Student Testimonials
“When I first heard of the Turkey program I immediately knew that I wanted to go. I had expectations of what it would be like, and it sounds so cliché to say that it completely blew my previous thoughts out of the water, but that is exactly what it did. I saw, learned, and experienced so much more then I could have ever imagined. It is one thing to study about a culture from a classroom but to be immersed in their everyday way of life is the best way to really learn. As an instructor for this course Berch was very inspiring. There was nothing that he didn't encourage us to do and inform us about. For me leaving my friends and family to go to Turkey was a big step and I am so thankful everyday that I did. Istanbul is a memory that I will have forever and will always be a special place to me. I would do it again in a heartbeat!”
— Alissa Hertz (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2011)
“Istanbul is a truly fascinating city. In no other place is the clash between Western and Eastern culture so uniquely expressed and palpably experienced. Caught between its rich past and uncertain future, Istanbul is the perfect setting to study the cultural and political fabric of Turkey. I highly enjoyed this program; Berch's knowledge of Turkey was impressive and the diversity of sights and experiences I was exposed to provided me with a dynamic educational experience. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in the opportunity to experience and examine one of the most ancient, beautiful, and socio-politically intriguing cities in the world.”
— Cody Nolan (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2011)
“When I told my friends and family that I was going to Istanbul, they all looked at me funny and asked, “Why Istanbul?” I told them I wanted to do something unique, and I ended up getting one of the best experiences of my life. So, why Istanbul? Because it is a city built on a foundation of rich and diverse culture that offers something for everyone. You’ll be amazed to see how clean, friendly and safe a city of over 10 million can be. The people are some of the most hospitable and friendly, the sights are inspiring and dazzling, and there is nothing that comes close to competing with the food. Throughout the trip Berch provided us with all kinds of knowledge regarding politics, society, and culture as he guided us through this course and city with daily field trips. The knowledge gained from this course is not only interesting but also applicable to other areas of study. If you even think you might be interested in a trip like this and have been looking for a way to learn more about the world, then don’t hesitate for a second to sign up. At the end of the trip you will have no regrets and a special place in your heart for Istanbul.”
— Eric Wolfe (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2011)
“Istanbul is a beautiful city, full of exciting contrasts, and there is no better way to experience it than with someone who knows its history and development as much as Dr. Berberoglu does. I recommend this trip to anyone who wants to learn more about Turkey's rich history and its culture. In addition, having the opportunity to stay in a university in Istanbul and all the other perks you get from the course make it easier to enjoy the city in more depth. This was an awesome experience, and if you have the opportunity to go, don't hesitate!”
— Natalia Becerra Garzon (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2011)
“My experience in Turkey was absolutely amazing, and I am almost at a loss of words to describe everything, except that you want to talk for hours about everything you ate, saw, felt, smelled, heard, the people you talked to, and the things you did. Just incredible. I love Istanbul, it is a city of such contrasts and discoveries -- a lifetime is needed to experience it. I think you gave a fun, exciting, interesting, informative, and wonderful experience for those who want to learn about the historical, economic, sociological and anthropological aspects of the country. I loved the class, and would absolutely recommend it to any student. Thank you Berch for everything.”
— Elizabeth Motsenbocher (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2010)
“Going to Turkey was an incredible experience. Through the UNR extended studies class, I was not only able to see all of Istanbul and its culture, but I was also able to learn much of the city’s history and how Istanbul became the metropolitan and modernized city that it is today. I would most definitely recommend this class for anyone who loves experiencing new adventures and traveling the world.”
— Astrida Griswold (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2010)
“This program taught me so much about Istanbul and Turkey. Istanbul is a dynamic city that is culturally diverse and full of history. It was a very fulfilling experience and I recommend it for those interested in traveling and learning about other people to enroll in this course. Thanks again for taking us to Istanbul, Berch! It was a really great experience!”
— Bridget Guess (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2010)
“This two-week course in Istanbul far exceeded my nonexistent expectations of this trip in a region that I was far too unfamiliar with. There is so much to be seen in Istanbul, so many issues to understand and a whole array of perspectives to be experienced. The structure of this course offers rare insight to a country many Westerners probably know little about (historically, socially, and politically). The course is a combination tour and class, with long, but worthwhile days. It is different from a run of the mill tour in that you become one with the population (i.e., public transportation), which is essential in understanding everyday life. It is different than a class because you are learning on the go, free from the limitations of a walled classroom. Take this course to open your mind to something different, and you will be rewarded. The aesthetic beauty of the area in which the city is located should even be enough to convince you!”
— Josh Dyer (Turkey Study Abroad Course, 2010)
“I am so glad to hear that you will be continuing to offer the Turkey Study Abroad course in the coming years. It is such a wonderful experience. The living history, the fascinating culture of Istanbul, the beautiful sites and of course the incredible foods, it was all very exciting. I regard Istanbul as a truly unique and prominent city right in the center of our ever evolving world, and I consider myself lucky to have experienced so much of it. I couldn't have asked for a better professor and a guide; thank you so much Berch for all that you shared with us in Turkey.”
— Sammy Long, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2008).
"Istanbul was an amazing experience; every day was an exciting adventure. The clash of history and modernity provides plenty of options for education as well as leisure. Dr. Berberoglu provides the context (historical, cultural, and linguistic) with which you will be able to explore the city and discover things that you didn't even know you were looking for. My stay in Istanbul was a life changing experience, I would recommend this course to anyone who is interested in culture, history, politics, and/or traveling, this was my most memorable experience of my undergraduate career by far."
— Chris Cook, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2009)
“Of the three study abroad courses I've taken, this course was my favorite because it was the most educational and insightful. I walked away with both a strong knowledge of contemporary Turkish issues as well as an understanding of Turkish society and culture. Istanbul is a great city! It was amazing being able to explore the history and culture of such an ancient place. I would definitely go back."
— Jessica Eckhardt, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2008)
“Istanbul is a city that oozes history. It's the perfect starting place to unlock the mysteries of the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Turkey is undoubtedly an indulgence for the senses where any wanderlust or history-buff would love to go. I learned a lot and gained much experience during my class in Turkey. Also, Dr. Berberoğlu was hands down the best teacher and guide that one could ever desire. If you can go, GO!”
— Melissa Drapala, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2009)
"Be prepared for a non-stop educational and recreational adventure that will leave a lasting impression on how you view this dynamic and important region of the world. From ancient artifacts to contemporary culture in a globalizing nation, you will learn more than you could have ever imagined. You will soon discover why people come from all over the world to witness history in the making. This is not your typical vacation-be prepared to work hard, walk far, and sleep little. But the payoff is priceless! Because of Dr. Berberoglu's knowledge and street smarts, you will feel less like a typical American tourist and more like a sociologist/historian studying Turkish society firsthand. From crowded markets to breezy waterways to tranquil sunsets, this study abroad experience will leave you with lifelong memories and a better understanding of a different group of people in a different part of the world."
— Ryan Wilson, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2008)
"Istanbul offers a unique cultural tapestry as well as an opportunity to experience a city caught between the traditions of its history and the prospects of global integration. I highly recommend this course for anyone looking to directly appreciate the sights, sounds, and tastes of social life in a beautiful and dynamic metropolis."
— Ben Reynolds, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2009)
“The Turkey study abroad course is an amazing opportunity to engage yourself in your studies. After reading and discussing the rich Turkish history, politics and social groups we were able to go and actually see all the historical sites, people and places that we had read about in our books. Students can wake up and learn about a city from a textbook but rarely do they get to bring that experience to life. This course does that; it brings your studies to life by offering a combination of reading and seeing.
After spending time visiting places around the globe, I have yet to find a place as amazing as Istanbul, Turkey. The city has a vast amount of history, is geographically located in an interesting place, and allows you to interact with a diverse group of people. The city is one of the most beautiful places I've visited, with breath taking views in every direction. The culture, architecture, and geography combined make this city a truly fascinating place. Learning about the different places in Istanbul and then visiting them with knowledge of their historical underpinnings makes this course unlike any other I have ever experienced. I wish more courses were taught this way.”
— Brithany Thomson, Former President of the UNR Graduate Student Association (GSA) Turkey Study Abroad Course (2008).
"With the Turkey Study Abroad course, the classroom is Istanbul itself! Of course your professor will provide you with plenty of valuable background information, but he also realizes that the only way to really learn about Turkey and the beautiful and bustling city of Istanbul is to experience it firsthand with a knowledgeable guide (him!). Istanbul has a rich history and culture, and meeting its people while exploring its streets, waterways, and buildings is the best way to discover it. I couldn't have asked for a more unique learning opportunity and travel experience!"
— Heather Davis, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2008).
"Being exposed to another culture as rich and beautiful as Turkey’s is an occasion that no person should pass up. There is so many GREAT things I can say about this trip. For me it was truly life changing. The opportunity and education that I acquired was priceless. This course was the culmination of my Bachelor’s degree and a launching board into a career that is better than anything I could have dreamed of. In addition, I developed friendships that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Professor Berch Berberoglu was and is by far the best professor that I have had the opportunity to learn from. I am so blessed and lucky to have been one of his students. He truly values the development of his students, taking more of his personal time than any other professor has ever done for me. His contribution to this program was greatly appreciated by everyone. There is no question in my mind that when I start my Master’s program next year I will be returning to Turkey to pursue a Master’s degree."
— Kaleen Barnett, Turkey Study Abroad Course (2009)
