverages was a rewarding experience that improved my interpersonal skills.
2. Henna Tattoo Artist
Working as a henna tattoo artist allowed me to express my creativity while connecting with people on a personal level. I honed my artistic skills by designing intricate patterns and adapting to clients’ preferences. This role also required me to be patient, attentive, and customer-focused, as I often worked directly with individuals to create meaningful designs. It was a unique way to share a piece of my culture while learning about others’.
3. Housekeeper
As a housekeeper, I developed a strong work ethic and attention to detail. This role required me to maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization, ensuring that guests had a comfortable and pleasant experience. I learned the importance of time management and efficiency, as well as the value of working independently. This job taught me humility and the significance of every role in contributing to a positive environment.
4. Host
Working as a host improved my communication and organizational skills. I was responsible for greeting guests, managing reservations, and ensuring a smooth flow of operations in a busy setting. This role required me to be friendly, approachable, and solution-oriented, as I often dealt with customer inquiries and resolved issues. It was a great opportunity to enhance my problem-solving abilities and build confidence in handling diverse situations.
5. Arcade Ticket Attendant
As an arcade ticket attendant, I learned how to manage transactions, assist customers, and maintain a fun and engaging atmosphere. This role required me to be energetic and customer-focused, as I interacted with people of all ages. I also developed multitasking skills by handling ticket sales, addressing customer needs, and ensuring the arcade area was clean and well-organized. It was a lively and enjoyable experience that taught me the importance of creating a positive customer experience.

Known Languages

Turkish Fluent
English Advanced
Chinese HSK2
Japanese Basic

Get In Touch.

Feel free to reach out to me for any questions or opportunities. I'll get back to you as soon as possible.