A Reflective Debut: Ters Ayna by RC Alumna Burcu Arkut Acun RC 04

Burcu Arkut Acun debuted her first book, Ters Ayna (Reverse Mirror, Ayrıkotu Yayınları), a contemplative work that brings together her background in architecture and design with inner awareness and personal reflection. Ters Ayna emerges from an ongoing exploration of the relationship one builds with oneself—and how that relationship quietly shapes the way the world is experienced.

Rather than offering direct answers, the book unfolds as a series of reflections that invite the reader inward. It lingers on questions of visibility and perception—what it means to be seen versus to be visible—while gently probing ideas of waiting and deserving, and whether belonging is tied to a place or a state of being. Through the recurring metaphor of the mirror, each chapter creates space for the reader to encounter their own inner voice.

Written in a calm yet unfiltered tone, Ters Ayna encourages a slower pace: to pause, to notice, and to remember. It shifts the focus from fixing to recognizing, from becoming someone else to returning to oneself. In doing so, it offers a quiet but resonant invitation—suggesting that much of what is sought externally may already exist within.

A Tradition of Scientific Excellence: Honoring Emerging Women in Science at Robert College

At Robert College, excellence in science is shaped not only by achievement, but by a sustained commitment to inquiry — the ability to question, to persist, and to think beyond the expected. Each year, this spirit is recognized through the Excellence in Science for Girls award, presented to an 11th grade student who demonstrates both academic distinction and a genuine engagement with scientific thought.

This year’s recipient stands out for her rigorous approach and intellectual clarity. Her work reflects a careful balance of analytical precision and curiosity, supported by a willingness to engage deeply with complex ideas rather than settling for immediate answers.

The award ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Prof. Dr. Özge Karadağ RC 97, Chair of the Department of Public Health at Bahçeşehir University Faculty of Medicine. Returning to campus as both an alumna and a leading academic, she addressed students with reflections on the evolving landscape of science and the importance of perseverance, interdisciplinary thinking, and public impact.

The award itself carries a longstanding legacy. This year marks the seventeenth presentation of the distinction established in honor of Prof. Seyhan Nurettin Eğe (ACG ’49) — an esteemed educator and scholar in organic chemistry whose work left a lasting impact on the field. Founded in 2009 by his sister, Dr. Güneş Eğe Akter (ACG ’52), the award was created to both recognize outstanding achievement in the sciences and to sustain his memory within the academic community. Although Dr. Akter passed away last year, her vision continues to endure through this meaningful initiative, which is presented annually to a female 11th grade student.

More than a measure of performance, the award highlights a particular mindset — one defined by persistence, independent thinking, and a thoughtful approach to problem-solving. It is this mindset that continues to shape Robert College’s approach to science education, where students are encouraged not only to succeed, but to explore and contribute meaningfully to their fields of interest.

The Excellence in Science for Girls award also reflects the school’s broader commitment to supporting young women in science, fostering an environment in which they can pursue their interests with confidence and envision themselves as part of a wider scientific community.

This year’s recognition marks both an individual achievement and the continuation of a long-standing tradition — one that values curiosity, integrity, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Ayşe Dedeoğlu Arkalı RC 98 Wins an Emmy for “Mixed Signals”

In March 2026, Ayşe Dedeoğlu Arkalı won the Children’s and Family Emmy Award for Outstanding Editing for an Animated Program at the 2026 Children’s & Family Creative Arts Emmy Awards. She received the honor for her work as an editor on the Disney+/Pixar series Win or Lose, specifically for the episode “Mixed Signals.”

Reflecting on the achievement, Arkalı said: “I’m so honored to have won an Emmy. This show was made by an extraordinary group of people who truly showed up for one another—just like the Pickles team in the story.”

Yasemin Sırali RC 97 Recognized For Her Sustainability Leadership by Fast Company

Fiba Group Sustainability Director Yasemin Sırali was recognized by Fast Company in March 2026 as one of the sustainability leaders creating a significant impact in Türkiye. This recognition follows an assessment of the Turkish sustainability landscape by a sizable jury composed of academics, global experts, and business leaders.

Sırali stated that the recognition brought her tremendous joy: “It reflects Fiba Group leadership’s commitment to continuous progress in our environmental and societal impact—and the exceptional team making it happen every day.”

Nuray Çiloğlu

This year, the Turkish Language and Literature Department mourns the loss of three retired teachers who each devoted years of meaningful service to their school. Nuray Çiloğlu is remembered with deep appreciation for her lasting contributions to generations of students.

Nuray Hoca served for 20 years from 1987 to 2007 as a Turkish Language and Literature teacher at Robert College, teaching both middle school and preparatory classes. She was deeply committed to her students and took great care in shaping her classroom environment. Each classroom she taught in became a distinctive space dedicated to language and literature—an experience her students will continue to remember.

She consistently took on responsibilities during holidays, commemorations, and school events, fulfilling each role with diligence and care.

After leaving Robert College, she settled in Eski Foça, İzmir, where she continued to lead a rich and fulfilling life. Together with her husband, Altan Bey—a painter and master of illumination—they cultivated a vibrant artistic and literary environment.

She will be remembered with gratitude, respect, and affection. May she rest in peace.

Netice Erişen Kargı

This year, the Turkish Language and Literature Department mourns the loss of three retired teachers who each made invaluable contributions to their school and community. Netice Erişen Kargı is remembered with deep respect and gratitude for her years of dedicated service in Robert College between 1967 and 1981.

Netice Hoca was, in every sense, a true Istanbul lady—graceful, refined, and deeply kind. She was known for her ability to encourage younger colleagues and for her genuine interest in the school community. Whenever encountered at special occasions, she would ask thoughtful questions, always eager to stay connected to the life of the school.

Her gentle, constructive, and compassionate nature will continue to live on in the memories of all who knew her. She carried herself with quiet dignity and warmth, leaving a lasting impression on both colleagues and students.

May she rest in peace, and may patience and strength be granted to all who loved her.

Ayla Kartal

This year, the Turkish Language and Literature Department mourns the loss of three retired teachers who each contributed greatly to their school during their years of service. Ayla Kartal is remembered as a devoted educator and a valued member of the department.

During her time at Robert College between 1994 and 2002, Ayla Hoca stood out with her remarkable energy and deep commitment to her work. She was a literature teacher who cared deeply about both her subject and her students, bringing passion and rigor into the classroom.

She had a strong enthusiasm for literary discussions, often leading conversations on poets, writers, and literary movements. With her intellectual curiosity and dynamic presence, she played a central role in these exchanges.

Her dedication to her profession and her vibrant energy remain an enduring example to colleagues and students alike.

May she rest in peace, and may patience and strength be granted to her family and loved ones.

Fatih Öğüt RC 81

The Robert College community is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. M. Fatih Öğüt, RC 81, on 12 October 2025, following a courageous battle.

A graduate of Saint Joseph Middle School in İzmir, Fatih transferred to Robert College through the Prep program, where he distinguished himself with academic rigor, scientific curiosity, and a lively, warm personality remembered fondly by his peers. Even during his early years, he stood out for his mathematical talent, playful wit, and the unique blend of humor and sincerity he brought to those around him.

He went on to become a professor at Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases. Combining his deep interest in mathematics, physics, and life sciences, he specialized in Audiology and developed impactful solutions for voice and speech disorders. Long before it was formally recognized as a discipline, his work reflected a pioneering approach to biomedical engineering in the field of ORL. He shared his knowledge generously through more than 170 publications and built meaningful, lasting relationships with his patients throughout his career.

He will be remembered as an energetic, warm, and inspiring member of the RC 81 community. His presence will continue to live on in the memories of his classmates and all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife and daughter. May he rest in peace.

Ferit Sabri Dağdelen RC 76

The Robert College community is deeply saddened by the passing of Ferit Sabri Dağdelen on 18 November 2025.

A friendship that began in 1971, with the start of coeducation at Robert College, grew into a lasting bond that continued for decades. Ferit remained a cherished presence among his close friends—Edha, Kerim, Osman, and Ömer—and will continue to be remembered whenever they come together, with one glass at the table forever missing.

He will be remembered for his warmth and ever-smiling face.

Tijen Okur İnce RC 81

The Robert College community is deeply saddened by the passing of Tijen Okur İnce, RC 81, on 27 May 2025, after a courageous 16-month battle against a relentless illness.

After graduating from Boston University with a degree in economics, Tijen built a career in the textile industry. Later, as her daughter İpek began her education, she chose to step away from professional life and devoted herself to volunteer work, focusing on the education of underprivileged children, particularly girls. Through her work with the Beykoz Konakları Foundation, she touched the lives of many young students, helping shape their paths toward brighter futures.

Alongside her social contributions, she pursued her artistic interests in painting and sculpture at the Mustafa Horasan Studio, expressing her deep connection to spirituality and Sufism through her work. She further expanded her engagement with art through postgraduate studies in Art Theory at Işık University.

She will be remembered as a radiant and uplifting presence within the RC 81 community. Her warmth, her laughter, and her enduring spirit will continue to live on in the memories of all who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved daughter. May she rest in peace.