Bora Kızılırmak, Marine Technology Management Engineering, SUNY Maritime College - ITU '10
I chose this program completely by chance. I was considering another profession, but during preference days my family convinced me to choose this program. I have never regretted my choice because, as time passed, my passion and love of this profession grew. Now, I believe I have found a lifelong career.
Enrolling in this program opened a door to a very different world and endless opportunities for me.. The opportunity to be in New York City was a very positive aspect of this education. If you haven’t studied at a boarding school before, you will find it very strange at first but you will get used to it very easily with the help of your friends and the school staff. It is a very good experience to live by yourself. Studying in uniform is also something that you will find strange at first, but you will like when you realize everybody is looking at you admiringly.
The education system of the United States is very different than ours. While studying, you must never forget that you have to be patient and calm all the time. All education is based on patience and rules. If you obey the rules, you will have a very easy and enjoyable education. Studying abroad helped me to speak English very fluently and gave me lots friends from all around the world. I am still in touch with my friends.
Having a dual diploma is very advantageous for your profession. When you graduate from a regular department, rarely you can choose a job as you wish and then be happy with your choice. This program provides you this opportunity and enables you to live the life you want. I would definitely choose the same program if I had to study again. When you are in working life, you understand that you had a very rewarding education. The difficulties you faced while you are a student helps you transition easily to working on ships.
After completing a dual diploma program, it is impossible for you to be unemployed after your graduation. Instead, you will be the person in demand. Since 2010, I have worked on chemical tankers. I am now working as a chief officer at Savarona Yacht. I am planning to return to work on chemical tankers later. It is nice to work on yachts, but it is better to work there after gaining experience on international cargo vessels as a captain. What you experience in a dual diploma program will help you for your entire life. I highly recommend this program to everyone.