Chemistry Department Students Wore Their White Coats

A White Coat Ceremony was held for first-year students of the Chemistry Department of Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) Faculty of Science and Letters. While the ceremony symbolized the first step of students in their professional journey, the opportunities offered by chemistry education, scientific research, student projects, and professional development opportunities were discussed.

Prof. Dr. Hale Seçilmiş, the Head of the Chemistry Department of MAKÜ Faculty of Science and Letters, spoke at the ceremony and provided information about the department's educational background and academic studies. Seçilmiş stated that the department, which started its educational activities in the 2008-2009 academic year, began accepting students again in 2023, expressing that they aim to train individuals equipped to conduct research and development activities in industrial organizations.

Prof. Dr. Seçilmiş reported that studies are being conducted in the fields of analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry, and organic chemistry, noting that the department's development is supported by undergraduate and graduate education activities backed by laboratory facilities, as well as international publications, research projects, and student works. Seçilmiş stated that students' academic and professional development is supported through chemistry days, congresses, orientation programs, and alumni meetings, wishing the students success in the new academic year.

A Call for Professional Development and Solidarity to Students

Ahmet Doğaner, the President of the Mediterranean Region Chemists Association, also emphasized the importance of the profession of chemistry, professional solidarity, and the need for students to develop themselves from their university years. Appreciating the academic staff and laboratory infrastructure of the Chemistry Department, Doğaner advised students to make the best use of their educational opportunities.

Providing information about the association's efforts to protect professional rights, organize congresses, and establish the Chamber of Chemists, Doğaner stated that students can receive support from the association during their internship, job search, and professional consulting processes.

Emphasizing the importance of curiosity, research, and gaining practical experience in professional success, Doğaner recommended that students participate in laboratory work to learn fundamental techniques. He also highlighted the importance of effectively utilizing artificial intelligence, stating that one should not give up on developing original ideas while benefiting from technological opportunities. He added that the association aims to contribute more to professional development through workshops, seminars, and meetings aimed at students.

“The white coat represents responsibility towards science and society”

Prof. Dr. Sevilay Özer, the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Letters at MAKÜ, stated that the white coat is not just a professional symbol, but also represents the trust placed in scientists and their responsibility towards society.

Calling on students to support their theoretical knowledge with scientific research throughout their university lives, Prof. Dr. Özer emphasized the importance of maintaining curiosity, asking questions, and not hesitating to try. He expressed that learning from mistakes and progressing with determination is crucial for achieving success, stating that professional development should be conducted alongside scientific ethical principles.

Prof. Dr. Özer pointed out that honesty, transparency, impartiality, and the understanding of benefiting society should be fundamental principles in professional life. He also mentioned the importance of teamwork and professional solidarity. Advising students to see each other not as competitors but as companions serving science and humanity, Özer thanked families and academics for their contributions.

Opportunities for Projects and Micro-Competencies for Students

Prof. Dr. Oğuz Gürsoy, the Vice Rector, stated that students should not limit their university education to classes alone, but should also participate in activities that support their professional and personal development.

Prof. Dr. Gürsoy expressed that the academic staff and laboratory infrastructure of the Chemistry Department offer significant opportunities to students, emphasizing the importance of acquiring knowledge and skills that will make a difference after graduation. In this context, he provided information about micro-competency programs, certified trainings, and TÜBİTAK 2209-A student research projects, noting that gaining additional competencies in areas of interest can enhance students' professional opportunities.

Prof. Dr. Gürsoy stated that gaining skills in various fields such as cosmetics, analysis, marketing, and entrepreneurship can contribute to the career development of chemists, and he also mentioned the opportunities offered by student communities in terms of social development and teamwork. He recommended that students seek support from their academic advisors, emphasizing the importance of working in accordance with safety rules in laboratories, as well as fostering a research culture and project development.

At the end of his speech, Prof. Dr. Gürsoy thanked those who contributed to the organization of the event, academics, and supporting institutions, wishing students a successful university life. Gürsoy also expressed his hope for a Nobel Prize-winning chemist to be invited to an event to be held at MAKÜ.

The ceremony marked one of the first steps in the professional and academic journey of first-year students of the Chemistry Department as they donned their white coats.