Life is truly about choices
Prof. Nevzat Tarhan explained that the saying "Life is a choice" is based on a scientific foundation and that it is also confirmed by neuroscience.
"The frontal region of our brain is like a captain's bridge. Information coming from outside, information produced by our brain, and chemical information generated by our body are evaluated here. The brain constantly makes choices and decisions, asking 'Is it appropriate, safe, beneficial?' Every action we take in daily life is essentially a choice. Career choice is one of the most important of these."
Don't chase popular professions
Tarhan stated that one of the most common mistakes young people make is chasing popular professions.
"Choosing a field just because it's the most profitable today is not right. Young people must ask themselves, 'Will I be happy with this choice ten, twenty years from now?' They should make their choices as if writing a letter to the future, thinking about their future selves ten years from now."
Know yourself, find your flow state
Tarhan emphasized that self-knowledge is crucial in making the right career choice, and explained that it is much easier for a person to achieve success in a job they love.
"There are areas where you get so engrossed that you lose track of time. In psychology, this is called the 'flow state.' If a person works in such a field, the work does not feel like a burden, but like a hobby. This feeling is also a very important guide in career choice."
Profession is not identity, it is a tool
Tarhan stated that young people and families attach too much meaning to a profession, and that this creates unnecessary anxiety.
"A profession is not skin; it is clothing. You cannot change your skin, but you can change your clothes. A profession is a tool you use to achieve your life goals; it is not the goal itself. If necessary, people can acquire new skills and move into different fields."
Three basic criteria are not sufficient
Tarhan reminded that research shows young people prioritize income, happiness, and comfortable working conditions when choosing a profession, and stated that these three criteria alone are not enough to make a sound decision.
"A profession is not chosen solely for earning money. It should also be a field where one can realize their potential and self-actualize."
Families should guide, not decide
Tarhan, noting that emotions are more dominant during adolescence, emphasized the importance of family support while stating that parents should not make decisions on behalf of their children.
"Parents should not make choices for their children. Their duty is to show options, remind them of their strengths and weaknesses, and provide guidance. The final decision, however, should be made by the young person. Because it is not the parents who will live that profession, but the child themselves."
Definitely seek support from a preference counselor
Tarhan stated that making the right choice requires professional support, and drew attention to the importance of preference counselors and career tests.
"A person can sometimes make choices based on their fears, or sometimes on the expectations of their environment. To prevent this, support from preference counselors should definitely be sought. Scientific tests like the Holland Career Test also help individuals discover their areas of interest and talent."
University is not just an institution that grants diplomas
Tarhan stated that university selection is at least as important as department selection, and said that candidates must research the vision of the university they will choose.
"A university has four main duties: to provide a profession, to conduct research, to inform society, and to ensure the transfer of produced knowledge to society. The university is also an ecosystem that develops students' social and emotional skills."
Tarhan stated that they operate with this understanding at Üsküdar University, and reminded that all students have been given Positive Psychology and Communication Skills courses since 2013.
Academic staff determines your future
Tarhan stated that the academic staff should be carefully examined during university preference, and emphasized the Anatolian wisdom of "being trustworthy and competent."
"Even when a person gets their watch repaired, they go to an expert. They should show the same diligence when making one of the most important decisions of their life. The university's academic staff, educational approach, and scientific productivity must be thoroughly researched."
Artificial intelligence is not a threat, but an opportunity
Tarhan stated that artificial intelligence will be decisive in future professions, and said that professions that stay away from technology will lose their competitiveness.
"Just as electricity created a great transformation in the 1800s, artificial intelligence is achieving the same transformation today. A profession that views digitalization coldly will end up in the dustbin of history."
Tarhan stated that artificial intelligence will not replace humans but will transform professions, and continued:
"A person who knows themselves will not become a toy of artificial intelligence. Psychologists, physicians, engineers, communicators, and health professionals who use artificial intelligence well will be much more advantageous in the future. Artificial intelligence will not destroy professions; it will develop them."
University life is not just education
Tarhan stated that university years are also a period of social development, and drew attention to the importance of social opportunities offered by city universities.
"University is not just a place where lessons are taken. It is a period where friendships are formed, social skills are developed, and life is learned. When making their choices, young people should definitely see the campus, social environment, and the university's ecosystem on site."
"First, know yourself"
Prof. Nevzat Tarhan, who also shared his final advice to candidates making their choices, concluded his words as follows:
"Decide not according to popular preferences, but by knowing yourself. Determine your interests, strengths, and life goals. Think as if you are writing a letter to the future. If you believe you can still love and perform the profession you chose ten years from now, you are on the right path. Do not lose hope. The most difficult times are often the harbingers of the most beautiful beginnings."
AKŞAM Newspaper
