"Experience University Before Choosing" Project at Bursa Technical University (BTÜ)

A New Model for Informed Department Selection Bursa Technical University (BTÜ) has implemented the "Experience University Before Choosing" project for 11th and 12th-grade high school students in a pioneering move. This project, supported by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), is designed to strengthen the informed selection process and align it with labor market needs. According to reports published on July 5, 2026, nearly 3,000 students applied to participate in this program to experience the real university atmosphere before finalizing their choices in the YKS exam [1][2]. ## Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Data Science One of the prominent features of this course is the special focus on emerging fields and future careers. Data obtained from this project shows a strong interest in programs based on artificial intelligence, data science, and engineering. For example, the "Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning" program was placed on trial preference lists by 833 students, and the "Data Science and Analytics" program by 286 students [1]. These statistics indicate a shift in the new generation's orientation toward strategic technologies, which Bursa Technical University covers extensively. ## Direct Experience in the Heart of the Academic Environment During this program, students do not just listen to lectures; they participate in classes like real university students and benefit from laboratory facilities, libraries, and social spaces [2]. Professor Dr. Naci Çağlar, Rector of BTÜ, stated that this model goes beyond a classic promotional activity and serves as an educational guidance template. He emphasized that their goal is to help young people make decisions with a precise understanding of their capabilities and the realities of academic disciplines [1][3]. ## Official Approval and National Vision This project has gained attention not only at the university level but also at the national level. The "Experience University Before Choosing" project has been registered by the General Directorate of Copyright of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey and recognized as a scientific and literary work [1]. This success demonstrates the originality and innovation of BTÜ in providing modern educational solutions. Due to the widespread interest, university officials have announced plans to hold this program regularly every year and increase the student admission capacity for coming years [2]. Additionally, in-person university introduction programs are scheduled for July 8 to 16, 2026, to allow more candidates to become familiar with the BTÜ environment.