Işıl Ekin Özkan's Story

Ekin first moved to Istanbul for her education, where she was accepted as a boarding student into Kadıköy Anatolian High School, one of Turkey’s most established institutions. After graduating second in her class, she began her undergraduate studies in Psychology at Middle East Technical University. While completing her minor in Political Science, she also worked in the university’s Public Relations Office, specifically in the outreach unit. For three years, she provided guidance to high school students about university life, program selection, and career planning, an experience that strengthened her communication and advising skills.

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Throughout her undergraduate years, Ekin remained actively involved in volunteer work, particularly within European youth exchange and mobility programs. She took part in numerous national and international projects, which not only deepened her passion for working directly with young people but also enhanced her ability to contribute meaningfully in diverse cultural and social contexts. During her studies, she completed an internship in Italy, where she observed European education and youth policies firsthand and expanded her intercultural communication experience.

After graduating from METU with high honors, she spent nearly a year researching and personally visiting universities across Europe to determine the most suitable academic path for her future. Today, she is pursuing her master’s degree in Social Work at Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences in Berlin. Having relocated between cities and countries for her education, she has gained substantial, firsthand knowledge of application, relocation, and visa processes. Understanding how crucial educational and career decisions are, especially at a young age. Ekin believes in tailoring each journey to the individual’s needs, and she supports students with a thoughtful, detailed, and realistic approach.

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Joining the C&C Canada Education, Visa, and Immigration team, Ekin is highly enthusiastic about helping young people build the pathways that lead to their dreams. With her background in youth work, social impact initiatives, career planning, and international mobility programs, she aims to empower and support students throughout their journeys. Passionate about writing since childhood, Ekin is inspired by outdoor activities, travel, and creative expression. Today, she carries this curiosity and energy into both her academic path and her work with young people.