Talat
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
I have been working for the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, General Directorate of Water Management. I have also started my PhD studies in Water Economics and Finance.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
Water is life. It is more than just a professional career decision. It is a kind of lifestyle. My personal interest is safe drinking water. There is no life or quality of life without clean water. Providing clean water is a 24/7, 365 commitment that rewards you while also benefiting the environment and your community. Water professionals are public servants and first responders who work to protect public health, the environment, and the economy. The water sector recovers, recycles, and reuses our limited fresh water supplies while creating new resources like clean energy, fuel, and fertilizer. The future and sustainable management of water is built over time. To achieve it, the water sector needs a steady stream of talented and dedicated individuals who have made a choice to work in water. When you work in water you don’t just enjoy a good, stable job with amazing benefits. You get great training, a challenging job environment, and the satisfaction that comes with knowing you are directly benefiting your community to ensure a good quality of life in the present and for generations to come.
What did you most enjoy about studying at the University and what was the biggest highlight of your course?
The thing I enjoyed most about studying at the University is beautiful Exeter/ Devon, probably the best place in the world. The best thing about the programme is Professor David Butler. It was a great honour to study with him.
Why did you choose Exeter?
I chose Exeter because of the globally renowned staff.
What skills and experiences have been most useful in your career?
The technical skills are undeniable. However, I think the social skills I have gained during my studies are more and more beneficial and useful.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Define problems and focus on solutions to them.