Ladin Bacakoglu ‘20

International Relations, Political Science and German, Turkey

Ladin Bacakoglu was born and raised in Izmir, Turkey and wanted the full        American university experience. She is pursuing three degrees in International Relations, Political Science, and German. She came to SU with the dream of pursuing triple majors  while being involed in student organizations doing social activities and creating lifelong relationships.  

In the last three years, she has been serving as an Undergraduate Student Representative at the Student Association, an undergraduate student government, and as an International Student representative at the International Student Advisory Board; served as an undergraduate student representative at Diversity and Inclusion Board; and was an International Student Mentor for Slutzker Center.  She says, “While I have been serving at these boards and continuing to pursue my degrees, I am also following my passion in theater and dance.  I am a member of First-Year Players and a Teaching Assistant for beginner Latin Dance course.”

She includes that the education that she receives at SU allowed her to go abroad to do an outstanding internship in Brussels, Belgium,  study abroad one semester in Berlin, Germany,  and broaden her vision by seeing different countries and cultures.

“My favorite memories so far include meeting amazing passionate people and creating lifelong relationships with people from all around the world with different backgrounds and cultures,” she says. “Also, I will never forget the first time I entered the Dome and the Orange Spirit at the first football game in the year! I was fascinated by the size of the Dome at the first-year student ceremony; and the Orange support, love and passion of the residents of Syracuse, students, faculty members, and alumni at the first football game! The first time I entered the Dome, I understood that I became a member of a huge family, and the love and support is unconditional!”

To incoming students, Ladin says, “As a person who hadn’t experienced snow or cold in her life before started SU, I can honestly say that you don’t have to worry about snow! You will experience all four seasons!! Bring your flip flops and also your boots!!” She concludes, “When you become an Orange, you are always an Orange! Welcome to the Orange Family!”