Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Where are you?
Where are my students at? I think I will do 2 interviews a week when I return since I haven't been able to interview anyone lately. I will interview everyone, so if you want an interview via email, email me now -- otherwise we will do a face to face interview :). Your choice!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Student Focus
Tuba seems like a quiet girl to me, but I think that is just because it is English class. She seems like a girl who is outgoing and fun to be around, but I don't get to see it (unfortunately). I hope Tuba keeps bringing herself out as the year goes on because there is a lot of good stuff under that quiet exterior.
Introducing Tuba!
Full Name: Tuba Elmas
What does your name mean?: It's a kind of tree that has fruit.
Why did your parents name you this?: Honestly I really don't know but I remembered that my father's friend said my name when they were 18 and I think my father liked it and gave it to me.
Place of Birth: Istanbul
Why were you born here?: My mother and father were born and lived in Istanbul, and also they met there. That's why i was born in Istanbul.
What will you do for a living after university?: I'll probably move to the US.
Age: 16
What hobbies do you have?: I love shopping and also I've been playing piano for 12 years and playing volleyball since I was 11 years old, but I quit it now. And I like writing poems.
Where do you want to go to school: I hope it'll be Princeton.
Brothers or sisters?: I've a twin, he is Tahir and also I've got a little sister who is 3 years old.
Embarrassing moment: Last summer when I was in the summer school some teachers chose me as the master of ceremonies and I accepted it. However I was very nervous and forgot my words, like I couldn't say anything for about 10 minutes but then I realized that there was nothing to do and I just pulled a word out of my head. Oh it was terrible.
What is your favorite thing to eat?: I love pizza and sushi.
What are you doing and where are you at 8pm at night?: I was at my friend's party with my friends and we really are having so much fun.
World’s worst problem: Wars. We're in 20th century and there are still wars about really silly things but because of these "unnecessary" reasons lots of people died.
Who is your hero?: My hero is my imagination. It makes me feel alive and strong.
What will you be doing 10 years from now?: I think i'll be a successful woman that can control everything in my life.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Whether I should be an IB student or non-IB student.
One word that describes you: Flawless :)
Introducing Tuba!
Full Name: Tuba Elmas
What does your name mean?: It's a kind of tree that has fruit.
Why did your parents name you this?: Honestly I really don't know but I remembered that my father's friend said my name when they were 18 and I think my father liked it and gave it to me.
Place of Birth: Istanbul
Why were you born here?: My mother and father were born and lived in Istanbul, and also they met there. That's why i was born in Istanbul.
What will you do for a living after university?: I'll probably move to the US.
Age: 16
What hobbies do you have?: I love shopping and also I've been playing piano for 12 years and playing volleyball since I was 11 years old, but I quit it now. And I like writing poems.
Where do you want to go to school: I hope it'll be Princeton.
Brothers or sisters?: I've a twin, he is Tahir and also I've got a little sister who is 3 years old.
Embarrassing moment: Last summer when I was in the summer school some teachers chose me as the master of ceremonies and I accepted it. However I was very nervous and forgot my words, like I couldn't say anything for about 10 minutes but then I realized that there was nothing to do and I just pulled a word out of my head. Oh it was terrible.
What is your favorite thing to eat?: I love pizza and sushi.
What are you doing and where are you at 8pm at night?: I was at my friend's party with my friends and we really are having so much fun.
World’s worst problem: Wars. We're in 20th century and there are still wars about really silly things but because of these "unnecessary" reasons lots of people died.
Who is your hero?: My hero is my imagination. It makes me feel alive and strong.
What will you be doing 10 years from now?: I think i'll be a successful woman that can control everything in my life.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Whether I should be an IB student or non-IB student.
One word that describes you: Flawless :)
Friday, December 5, 2008
Student Focus
Debora has what we call "an easy smile." She is able to smile about any situation, but not in a way that overpowers anyone else's ability to smile. It is just there on her face even when it isn't.
Debora is very laid back, but knows when to kick it in gear if the heat is on. She is a sweet girl who has a good understanding of the world around her and knows that time will pass no matter what happens, so she takes everything that happens in an easy way.
Here is Debora! The queen of serene!
What does your name mean?:I actually never knew the meaning of my name. I asked to my parents but they don't know it either.
Why did your parents name you this?: They wanted my name to start with the letter D because my grandmother's(mother's mother) name starts with D. My sister's name starts with J and my other grandmother's name starts with J also. Even though they don't know the meaning of Debora, they said that they gave me that name because they liked how it sounds.
Place of Birth: İstanbul-Avrupa Hastanesi
Why were you born here?: The doctor who gave the birth of my sister at Amerikan Hastanesi, transferred to Avrupa Hastanesi. My mother was pleased with his job the last time, so he wanted him to give my birth too.
What will you do for a living after university?: I haven't decided yet. I have a couple of ideas in my mind. Music and concerts are things that I enjoy the most in life so, I might work in a concert organization company and then have my own company. I also might work in my father's job. He has a textile company and sells shirts to brands all around the world, so he goes to meetings in different countries. I'm good at changing people's minds and make them buy the product so I think I might do that job too.
Age:15
What hobbies do you have?: Listening to music and discovering new artists, snowboarding, wake boarding, going to gym, running by the sea. I also used to play tennis a lot but I stopped playing after I hurt my knee.
Where do you want to go to school: I want to go to NYU because I like big cities and also it's a good university. If I don't get accepted to a good school in New York, I'll study at London because I also think that it's a good place to go to university. If non of these happen I would prefer staying at Istanbul because it's one of my favorite places in the world.
Brothers or sisters?: I have one sister. Her name is Jennifer. She graduated from Koç School 2 years ago. Now, she's a student at Parsons School of Design, in New York. I visited her last holiday but I still miss her a lot because without her the house is very quiet.
Embarrassing moment: Two or three weeks ago our car stopped by the petrol station near our school. I was in a hurry and also hungry so I ran to the market to buy something to eat. When I was about to enter the market I slipped and fell on my butt. I fell so badly that I could remember the moment which I was in the air. Because, the floor was wet my skirt became wet too. My butt hurt so much that I couldn't sleep on it for a week.
What are you doing and where are you at 8pm at night?: I am walking on my way home from my pilates lesson. Sometimes I might be sitting in my room waiting for my mother to come home. At 8pm I might also be eating dinner with my parents, at home.
Favorite movie: I have a couple of favourite movies - Crush, Troy and The Kite Runner are the ones which are in my mind right now.
World’s worst problem: Poverty, Education and Global Warming.
Who is your hero?: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, of course. Without him we wouldn't have a modern life and there wouldn't be Turkey. He fought for us and saved our land.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: It's being a FM or TM. Even though I have time to decide, it's really important for my grades next year. I have to decide weather Science or Turkish is better for me. I have to discover which one I like the most.
One word that describes you: ''MOODY.'' I can't control it.
Debora is very laid back, but knows when to kick it in gear if the heat is on. She is a sweet girl who has a good understanding of the world around her and knows that time will pass no matter what happens, so she takes everything that happens in an easy way.
Here is Debora! The queen of serene!
What does your name mean?:I actually never knew the meaning of my name. I asked to my parents but they don't know it either.
Why did your parents name you this?: They wanted my name to start with the letter D because my grandmother's(mother's mother) name starts with D. My sister's name starts with J and my other grandmother's name starts with J also. Even though they don't know the meaning of Debora, they said that they gave me that name because they liked how it sounds.
Place of Birth: İstanbul-Avrupa Hastanesi
Why were you born here?: The doctor who gave the birth of my sister at Amerikan Hastanesi, transferred to Avrupa Hastanesi. My mother was pleased with his job the last time, so he wanted him to give my birth too.
What will you do for a living after university?: I haven't decided yet. I have a couple of ideas in my mind. Music and concerts are things that I enjoy the most in life so, I might work in a concert organization company and then have my own company. I also might work in my father's job. He has a textile company and sells shirts to brands all around the world, so he goes to meetings in different countries. I'm good at changing people's minds and make them buy the product so I think I might do that job too.
Age:15
What hobbies do you have?: Listening to music and discovering new artists, snowboarding, wake boarding, going to gym, running by the sea. I also used to play tennis a lot but I stopped playing after I hurt my knee.
Where do you want to go to school: I want to go to NYU because I like big cities and also it's a good university. If I don't get accepted to a good school in New York, I'll study at London because I also think that it's a good place to go to university. If non of these happen I would prefer staying at Istanbul because it's one of my favorite places in the world.
Brothers or sisters?: I have one sister. Her name is Jennifer. She graduated from Koç School 2 years ago. Now, she's a student at Parsons School of Design, in New York. I visited her last holiday but I still miss her a lot because without her the house is very quiet.
Embarrassing moment: Two or three weeks ago our car stopped by the petrol station near our school. I was in a hurry and also hungry so I ran to the market to buy something to eat. When I was about to enter the market I slipped and fell on my butt. I fell so badly that I could remember the moment which I was in the air. Because, the floor was wet my skirt became wet too. My butt hurt so much that I couldn't sleep on it for a week.
What are you doing and where are you at 8pm at night?: I am walking on my way home from my pilates lesson. Sometimes I might be sitting in my room waiting for my mother to come home. At 8pm I might also be eating dinner with my parents, at home.
Favorite movie: I have a couple of favourite movies - Crush, Troy and The Kite Runner are the ones which are in my mind right now.
World’s worst problem: Poverty, Education and Global Warming.
Who is your hero?: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, of course. Without him we wouldn't have a modern life and there wouldn't be Turkey. He fought for us and saved our land.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: It's being a FM or TM. Even though I have time to decide, it's really important for my grades next year. I have to decide weather Science or Turkish is better for me. I have to discover which one I like the most.
One word that describes you: ''MOODY.'' I can't control it.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Student Focus
Benan is sometimes a quiet girl, but sometimes she is also very socially active. Her personlity depends a lot on how she is feeling on a certain day (or maybe how much sleep she got). Benan is a sweet girl who seems to be the kind of friend who would help no matter what the situation may be. She will support her friends no matter what it takes.
Introducing Benan!
Full Name: Benan Terzioğlu
What does your name mean?: It means when a person points to a really beautiful person.
Why did your parents name you this?: Because my mom likes it. She said that she heard this name when she was 18 and thought that it was unusual and original, not ordinary.
Place of Birth: Istanbul / American Hospital
Why were you born here?: Because my mom's doctor was working there. My mom is from Switzerland and my dad is from Istanbul. My mom moved here and met with my dad and they started to live together here.
What will you do for a living after university?:I will live in the US a bit and then I will return to Turkey to become a successful interior designer or an architect.
Age: 16 yrs old
What hobbies do you have?: Windsurfing, dancing and painting. They make me feel free.
Where do you want to go to school: Parsons or Rhode Island School of Design because they both are excellent design schools.
Brothers or sisters?:I have a sister. She is 11 years old. Her name is Elvan and she goes to Üskudar American Academy. She is really pretty.
Embarrassing moment: It's a hard question to answer. I guess something private.
What are you doing and where are you at 8pm at night?:Last night I was going to my friend Cem's house.
Favorite movie: Atonement, 21, ıssız adam(a Turkish movie)
World’s worst problem: World's economic crisis and global warming I guess.
Who is your hero?: My hero is myself.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Whether to be a Turkish Math or Science Math student, or if I should be in IB or be a non IB student.
One word that describes you: Uncontrollable.
Introducing Benan!
Full Name: Benan Terzioğlu
What does your name mean?: It means when a person points to a really beautiful person.
Why did your parents name you this?: Because my mom likes it. She said that she heard this name when she was 18 and thought that it was unusual and original, not ordinary.
Place of Birth: Istanbul / American Hospital
Why were you born here?: Because my mom's doctor was working there. My mom is from Switzerland and my dad is from Istanbul. My mom moved here and met with my dad and they started to live together here.
What will you do for a living after university?:I will live in the US a bit and then I will return to Turkey to become a successful interior designer or an architect.
Age: 16 yrs old
What hobbies do you have?: Windsurfing, dancing and painting. They make me feel free.
Where do you want to go to school: Parsons or Rhode Island School of Design because they both are excellent design schools.
Brothers or sisters?:I have a sister. She is 11 years old. Her name is Elvan and she goes to Üskudar American Academy. She is really pretty.
Embarrassing moment: It's a hard question to answer. I guess something private.
What are you doing and where are you at 8pm at night?:Last night I was going to my friend Cem's house.
Favorite movie: Atonement, 21, ıssız adam(a Turkish movie)
World’s worst problem: World's economic crisis and global warming I guess.
Who is your hero?: My hero is myself.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Whether to be a Turkish Math or Science Math student, or if I should be in IB or be a non IB student.
One word that describes you: Uncontrollable.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Student Focus
From the moment I set eyes on Buğce I knew I was going to have someone who would challenge the things I said and be inquisitive and curious. I always love this type of student as long as they also listen to what I respond with and eventually understand what it is I am trying to do for them as a teacher. Buğce sees this and knows that I want to help everyone in the class succeed while also challenging them to do better.
She is a girl who definitely is not embarrassed by much (which is what she says in the interview) and someone who would be fun to hang out with because of her laid back attitude. Here is where you can get to know her more. Introducing Buğce!
Full Name: Buğce Güler
What does your name mean?: The first snow flake that falls to the ground.
Why did your parents name you this?: I have no idea. Maybe to be different than other names.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul at Bakırkoy – The International Hospital
Why were you born here?: My mom was born in Izmir after she was twelve she came to İstanbul with her family. I don’t know why, but we still go to Izmir. There are not many people with whom we speak from the family, but we go there to go to Çeşme and my mom opened a new boutique in Izmir. My dad has always lived in İstanbul. He has done the same job for 26 yrs. Before he was working with his father at his father’s factory and then he opened his own factory. After he married my mom, my mom also wanted to work, though my dad said “you don’t need to” But she started to work as a finance officer. Then she became the top designer of our company and now she has a brand name B and G for four years and that’s all. I think that she is very good.
Is that what you will do?: Yes. I also want to be a designer and be educated at Parsons which is in the US. So, I hope to be an IB student.
Age: 14 yrs
What hobbies do you have?: Now I am on the basketball team of our school. I used to be on the volleyball team for 4 yrs on the school team and I used to do Motocross, but now I am not doing it because I fell down while I was training for a competition. The ambulance took me to the hospital, but I don’t think it was very serious. My eyes went white and I couldn’t breathe. I also play tennis now.
Where do you want to go to school: FIT maybe...besides Parsons.
Brothers or sisters?: Yes. I have a brother. He is 8 and he is in the Acı School near Akmerkez.
Embarrassing moment: I guess I don’t have one. I do, but I know what I am doing, so I don’t get embarrassed of the things I am doing usually.
Favorite movie: There are lots of movies that I like, but the movie The Notebook was pretty nice. It was a classic love story actually, but I still liked it. Usually romance makes me cry.
World’s worst problem: I need to think about it because it is a very serious question and I don’t want to give a regular answer for this.
Who is your hero?: My dad used to be my hero, but I don’t know why now. I don’t believe that he is strong enough. I don’t know. I can’t answer this question.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: I need to think about whether to choose Science/Math or Turkish classes.
One word that describes you: What do you think it is? (You have to answer that...) "Shopaholic" and "Talkative" maybe.
She is a girl who definitely is not embarrassed by much (which is what she says in the interview) and someone who would be fun to hang out with because of her laid back attitude. Here is where you can get to know her more. Introducing Buğce!
Full Name: Buğce Güler
What does your name mean?: The first snow flake that falls to the ground.
Why did your parents name you this?: I have no idea. Maybe to be different than other names.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul at Bakırkoy – The International Hospital
Why were you born here?: My mom was born in Izmir after she was twelve she came to İstanbul with her family. I don’t know why, but we still go to Izmir. There are not many people with whom we speak from the family, but we go there to go to Çeşme and my mom opened a new boutique in Izmir. My dad has always lived in İstanbul. He has done the same job for 26 yrs. Before he was working with his father at his father’s factory and then he opened his own factory. After he married my mom, my mom also wanted to work, though my dad said “you don’t need to” But she started to work as a finance officer. Then she became the top designer of our company and now she has a brand name B and G for four years and that’s all. I think that she is very good.
Is that what you will do?: Yes. I also want to be a designer and be educated at Parsons which is in the US. So, I hope to be an IB student.
Age: 14 yrs
What hobbies do you have?: Now I am on the basketball team of our school. I used to be on the volleyball team for 4 yrs on the school team and I used to do Motocross, but now I am not doing it because I fell down while I was training for a competition. The ambulance took me to the hospital, but I don’t think it was very serious. My eyes went white and I couldn’t breathe. I also play tennis now.
Where do you want to go to school: FIT maybe...besides Parsons.
Brothers or sisters?: Yes. I have a brother. He is 8 and he is in the Acı School near Akmerkez.
Embarrassing moment: I guess I don’t have one. I do, but I know what I am doing, so I don’t get embarrassed of the things I am doing usually.
Favorite movie: There are lots of movies that I like, but the movie The Notebook was pretty nice. It was a classic love story actually, but I still liked it. Usually romance makes me cry.
World’s worst problem: I need to think about it because it is a very serious question and I don’t want to give a regular answer for this.
Who is your hero?: My dad used to be my hero, but I don’t know why now. I don’t believe that he is strong enough. I don’t know. I can’t answer this question.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: I need to think about whether to choose Science/Math or Turkish classes.
One word that describes you: What do you think it is? (You have to answer that...) "Shopaholic" and "Talkative" maybe.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Interview Subjects!
Calling all interview subjects! If you want to be interviewed via email, just comment to this post letting me know you will check your email for the interview questions within the next few days.
Whoever responds, I will send a list of questions that I would like you to answer. I will also probably send a follow up email with additional questions because I always have some other things I want to ask after I learn a bit more about you.
Hope to be in contact soon! Remember - I have all of your email addresses, but if you think you gave me an address that you do not check -- feel free to email me with a new email address.
Thanks!
Whoever responds, I will send a list of questions that I would like you to answer. I will also probably send a follow up email with additional questions because I always have some other things I want to ask after I learn a bit more about you.
Hope to be in contact soon! Remember - I have all of your email addresses, but if you think you gave me an address that you do not check -- feel free to email me with a new email address.
Thanks!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Student Focus
Ecem is a great girl who views life as something that is quite easy to live. With a lot of support and some time, she knows that anything she wants to do will be quite simple.
Introducing the very focused yet very laid back Ecem!
Full Name: Ecem Şenyuva
What does your name mean?: My queen –Ece means queen – so Ecem means my queen.
Why did your parents name you this?: My mom decided to name her first daughter Nazlı, but I didn’t have a name for 2 weeks. I don't know why.
Place of Birth: İstanbul – Cerrahpasa Tip Fakultesi
Why were you born here?: My mom used to work there, so the doctors were her friends, so it was good she knew the doctors.
Age: 15 yrs
Have you always lived in Istanbul: Yes, but I have moved like 8 times because of school and my mom’s and dad’s job. My mom is a general surgeon and my dad is a plastic surgeon professor. He goes to the University twice a week.
What hobbies do you have?: I have played basketball since third grade. I played piano. I have done SCUBA and windsurfing.
Where do you want to go to school: I came to Koç because I want to go to University in the US. My sister goes to Princeton. She is studying biomedical engineering.
What do you want to study?: I don’t know, but if I try to be a doctor it will be so easy. Sometimes I still want to be a star in Hollywood. (laughs) That is kind of like every girl’s dream.
Brothers or sisters?: I have one sister and she is 18yrs old. No brothers. Only her. I am alone right now. She is my best friend in the whole world and the greatest person I ever met. She will come back home in December and then I will go visit her in February.
Embarrassing moment: We used to go to extra courses for HS after school to prepared for HS. It was the graduation party of that course and before we were given the certificates, they were announcing our names they would have a sort of an introduction. So for mine, the teacher said nice things and I thought it was me and went to the stage and then it turned out that it was someone else and I was standing on the stage.
Favorite movie: I have four actually: Children of Men, The Devil Wears Prada, Atonement and Gladiator.
World’s worst problem: War, Global Warming, and Education
Something people would be surprised to know about you: When I am in places that I am not familiar with I am so shy, but when I get used it I am the real Ecem. It has taken a month and a half here I guess. It depends on the students and the teachers of course.
Who is your hero?: Our leader Ataturk and my mom. I know everything about Ataturk, like how he saved us, and still we feel how he affected us and we try to protect him. My mom because she taught me everything I learned and “Made me who I am today.”
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Being in the IB program and going to University.
One word that describes you: I love sharing. Maybe “outgoing.”
Introducing the very focused yet very laid back Ecem!
Full Name: Ecem Şenyuva
What does your name mean?: My queen –Ece means queen – so Ecem means my queen.
Why did your parents name you this?: My mom decided to name her first daughter Nazlı, but I didn’t have a name for 2 weeks. I don't know why.
Place of Birth: İstanbul – Cerrahpasa Tip Fakultesi
Why were you born here?: My mom used to work there, so the doctors were her friends, so it was good she knew the doctors.
Age: 15 yrs
Have you always lived in Istanbul: Yes, but I have moved like 8 times because of school and my mom’s and dad’s job. My mom is a general surgeon and my dad is a plastic surgeon professor. He goes to the University twice a week.
What hobbies do you have?: I have played basketball since third grade. I played piano. I have done SCUBA and windsurfing.
Where do you want to go to school: I came to Koç because I want to go to University in the US. My sister goes to Princeton. She is studying biomedical engineering.
What do you want to study?: I don’t know, but if I try to be a doctor it will be so easy. Sometimes I still want to be a star in Hollywood. (laughs) That is kind of like every girl’s dream.
Brothers or sisters?: I have one sister and she is 18yrs old. No brothers. Only her. I am alone right now. She is my best friend in the whole world and the greatest person I ever met. She will come back home in December and then I will go visit her in February.
Embarrassing moment: We used to go to extra courses for HS after school to prepared for HS. It was the graduation party of that course and before we were given the certificates, they were announcing our names they would have a sort of an introduction. So for mine, the teacher said nice things and I thought it was me and went to the stage and then it turned out that it was someone else and I was standing on the stage.
Favorite movie: I have four actually: Children of Men, The Devil Wears Prada, Atonement and Gladiator.
World’s worst problem: War, Global Warming, and Education
Something people would be surprised to know about you: When I am in places that I am not familiar with I am so shy, but when I get used it I am the real Ecem. It has taken a month and a half here I guess. It depends on the students and the teachers of course.
Who is your hero?: Our leader Ataturk and my mom. I know everything about Ataturk, like how he saved us, and still we feel how he affected us and we try to protect him. My mom because she taught me everything I learned and “Made me who I am today.”
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Being in the IB program and going to University.
One word that describes you: I love sharing. Maybe “outgoing.”
Friday, November 7, 2008
Student Focus
I can see the passion in Orhun's eyes. Orhun has goals set ahead of him and he would like to achieve them all. However, he wants to help bring everyone else with him also. He is the kind of person you want on your team and maybe even leading your team.
Here is a glimpse of Orhun Gural...
Full Name: Orhun Gural
No second name or anything?: No. Well, Mehmet Orhun Gural. I hate that name. It is an old name, not a modern name.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul –International Hospital.
Why were you born here?: My mom was born in Ankara and then she lived in the South for a time and then came to Uskudar American. My dad has always lived in Istanbul.
Age: 15 yrs old
What hobbies do you have?: Tennis. Watching TV. I have been playing tennis since I was 7 and I also like cars.
What TV shows do you like?: I like Lost and House. My sister used to watch them, so I started watching them too.
Where do you want to go to school: I want to go to the US. Like Stanford or UPENN maybe. I would go to Washington U. also. I know they have good chemical engineering programs.
Brothers or sisters?: Yeah. I have a sister. She is 19. She is at Washington U. in St. Louis.
At 8pm at night you are: Listening to my favorite music at a very high volume.
Favorite movie: I like French - La Vie en Rose. It is about the life of a really famous French singer. I like Fahrenheit 911 and Persepolis.
Favorite Holiday: When I was in the 8th grade we went to Moscow for ISTA. I really enjoyed it. We performed for people and got to watch some performances.
Something people would be surprised to know about you: I know how to read Russian. I opened Wikipedia and taught the letters to myself. I can just read a few words. (Mrs Clark: I am really impressed.)
Who is your hero?: My sister is my hero.
One word that describes you: Warm. I am a warm-blooded person. Like sympathetic.
Here is a glimpse of Orhun Gural...
Full Name: Orhun Gural
No second name or anything?: No. Well, Mehmet Orhun Gural. I hate that name. It is an old name, not a modern name.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul –International Hospital.
Why were you born here?: My mom was born in Ankara and then she lived in the South for a time and then came to Uskudar American. My dad has always lived in Istanbul.
Age: 15 yrs old
What hobbies do you have?: Tennis. Watching TV. I have been playing tennis since I was 7 and I also like cars.
What TV shows do you like?: I like Lost and House. My sister used to watch them, so I started watching them too.
Where do you want to go to school: I want to go to the US. Like Stanford or UPENN maybe. I would go to Washington U. also. I know they have good chemical engineering programs.
Brothers or sisters?: Yeah. I have a sister. She is 19. She is at Washington U. in St. Louis.
At 8pm at night you are: Listening to my favorite music at a very high volume.
Favorite movie: I like French - La Vie en Rose. It is about the life of a really famous French singer. I like Fahrenheit 911 and Persepolis.
Favorite Holiday: When I was in the 8th grade we went to Moscow for ISTA. I really enjoyed it. We performed for people and got to watch some performances.
Something people would be surprised to know about you: I know how to read Russian. I opened Wikipedia and taught the letters to myself. I can just read a few words. (Mrs Clark: I am really impressed.)
Who is your hero?: My sister is my hero.
One word that describes you: Warm. I am a warm-blooded person. Like sympathetic.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Student Focus
Nurefşan is the kind of girl who shows her emotions on her sleeve. She always seems like she has other ideas in her mind that are her own and she lets no one else determine what they will be. Nurefşan is full of surprises and likes to test people in authority to make sure they know what they are doing. She is cute and spunky and everything you would want in a cheerleader, but she is definitely not a cheerleader.
Introducing Nurefşan!
Full Name: Nurefşan Erkan
What does your name mean?: My name means “light source.” "Nur" is the light, which is a very special light and “efşan” means the source.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul –Kadikoy Şifa Hospital.
Why were you born here?: My parents were living in Kayseri, but like 10 yrs before I was born they moved to İstanbul for my dad’s job. Kayseri was small those days, so they wanted to move into a bigger, more popular place for culture and education.
Age: 14 yrs old
Locations you lived: When I was like 2 yrs old, I was kind of living in Seattle. I mean, we were coming to İstanbul those days cause my father was still here, but we were spending some days in Seattle because my brother was going to school there. Also, we have a house in Orlando, FL. And we don’t have a green card, unfortunately. My brother is not living in the States, but the job he has here he also has there. At the moment he is working with my dad, but he is a drag racer and makes racing cars.
What hobbies do you have?: Spending time on the computer and talking to my friend Teo. Also, going out to skateboard.
Where do you want to go to school: I want to go to school in Canada or Norway. I want to go to Canada cause I have lots of friends there whom I want to meet and spend time with. That’s why I want to go to Canada. I want to go to Norway because Sofie and Teo are there and lots and lots of people are there who I want to see. I also think Japan would be nice because I like the culture, but it would be hard I think.
Brothers or sisters?: I have a sister and a brother and also a person who is like a twin to me. My sister is 26 yrs old and my brother is 28 yrs old. And my twin is 14. He lives in Norway and his name is Teo. I met him through a friend, but we never met each other, we only talk on the internet.
What do your parents think about this?: They like him because he is a very cute person, but they don’t like the way we look. We wear black and listen to metal music and my parents don’t like that.
At 8pm at night you are: I would be at home looking at my laptop screen and “talking” to someone in a very hyper way.
Embarrassing moment: When I was in the States we were walking in the mall, and then there was this very cute boy. I was only 12 yrs old and I think he was about 15 or 16 and I was begging to hug him. It was kind of stupid, but what can I do, he was so cute.
Favorite movie: I like The Fast and the Furious series.
Favorite Holiday: Halloween. We are having a party at my friend’s house. It is a good time for scary kids to scare kids.
World’s worst problem: People don’t care about animal rights and also Global Warming.
Something people would be surprised to know about you: I have a husband...just joking...ummm...I am a half vegetarian. I don’t eat meat and things, but sometimes I just can’t resist. I am trying to be a vegetarian. That is what I really want to be, but it is kind of hard because of my family.
Who is your hero?: My hero is Audrey Kitching – she is a model and designer in the United States. And my other hero is my friends Chris, Teo and Sofie.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Whether to go to Canada or Norway as an exchange student.
One word that describes you: Hyper.
Reminder: Write a final draft of either your "Büyükada" article OR your "Strike at the Birling Factory" article for Monday. Ms. Sevimli will be collecting them.
Introducing Nurefşan!
Full Name: Nurefşan Erkan
What does your name mean?: My name means “light source.” "Nur" is the light, which is a very special light and “efşan” means the source.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul –Kadikoy Şifa Hospital.
Why were you born here?: My parents were living in Kayseri, but like 10 yrs before I was born they moved to İstanbul for my dad’s job. Kayseri was small those days, so they wanted to move into a bigger, more popular place for culture and education.
Age: 14 yrs old
Locations you lived: When I was like 2 yrs old, I was kind of living in Seattle. I mean, we were coming to İstanbul those days cause my father was still here, but we were spending some days in Seattle because my brother was going to school there. Also, we have a house in Orlando, FL. And we don’t have a green card, unfortunately. My brother is not living in the States, but the job he has here he also has there. At the moment he is working with my dad, but he is a drag racer and makes racing cars.
What hobbies do you have?: Spending time on the computer and talking to my friend Teo. Also, going out to skateboard.
Where do you want to go to school: I want to go to school in Canada or Norway. I want to go to Canada cause I have lots of friends there whom I want to meet and spend time with. That’s why I want to go to Canada. I want to go to Norway because Sofie and Teo are there and lots and lots of people are there who I want to see. I also think Japan would be nice because I like the culture, but it would be hard I think.
Brothers or sisters?: I have a sister and a brother and also a person who is like a twin to me. My sister is 26 yrs old and my brother is 28 yrs old. And my twin is 14. He lives in Norway and his name is Teo. I met him through a friend, but we never met each other, we only talk on the internet.
What do your parents think about this?: They like him because he is a very cute person, but they don’t like the way we look. We wear black and listen to metal music and my parents don’t like that.
At 8pm at night you are: I would be at home looking at my laptop screen and “talking” to someone in a very hyper way.
Embarrassing moment: When I was in the States we were walking in the mall, and then there was this very cute boy. I was only 12 yrs old and I think he was about 15 or 16 and I was begging to hug him. It was kind of stupid, but what can I do, he was so cute.
Favorite movie: I like The Fast and the Furious series.
Favorite Holiday: Halloween. We are having a party at my friend’s house. It is a good time for scary kids to scare kids.
World’s worst problem: People don’t care about animal rights and also Global Warming.
Something people would be surprised to know about you: I have a husband...just joking...ummm...I am a half vegetarian. I don’t eat meat and things, but sometimes I just can’t resist. I am trying to be a vegetarian. That is what I really want to be, but it is kind of hard because of my family.
Who is your hero?: My hero is Audrey Kitching – she is a model and designer in the United States. And my other hero is my friends Chris, Teo and Sofie.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: Whether to go to Canada or Norway as an exchange student.
One word that describes you: Hyper.
Reminder: Write a final draft of either your "Büyükada" article OR your "Strike at the Birling Factory" article for Monday. Ms. Sevimli will be collecting them.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Student Focus
When I first met Merve's smiling face, I knew she would be the type of student who would not stop working. Merve seems like the kind of girl who is serious about her work, but also knows how to relax when the time comes. She is fun to be around because she never says anything she doesn't mean, and she always means what she says. Introducing Merve!
Full Name: Merve Ekici
What does your name mean?: A little hill. My sister’s name is Mina and mine Merve – they are both like “little hill” but next to each other.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul at the Florence Nightingale Hospital.
Since when has your family been here?: My mother has always lived here. My dad lived in Bandırma when he was very small and then he came to İstanbul and has lived here in İstanbul much longer.
Age: 15 yrs.
Locations you lived: Always lived in İstanbul.
What hobbies do you have?: I play tennis. I have done lots of things, but I always get bored or leave it. I wish my mother was a little more strict about it because when I was little I rode ponies and horses. I loved it. I love horses. But then I said, “Mom I don’t want to go.” So my mother said, “okay.” So maybe now I would be a good horse rider if she hadn't said "okay." I played basketball. I stopped playing it too. I was the captain of the team. I played it very well and then I stopped playing basketball when I started working on doing well on the OKS. And now I have played tennis for the past 1.5 yrs. I ran too. I was first in İstanbul when I was little.
Where do you want to go to school: Because of my sister I am thinking I will go to the US too, but maybe I would prefer Europe. I haven’t decided yet. My mom doesn’t want us to go to the US because it is very far and she says she will miss us. I don’t know – I haven’t decided yet.
Brothers or sisters?: I have one sister – Mina. She is 18 yrs old and she wants to go to University in the States. She is at Notre Dame Desion. I was at a French school, but it wasn’t very good. If I went to the same school as my sıster I would not have come to Koç.
At 8pm at night you are: It depends on the day, but if it’s a school day I would be watching television or maybe studying.
Embarrassing moment: When I was in Elementary School I walked out of the toilet with my skirt tucked into my underwear. Luckily one of my friend’s told me about it and I went and fixed it.
Favorite movie: I cry a lot. I cry even during Finding Nemo. The movie that touched me the most and I cried a lot while watching is The Notebook.
Favorite Holiday: After school finished my friends and family all go to Bodrum and stay for one month because we have a summer home there. Sometimes I go to camps and things like that, so summer is my favorite holiday.
World’s worst problem: People.
Something people would be surprised to know about you: I am not a very surprising person. I don’t know.
Who is your hero?: My mom. She helps me very much and we can talk about everything and she is always there when I need her. We fight a lot, but....I don’t know, I just love my mom.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: I always think about how I will get through tomorrow. How will it be...how will I handle it...I am a very planned and organized person, so I can’t do anything without planning and organizing.
One word that describes you: Planned.
Reminder: Strike at the Birling Factory articles are due on Monday for both classes. No assignments will be accepted late!
Also - I need more students! I need at least 9 more students to interview in order to cover the Fridays I will be gone for. Please leave your comment in the comment box if you would like to be interviewed next week! I can't wait to speak with all of you!
Full Name: Merve Ekici
What does your name mean?: A little hill. My sister’s name is Mina and mine Merve – they are both like “little hill” but next to each other.
Place of Birth: In İstanbul at the Florence Nightingale Hospital.
Since when has your family been here?: My mother has always lived here. My dad lived in Bandırma when he was very small and then he came to İstanbul and has lived here in İstanbul much longer.
Age: 15 yrs.
Locations you lived: Always lived in İstanbul.
What hobbies do you have?: I play tennis. I have done lots of things, but I always get bored or leave it. I wish my mother was a little more strict about it because when I was little I rode ponies and horses. I loved it. I love horses. But then I said, “Mom I don’t want to go.” So my mother said, “okay.” So maybe now I would be a good horse rider if she hadn't said "okay." I played basketball. I stopped playing it too. I was the captain of the team. I played it very well and then I stopped playing basketball when I started working on doing well on the OKS. And now I have played tennis for the past 1.5 yrs. I ran too. I was first in İstanbul when I was little.
Where do you want to go to school: Because of my sister I am thinking I will go to the US too, but maybe I would prefer Europe. I haven’t decided yet. My mom doesn’t want us to go to the US because it is very far and she says she will miss us. I don’t know – I haven’t decided yet.
Brothers or sisters?: I have one sister – Mina. She is 18 yrs old and she wants to go to University in the States. She is at Notre Dame Desion. I was at a French school, but it wasn’t very good. If I went to the same school as my sıster I would not have come to Koç.
At 8pm at night you are: It depends on the day, but if it’s a school day I would be watching television or maybe studying.
Embarrassing moment: When I was in Elementary School I walked out of the toilet with my skirt tucked into my underwear. Luckily one of my friend’s told me about it and I went and fixed it.
Favorite movie: I cry a lot. I cry even during Finding Nemo. The movie that touched me the most and I cried a lot while watching is The Notebook.
Favorite Holiday: After school finished my friends and family all go to Bodrum and stay for one month because we have a summer home there. Sometimes I go to camps and things like that, so summer is my favorite holiday.
World’s worst problem: People.
Something people would be surprised to know about you: I am not a very surprising person. I don’t know.
Who is your hero?: My mom. She helps me very much and we can talk about everything and she is always there when I need her. We fight a lot, but....I don’t know, I just love my mom.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: I always think about how I will get through tomorrow. How will it be...how will I handle it...I am a very planned and organized person, so I can’t do anything without planning and organizing.
One word that describes you: Planned.
Reminder: Strike at the Birling Factory articles are due on Monday for both classes. No assignments will be accepted late!
Also - I need more students! I need at least 9 more students to interview in order to cover the Fridays I will be gone for. Please leave your comment in the comment box if you would like to be interviewed next week! I can't wait to speak with all of you!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Student Focus
9G REMINDER: Bring in an English news article for Monday. Use the news sources I listed in this post.
Ece came late to class on the fırst day of school, and I thought, "Oh - so she will be one of those girls." She has come late a few times since then, but she is most definitely NOT "one of those girls." Ece has shown that she likes to think quietly and talk with friends (mostly Aslı) and she has no problem doing both while also getting her work done.
She is deifnitely a good person to become friends with because she is the kind of girl who is able to think for herself and will say things that she means.
Presenting...Ece!
Ece came late to class on the fırst day of school, and I thought, "Oh - so she will be one of those girls." She has come late a few times since then, but she is most definitely NOT "one of those girls." Ece has shown that she likes to think quietly and talk with friends (mostly Aslı) and she has no problem doing both while also getting her work done.
She is deifnitely a good person to become friends with because she is the kind of girl who is able to think for herself and will say things that she means.
Presenting...Ece!
Full Name: Ece Gureylik
What does your name mean?: Queen
Place of Birth: İstanbul – American Hospital
Why were you born there?: My parents have been here for about 20 yrs or something like that.
Age: 14 yrs
Locations you lived: İstanbul. On the Asian side in Suadiye.
What hobbies do you have?: One month ago, I started to ride horses...I was riding horses, but I stopped because of the school, but I just started again.
Where do you want to go to school (university): I am hoping to do the IB program and then go to the US, but I want to go to a “normal” school and then trasfer to an art school. Too many people want to go to university for just art, so I thought it would be better to go to a “normal” school.
Brothers or sisters?: I have a sister. She is 25 yrs old. She is very old. Like, we have 11 yrs between us...almost a generation.
At 8pm at night you are: Usually I am watching television in my home.
Worst habit: I am too talkative.
Embarrassing moment: I don’t have one.
Favorite movie: The Martian Child and The Truman Show.
Favorite Holiday: When I went to Brazil last year because my sister went there for a job with a program. She satyed there for 8 or 9 mths and tried to find sponsors for blind children in Brazil. Brazil has many similarities to Turkey (traffic jams, etc). It was very colorful. There was an ocean. It was the first time I went to the ocean and that’s it. I pretended that it was a normal sea and then a wave came and it was terrible.
World’s worst problem: There are many.
Something people would be surprised to know about you: I have big goals in life and I don’t always share them.
Who is your hero?: No one.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: I want to be in the IB program. It is an important thing for me, and if I can I will choose the IB program.
One word that describes you: Annoying.
Who wants to be next weeks interview subject?? Please respond in the comments section if you want to be next and we can meet during one of the lunch periods next week!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Student Focus
Can has been out of school for quite some time. I thought maybe some of you missed him, so I thought he would be a good subject to interview this week. He seems to be the man of mystery, although I do know that he has been at Koç longer than some of his teachers!
Introducing the always smiling, Can Peker!!
Full Name: Onur Can Peker
What does your name mean?: Can = Life and Peker is like, “Pek” = lots/many and “er” means soldier, so lots of soldiers and Onur = Honor
Why did your parents name you that?: It is just a name “Onur” it is not on my passport.
Place of Birth: Milwalkee, Wisconsin, USA
Why were you born there?: My parents were living there. My father was working and my mother was studying.
Age: 14 ... and a half. I was born in January and now we are in October.
Locations you have lived: I lived in Milwalkee for 2 yrs and then we moved back to İstanbul in Beykoz.
What hobbies do you have?: Playing tenis, playing soccer, water skiing and wakeboarding.
Brothers or sisters?: I have 2 twin sisters. They are 2 yrs younger than me. They are going to MEF. I like them.
What schools did you go to?: I was in a British school when I was in Kindergarten and then I started at the Koc School in 1st grade.
At 8pm at night you are: Watching TV in my bedroom or in the kitchen or with family in the living room. On Mondays and Wednesdays I have English lessons...just talking lesson.
Worst habit: I don’t have any.
Embarrassing moment: I don’t have any.
Favorite movie: Zohan – Adam Sandler’s movie, Get Smart, 88 minutes. I watched them recently and I like those. I watch a lot of movies. I can’t remember all the movies, so I just mention the new ones.
Favorite Holiday: I like going to Miami. I go there 3 times a year because it is summer everytime. I like summers and they don’t have a winter.
World’s worst problem: Global warming because when I live in İstanbul, I want it to snow. I like cold when it snows. So, if it is cold without snow, I don’t like it and that is the problem with Global warming.
Who is your hero?: I don’t know...like who...I don’t want to be like someone, I want to be like me.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: I am thinking, what should I become in the future. What job should I pick. When I was 3 yrs old, I wanted to be a policeman. Now, I am sure I don’t want to be a policeman, but I am not sure what I want to be.
One word that describes you: Lazy.
Introducing the always smiling, Can Peker!!
Full Name: Onur Can Peker
What does your name mean?: Can = Life and Peker is like, “Pek” = lots/many and “er” means soldier, so lots of soldiers and Onur = Honor
Why did your parents name you that?: It is just a name “Onur” it is not on my passport.
Place of Birth: Milwalkee, Wisconsin, USA
Why were you born there?: My parents were living there. My father was working and my mother was studying.
Age: 14 ... and a half. I was born in January and now we are in October.
Locations you have lived: I lived in Milwalkee for 2 yrs and then we moved back to İstanbul in Beykoz.
What hobbies do you have?: Playing tenis, playing soccer, water skiing and wakeboarding.
Brothers or sisters?: I have 2 twin sisters. They are 2 yrs younger than me. They are going to MEF. I like them.
What schools did you go to?: I was in a British school when I was in Kindergarten and then I started at the Koc School in 1st grade.
At 8pm at night you are: Watching TV in my bedroom or in the kitchen or with family in the living room. On Mondays and Wednesdays I have English lessons...just talking lesson.
Worst habit: I don’t have any.
Embarrassing moment: I don’t have any.
Favorite movie: Zohan – Adam Sandler’s movie, Get Smart, 88 minutes. I watched them recently and I like those. I watch a lot of movies. I can’t remember all the movies, so I just mention the new ones.
Favorite Holiday: I like going to Miami. I go there 3 times a year because it is summer everytime. I like summers and they don’t have a winter.
World’s worst problem: Global warming because when I live in İstanbul, I want it to snow. I like cold when it snows. So, if it is cold without snow, I don’t like it and that is the problem with Global warming.
Who is your hero?: I don’t know...like who...I don’t want to be like someone, I want to be like me.
Biggest decision you are thinking about right now: I am thinking, what should I become in the future. What job should I pick. When I was 3 yrs old, I wanted to be a policeman. Now, I am sure I don’t want to be a policeman, but I am not sure what I want to be.
One word that describes you: Lazy.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Student Focus
Presenting Elif Güleç! Elif will be our first featured student this Friday and what a feature she is. I found out tons of information about her when I sat down with her to talk yesterday, but I won't tell all -- you will have to ask her for the details!
Elif was absent soon after the school year started, and I wasn't sure why that was, but students told me she was horseback riding. When i think of horsebakc riding, I think of dirt paths through forests and peaceful trips along the waters edge. Apparently I've got it all wrong!
Elif is a competitor! She rides horses better than the cowboys in the wild west. Here is what it is like to be Elif Güleç:
Place of Birth: Istanbul, Turkey
Age: 15 yrs old
Where have you attended school: I went to Enka and then I went to a French school and then I came to Koç. I really loved Enka, and I heard Koc was like Enka, so I knew I would be happy here.
Do you have any siblings?: I have one sister. She is 9 yrs old and her name is Aslı.
At 8pm at night you are: I am eating with friends or family.
Worst habit: Uhhhh...I forget things. Like sometimes I will even forget about my sister.
Embarrassing moment: One time I won fifth in the European Championships and I slipped and fell. It was really muddy and wet.
Favorite movie: I have lots of favorite movies. One ıs The Notebook.
Favorite Holiday: I went to watch the European Championship with some friends. My mom came too, but I didn't see her until like 8 o'clock at night.
World’s worst problem: Education. Well, I think that is Turkey's. I am not sure about the world.
Who is your hero?: My father. He always knows what to do.
One word that describes you: "ENOUGH"
Elif was absent soon after the school year started, and I wasn't sure why that was, but students told me she was horseback riding. When i think of horsebakc riding, I think of dirt paths through forests and peaceful trips along the waters edge. Apparently I've got it all wrong!
Elif is a competitor! She rides horses better than the cowboys in the wild west. Here is what it is like to be Elif Güleç:
Place of Birth: Istanbul, Turkey
Age: 15 yrs old
Where have you attended school: I went to Enka and then I went to a French school and then I came to Koç. I really loved Enka, and I heard Koc was like Enka, so I knew I would be happy here.
Do you have any siblings?: I have one sister. She is 9 yrs old and her name is Aslı.
At 8pm at night you are: I am eating with friends or family.
Worst habit: Uhhhh...I forget things. Like sometimes I will even forget about my sister.
Embarrassing moment: One time I won fifth in the European Championships and I slipped and fell. It was really muddy and wet.
Favorite movie: I have lots of favorite movies. One ıs The Notebook.
Favorite Holiday: I went to watch the European Championship with some friends. My mom came too, but I didn't see her until like 8 o'clock at night.
World’s worst problem: Education. Well, I think that is Turkey's. I am not sure about the world.
Who is your hero?: My father. He always knows what to do.
One word that describes you: "ENOUGH"
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Student Focus
Every Friday, starting with next Friday, I will post an interview I had with a student from either 9G or 9H (the two 9th grade classes that will be reading this blog). There are plenty of weeks for all of you to be interviewed, so don't feel bad if I don't get to interview you until the end of the year.
I just wanted to warn everyone ahead of time that I will be pulling aside a student here and there during lunch to interview them for the blog. I can't wait to learn more about you and to let you guys learn more about each other!
I just wanted to warn everyone ahead of time that I will be pulling aside a student here and there during lunch to interview them for the blog. I can't wait to learn more about you and to let you guys learn more about each other!
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