Ömer Turan

Why did you choose to study in the Netherlands?

I finished my Bachelor in Turkey at the end of 2010 and I wanted to do my Master in a European country. The TU/e master program in Automotive Technology was promoted at my school in Turkey and I liked its structure and the fact that it is a multidisciplinary study. The program consists of some compulsory courses which are provided by six different departments and I could fill in the rest of the program very free and personal. On top of that the TU/e has a good international ranking.

"TU/e has a good international ranking and I liked the structure and multi-disciplinary charcter of its master program in automotive"

Was it difficult for you to find a job upon graduation?

I basically spent the second year of my Master’s program at different companies, I did a 3 months internship at DTI which is Punch Powertrain at the moment and a 9 months graduation project at DAF Trucks. The opportunity to perform projects at companies during my study helped me to expand my network and to learn more about Dutch business culture. The positive evaluation of my graduation project at DAF Trucks made it easier to start my career at this company after my graduation. Besides, the search year visa option which is given after graduation allows you to look for a job in the Netherlands for a duration of one year. All my classmates who were looking for a job in the Netherlands were able to find a job during this search year.

"All of my classmates who were looking for a job in the Netherlands within the time the search year visa option offers"

What is your current position?

My current function is Powertrain Controls Engineer at Bosch Transmission Technology. I work in the System Engineering Transmission department with the responsibility of conducting CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) controls activities for preparation, implementation and testing of demo-cars and taking part in the innovation activities for CVT and electrification.

How do you like working in Brainport Eindhoven?

I like both living and working in this region. I came to Eindhoven to study 8 years ago and my connection with the region and the people in this region got stronger over the years. I like the friendliness and directness of Brabant people and this is also visible in the Dutch working culture. There is almost no hierarchy so you can discuss anything with your superiors and it is very much appreciated when you take initiative and have a word in the decisions. It is nice to be involved in every level at your work, therefore I really enjoy working in Dutch culture.

What are your plans? Will you stay in this area?

I would like to, because I know and like the system here. It depends on the job opportunities. But I’m positive about that, since I already worked at DAF in Eindhoven and currently have a good job at Bosch in Tilburg. There are a lot of interesting companies in this region and it’s a very organised and mobile country, so if I were to find a job elsewhere in the Netherlands, I could still take it and keep on living in Brabant. Lots of young professionals do so.

Would like to keep on living in Brabant, regardless where you end up working?

Yes. It has become my second home, Brabant suits me. I like the straightforward attitude here, even though I had to get used to that. But it feels comfortable and it provides very worthy feedback. It’s an open culture and I find that locals really appreciate internationals looking for a higher education. They like your contribution to their country. It’s a good region for people with new ideas. Also, the infrastructure is very good and in the cities, you can do everything by bike. And, very important of course, most of my friends live and work in Brabant as well.

What advice would you give other international students who want to come here?

There are always things to worry about when you start somewhere new. But the Netherlands is a very welcoming country. You won’t have to feel alone here and you will definitely find things that fit your interests and goals. Don’t hesitate to connect with people and your stay here will meet up to your expectations.

What is the most remarkable, typical Dutch phenomenon you experienced?

Dutch people can do anything while riding a bike. They eat bananas or apples and at the same time transport two children by bike; one in the front and one in the back. Even in the winter.