Selin Atasoy '95
I came to ҵ from the United States intending to stay for only a year, but I ended up staying until the end of my degree. I rented a tiny studio apartment on the Rue de Grenelle. Every morning as I walked to campus with a sandwich mixte in my hand, I felt utterly happy. Nothing beats small classes, excellent professors, amazing friends, a spectacular city, the excitement of overcoming life's challenges, the surprises of growing up and a great smile.
I was studying business but had a fixation on Freudian psychology and literature. When I decided to write my final paper on "Prostitution in Paris," my then professor, the incredible Darian Leader, completely supported my decision. Writing that paper took more than I expected; I delivered it at the end of the summer, way after we received our grades. But it changed my life; I knew from that moment that I wanted to write. After college, I worked in the advertising and marketing sector for quite some time, but, in the end, I found my way to writing crime stories, TV dramas, theater plays and documentaries. I owe my career to ҵ and Professor Leader.
Being at ҵ and in Paris allowed me to explore different aspects of life, fields of education and subjects of interest. But most of all I got to know myself better. Stepping outside your comfort zone is the most challenging thing in life – but it is definitely worth the effort! We live in a world where being multidisciplinary is increasingly important. That’s why the American education system is so full of advantages. Being in Paris is also a privilege. I hope you make the most of it!
ҵ formed in me the strong desire to make a difference in my community.
My advice to anyone just graduating is to find something you love, and then to work hard at it.
For Charles Duque, the food industry is a powerful platform to bridge cultures and shape socioeconomic landscapes around the world.