In 2003, Faruk Saribas was one of six students enrolled in the dual degree program between the State University of New York and the Turkish Higher Education (YÖK).

From the start, Faruk had little trouble adjusting to classes taught in English. He had begun taking classes in English in middle school, and even earned the top grade in his English preparatory class.

It was in middle school that Faruk also knew he wanted to study in the United States. The SUNY-YÖK program, which allowed him to study in the United States at SUNY New Paltz as well as his home country at Istanbul Technical University, was a perfect match.

Over the course of his time in the program, Faruk has experienced a lot. He has attended classes of different sizes and noticed a difference. He said that at ITU, where classes average 100 students, the focus is on preparing for the final exam. In a class of 20, like at New Paltz, Faruk said performance was based more on various projects assigned throughout the semester.

At the end of the summer session, Faruk receives two degrees – one from ITU and one from New Paltz. This is accomplished by attending classes year-round. The fall and spring semesters are spent at Yök institutions, while summers are spent living on campus taking summer courses at New Paltz.

He said that this method was better for him, because it allowed him to learn about economic issues such as currency, unemployment and inflation that affect all countries.

He sees a future for himself in the United States. Faruk is preparing to apply to graduate schools in the United States. And, one day, he would like to work in New York City on Wall Street.

Role model: Mustafa Kemel Atatürk (1881-1938), the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey. Faruk said he admires the man who brought democracy to Turkey for his intelligence, the sacrifices he made for his country, and his belief in reform.

Long-term goal: Faruk would like to return to Turkey and apply what he has learned about United States business and economics to working in his father’s textile business.

Favorite song: “Time” by Pink Floyd