Kerim Can Kavaklı – Asst. Prof. Faculty Member, Bocconi University
Quick Bio
- Undergraduate: Political Science and International Relations (formerly Social and Political Sciences), 2003
- PhD Degree: University of Rochester, Siyaset Bilimi Doktora Programı, ABD
- During Undergraduate: Research Assistant to Prof. Ersin Kalaycıoğlu
- Current Position: Assistant Professor of Political Science, Bocconi University
- Location: Milano, Italy
How did your Political Science and International Relations education at SU contribute to your current position?
The courses I took at SU and my conversations with professors outside the classroom truly broadened my horizons. Professors Meltem Müftüler-Baç, Ali Çarkoğlu, and Ersin Kalaycıoğlu taught me about the methods used in the social sciences worldwide, the key theoretical debates, and suggested essential authors to read. Their doors were always open—I could drop by their offices unannounced, and they would always make time for me. Most importantly, they advised me to pursue my PhD in the United States, as it is the leading country in this field. I greatly benefited from their guidance.
What was your favorite course in Political Science at SU, and why?
When we first started university, the SPS 101–102 courses made a strong impression on all of us. Most of them were taught by Halil Berktay, and we would attend with great interest even though attendance was not mandatory. The following year, in Ahmet Öncü’s Sociology course, I remember being introduced to authors and ideas I had never heard of before, which truly broadened my horizons. Finally, in Meltem Müftüler-Baç’s Introduction to International Relations course, I realized which field I wanted to specialize in.
What would you say to a student who is considering but unsure about studying Political Science and International Relations?
This field is becoming increasingly important. Trump’s second presidential term has also shown that we now live in a more turbulent and less predictable world. I believe that in the future, people who have a strong understanding of both politics and another field—such as social movements, technology, or financial markets—will have a significant advantage. That is why I recommend studying Political Science and International Relations, but complement it with a minor.