Bringing a lifelong passion for robotics to Eindhoven
When 19-year-old Atakan left his hometown of Ankara, Turkey, to study in the Netherlands, he brought with him a lifelong passion for robotics, and a clear vision of what he wanted to build.
Now a first-year Electrical Engineering student at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Atakan is continuing the journey he began when he was just ten years old, tinkering with Legos and dreaming of innovation.
From lego to leading a robotics team
Atakan’s story with robotics started early. “I always liked building things,” he recalls. “I used to spend hours with Legos, and my parents decided to send me to a course. That’s how it all started.”
That simple spark grew into a serious pursuit. He joined TNT Robotics, a Turkish team participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), one of the world’s leading youth robotics programs. Over four years, Atakan evolved from a curious student to a team captain, leading his peers through international competitions that combine engineering, programming, and teamwork.
Choosing Eindhoven: The heart of technology
When it came time for university, Atakan knew he wanted to study abroad, and Eindhoven quickly stood out. “I wanted to be in a place where technology and innovation are part of everyday life,” he says. “I knew about the big tech companies here, like ASML, and the strong engineering programs.”
The Brainport region, home to an ecosystem of universities, high-tech industries, and startups, was a natural fit. “In Turkey, I studied in the International Baccalaureate program, so I was used to learning in English,” he explains. “The Netherlands offered high-quality education in English and a diverse, international environment. That was important for me.”
Adapting to life in the Netherlands
Moving to a new country always comes with challenges, but Atakan adapted quickly. “The biking culture was different for me,” he laughs. “But it’s great exercise! Maybe that’s why Dutch people are always so fit.”
He describes Eindhoven and the university campus as peaceful and practical.
“The campus is beautiful, and the lectures are very well-structured. I like that we’re encouraged to study independently and take responsibility for our learning.”
One challenge? “The train announcements are in Dutch,” he admits. “When I first arrived, everyone suddenly left the train after an announcement, and I didn’t understand why. Luckily, someone explained it, and I still managed to arrive in Eindhoven!”
Continuing the robotics dream
Atakan didn’t leave robotics behind when he moved. He joined Team Rembrandts, the Dutch FRC team based in Eindhoven. “It’s exciting to continue doing what I love, but now in a new country, with new people and perspectives,” he says.
Through this, he found a community that shares his curiosity and ambition. “It’s a great way to make friends and stay connected to what I enjoy most: building things that move and work.
Looking ahead
Though Atakan is still at the beginning of his university journey, he’s already thinking about how to combine his passion for robotics with the skills he’s gaining in electrical engineering. “I don’t know exactly what I’ll do yet,” he admits. “But I want to keep learning, keep building, and see where that takes me.”
For now, he’s content to enjoy student life, continue his robotics projects, and explore everything Eindhoven has to offer.
“It’s a great place to study, with so many opportunities, I feel lucky to be here.”
