The Turkish & Ottoman Studies program continues to expand learning beyond the classroom through meaningful community engagement. This year, MELC's Turkish & Ottoman Studies was proudly represented at Seattle’s International Children’s Friendship Festival, where University of Washington students participated as volunteers and cultural ambassadors.
A special recognition goes to Prof. Melike Yucel-Koc, whose leadership made this involvement possible. Serving on the festival’s organizing committee and as ICFF Volunteer Coordinator, she played a central role in bringing UW Turkish language students into the heart of this vibrant community event. Through her efforts, students volunteered across two full days of programming, supporting festival activities while actively engaging with the local Turkish American community.
This experience offered students a unique opportunity to practice their Turkish language skills in authentic, real-world contexts. Whether assisting visitors, participating in cultural presentations, or simply conversing with community members, students strengthened both their linguistic abilities and cultural understanding. The festival environment allowed them to explore Turkish traditions, arts, and heritage in a dynamic and interactive setting.
Beyond student engagement, the event also highlighted MELC Turkish & Ottoman Studies’ growing presence in the Seattle community. During the festival, Prof. Yucel-Koc met with the Mayor of Seattle, Katie Wilson, representing the University of Washington and underscoring the importance of cultural exchange initiatives in fostering mutual understanding and connection.
MELC Turkish & Ottoman Studies is deeply grateful for our faculty member, Melike Yucel-Koc’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success. Her work exemplifies how faculty-driven initiatives can create transformative opportunities for students while strengthening ties between the university and the broader community.