Sibel Cagliyan

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Ministry of Finance and Treasury

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

İ have been working as a Tax Inspector for the State in Turkey.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I like auditing tax related issues. The best side of my Job is adding value to the economy and state.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

What I enjoyed most about the programme was the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and exchange ideas in a truly international environment. It helped me broaden my perspective and develop both personally and professionally.

The biggest highlight for me was working collaboratively on projects and engaging in meaningful discussions, which not only enhanced my knowledge but also created lasting memories and friendships.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

What I enjoyed most about studying here was the dynamic learning environment and the opportunity to engage with different perspectives. The combination of academic knowledge and practical discussions made the experience both enriching and enjoyable.

I also really valued the chance to meet people from diverse cultures, which made my time here more memorable and helped me grow both academically and personally.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I chose to study at the University of Exeter because of its strong academic reputation and its emphasis on both research and practical learning. The programme structure really appealed to me, as it offered a balance between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

I was also drawn to the university’s international environment and supportive community, which I felt would provide a great opportunity to grow both academically and personally.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

The most valuable gains I obtained during my university education were the ability to think more analytically and express my ideas clearly. I didn’t just learn theoretical knowledge in my courses; I also learned how to apply it. This helps me approach situations I encounter in my professional life in a more structured and solution-oriented way.

Through group work and presentations, I developed the ability to work in a team, evaluate different perspectives, and meet deadlines under pressure.

In short, my education provided me not only with professional knowledge but also with practical skills that I can use in any field, and it has formed a solid foundation for my career.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

My advice would be to make the most of your time at university by going beyond the classroom. Try to gain practical experience through internships, projects, or part-time work, as this will give you a clearer idea of what you want and help you stand out.

At the same time, focus on building strong communication and analytical skills, as these are essential in almost any career path. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, connect with people, and learn from different

What are your plans for the future?

In the future, I plan to continue developing myself both professionally and personally. In the short term, I aim to deepen my expertise in my field and take on roles where I can learn, contribute, and grow.

In the longer term, I hope to take on greater responsibilities, possibly in leadership positions, where I can have a broader impact and contribute to meaningful projects. I’m also open to international opportunities that would allow me to gain different perspectives and experiences.

Overall, my goal is to build a career that is both challenging and fulfilling, while continuously learning and adapting.