International relations at Ege University

Ege University...

Source

This university (at least Economics and administrative sciences department) is probably the typical example of a Turkish college. What is a Turkish university like?

Crowded - I could not believe it when I saw those classrooms (7x7m) full of chairs and desks (100seats). The classrooms are usually 1/2 - 2/3 full, so it's not as bad as it looks like.

Chaotic - When you arrive, you'll notice that your learning agreement is useless. I had to change 3/4 of my courses because they were not available or worse, were in Turkish instead of English (the list on the internet is incorrect). So that will be your first surprise.

When you start searching for new courses to get, for your ECTS, you'll find out there is a lack of courses in English (especialy if you are a student of higher year). However, you'll find them across the faculty. Do not be shy and visit the lecturers in their offices (especially Mr. Siret Hursoy and Tanju Tosun, these two are very helpful). I found the classes of Mr. Siret Hursoy to be the best in the department - especially Turkey-EU relations. This course was originally completely in Turkish which I don't understand. However, I found out a special course for Erasmus people and we also attended presentations/discussions with Turkish students (they were forced to make reviews and discussions in English).

"My/Our English is bad" - Yes, Turkish students don't usually want to have courses in English. Result? Courses are bilingual. In this situation, I recommend you to take courses from Mr. Tanju Tosun (Comparative political systems and Turksih political life); he'll give you some books to read, essays to write... And you'll study at home. He is a really nice guy!

Exams - You should not have problems to pass them if you study continuously (read materials and attend discussions). Just one try to pass the exams.

Best/Worst courses

The best - Turkey-EU relations, Turkish political life.

The worst - International politics. The lecturer just read powerpoint presentation in English (she won't share it with you), and another more important part is completely in Turkish. The exam was a multiple choice. I admit I failed this one :-(

Overall 7/10

If you can, just go!