IUE graduate academic at a world-renowned university

Lena Çavuşoğlu, a graduate of Izmir University of Economics (IUE), pursued her dreams about having an academic career abroad instead of working in the company owned by her family, and went to the United States of America (USA). Çavuşoğlu, who completed her double master's degree in Italy and the USA and completed her doctorate at IUE, successfully represents our country as a faculty member in the University of North Carolina, one of the best universities in the World.

Living in Portland, USA, Lena Çavuşoğlu (35) graduated from IUE Faculty of Communication, Department of Public Relations and Advertising in 2009, where she studied with a full scholarship. Çavuşoğlu, who went to Italy for her master's degree as soon as she graduated from the university, completed her master's degree in strategic marketing design at Polytechnic University of Milan (Politecnico di Milano). Having stayed in Italy for two years, Çavuşoğlu returned to Izmir at the request of her family. Starting to work as a manager in the family business, Çavuşoğlu decided that this was not her dream career goal and took a bold step abroad again.

QUICKLY CLIMBED THE LADDER OF SUCCESS

Aiming to explore the world, get into a new environment and achieve success abroad, Çavuşoğlu completed her second master's degree in business administration (MBA) at Georgia State University in the USA. Çavuşoğlu started her academic career as an assistant professor at Portland State University. Giving lectures on the fields of advertising, consumer behavior and marketing communication in the USA, Çavuşoğlu also came to Izmir from time to time and completed her doctorate at IUE.

OFFER FROM DUBAI

A conference attended by Çavuşoğlu, who climbed the ladder of success quickly, paved the way for her to Dubai. Sharing her presentation on the relationship of trust between the seller and the buyer in online shopping on her social media account, Çavuşoğlu received a job offer from University of Dubai. After 3 interviews, Çavuşoğlu accepted the offer and started to give lectures on fashion marketing and communication. After spending approximately 6 months in Dubai in 2020, Çavuşoğlu transferred to the University of North Carolina in the USA. Çavuşoğlu, who gives lectures on marketing theory and consumer behavior, successfully represents Turkey and prepares young people who come to the USA for education from different parts of the world for the future.

I DID NOT TAKE THE EASY WAY OUT

Stating that she plans to continue her academic career in the USA, Çavuşoğlu said, “I have always loved to research and learn new things since high school. It was my pleasure not only to learn but also to share the knowledge I gained. This passion and hobby also determined my career choice over time. We have a family business where irrigation materials are produced. After doing my master's degree in Italy, I tried to return and work with my family. However, I always wanted to explore the world, meet new people, have new experiences and go on adventures. I didn't choose the easy way and went after my goals. Looking back, I see that the decision I made was the right one. I am happy for this.”

FOCUS ON THE RIGHT TARGET

Çavuşoğlu continued as follows: “The education I received at Izmir University of Economics, the correct guidance of my academics have been effective in my current position. I thank them very much. My spouse Ahmet works as an engineer in a technology company. We both miss our country and Izmir and we come often. I love my job. I continue to carry out scientific studies and produce projects, believing that I will achieve better works. Success is not far away once you believe, work hard, and focus on the right target. My biggest advice to young people is to set a goal for themselves no matter what. It is not easy, because setting a goal can often be more difficult than the goal itself. But my advice is for young people to start researching and working for a career goal that they are excited about or interested in, without delaying, while studying at university. When you provide this, the pieces already fall into place and you find the motivation you need in yourself.”