Inspiring Stories of Sabancı Psychology Alumni
Zeynep Deniz Özden, Project Consultant, Ipsos Türkiye
“My career has been shaped by a passion for psychology. Every project brings a new discovery, and every insight helps tell a new story.”
Quick Bio
- Undergraduate: Psychology, 2020
- Master’s: Psychology, 2023, Sabancı University
- During Studies: Research assistant in the labs of Prof. Emre Selcuk and Prof. Gul Gunaydin
- Current Position: Project Consultant, Ipsos Türkiye
- Location: Istanbul
Short Q&A
What does your current job involve? What’s a typical day like?
I currently work at Ipsos Turkey as a Project Consultant on the Consumer Panels team. I support clients in both household and textile panels by providing insights into market dynamics and competition. I generate regular reports using data from the Ipsos Household Consumption and Individual Textile Panels. These include detailed consumer profiles and analyses that help clients better understand their target audiences and make informed decisions. Ultimately, I help them strengthen their marketing and sales strategies.
How did your psychology education at SU support your transition into work life?
My psychology education taught me how to interpret human behavior through a critical and structured lens. My theoretical background has helped me approach complex challenges with a people-centered mindset. Courses like statistics and methodology also trained me to think analytically and work with data. These skills have been incredibly useful for strategic decision-making in my current role.
How has your research experience at SU influenced your work today?
Being involved in research projects gave me practical skills I now use every day. From project design to data analysis, taking part in each stage taught me a lot about process management, teamwork, and time planning. That hands-on experience continues to shape how I work at Ipsos, where I not only analyze data but also turn it into insights that clients can act on.
What was your favorite course in the psychology program, and why?
The course Stress & Well-Being really stood out for me. Prof. Emre Selcuk’s passion for teaching and his ability to connect everyday experiences with scientific insight was incredibly inspiring. I learned about helpful tools for managing stress and understanding what contributes to happiness in daily life.
What advice would you give to current undergraduates?
Sabanci offers a wide range of opportunities—it’s up to you to take advantage of them!
Try courses from different departments before choosing a major, join student clubs to meet new people, and enjoy everything campus life has to offer.
What would you say to a student who’s considering psychology but still unsure?
When I started at Sabanci, I intended to study industrial engineering. I even took some courses in that area. But over time, I realized my true interest was in psychology, and that shift shaped the rest of my academic journey.
Here's my two cents to students considering psychology: Remember that psychology is a broad field with many paths. Exploring its different areas will help you figure out what fits you best and guide your career choices more confidently. Also, make the most of the program’s strong sense of community: connect with faculty, classmates, and alumni. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek advice. The more you explore, the more you’ll enjoy discovering where you belong in the world of psychology.
How did your background in psychology help you stand out in job interviews?
The research projects I took part in, my understanding of human behavior, and my ability to connect theory with real-world applications helped me stand out. Being involved in multiple projects from start to finish strengthened both my leadership and attention to detail. These qualities continue to serve me well in professional settings.