Welcome Message
Dear Colleagues,
We are excited to invite you to join us at the Conference on Re-shaping Career Planning: Bridging Gaps, which will take place in Ankara, Türkiye, on June 24-26, 2024 with support of the Presidential Human Resources Office (CBİKO).
This conference brings together experts from higher education career services and various sectors to address gaps in student/graduate transition to work life. Best practices in career services, including the emerging role of AI and other technologies in adapting to the world of work with life-long career planning skills, will also be covered at the conference.
We welcome your contribution through best practice talks, workshops, and poster presentations.
Please click for more details on the Call for Contributions.
We look forward to hosting you at METU in Ankara, Türkiye, to make long-term global bridges across institutions and regions and reshape career planning for more resilient and adaptable graduates in the future.
Together, let's build a bridge to the workplace of the future.
Best regards,
Why Re-shaping Career Planning 
"It’s time for the collective discussion! Academia, government, technology, and industry must come together to address shared challenges and the widening gap between students' skills and the industry landscape in the future AI-driven world".
Conference Theme
Re-shaping Career Planning: Bridging Gaps
Main Topics:
Transition to work-life
- What does a successful transition to work life look like for students and graduates?
- Antecedents and consequences of a successful transition to work (i.e., school-to-work transition)
- Best practices in career services to support transition to work-life
Career services models and leadership
- Career center structures, team building, and roles
- Career center leadership, advocacy, and resource development
- Best examples of career center models, leadership, and resources
AI, the changing world of work, and emerging career planning strategies
- AI and the changing world of work
- AI-enhanced career services and emerging career planning strategies
- Best examples of AI-enhanced and internet-based career services
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Farouk Dey
VP for Integrative Learning and Life Design
Johns Hopkins University
INVITED SPEAKERS
Nurten Karacan Özdemir
Psychological Counseling and Guidance, Hacettepe University
Martin Edmondson
University Career Office Strategies, Gradcore
Sule Yalcin
Career Strategist, Schulee Consulting
Yasir Kurt
Fail Furious Expert, Johns Hopkins University
Selim Onal
CEO, Heasy
Esra Durceylan Kaygusuz
Academician, Sabancı University
Announcement
If you attended the conference and haven't received your certificate of presentation or attendance yet, please send a request email to erkan@meetinghand.com address.
Program - 3 Days
Draft Program
The program committee reserves the right to modify and update the schedule for a better experience or due to mandatory reasons
24 Jun
Onsite Registration
Opening Session
Welcome Speeches
- Prof. Y. Eren Kalay, METU, Conference Co-chair
- Prof. M. Versan Kök, METU President
- Assoc.Prof. Salim Atay, President of The Presidential Human Resources Office
- Prof. Erol Özvar, President of The Council of Higher Education
Plenary Talk
- Assoc.Prof. Elif Balın, San Francisco State University, Co-chair
Building a Bridge between Türkiye and Global Higher Education Career Services
- Keynote Speaker: Dr. Farouk Dey, Johns Hopkins University
ImagineU: Designing the Future of Higher Education, Work, and our Lives
Lunch
Workshops
I. Workshop (Room A): Fellowships and Grant Opportunities on Career Development
Aslı Vural, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK)
II. Workshop (Room B): Harnessing the Power of Soft Skills for Employability
Assist. Prof. Dogukan Ulupinar, Long Island University
Break
Plenary Talk
- Farouk Dey, Johns Hopkins University, Keynote Speaker
Q&A and Discussion
Break
Invited Talk
- Assist. Prof. Esra Durceylan Kaygusuz, Sabancı University, Invited Speaker
Future of Work
Best Practices
- Personalized Career Intervention Program for Career Centers
Dr. Ahmet Ayaz, Hasan Kalyoncu University
- How to Draw a Career Road Map for University Students: A to Z Steps and Practices from Dokuz Eylul University
Dr. Ersan Bellitaş, Dokuz Eylül University
Coffee Break
Best Practices
- TED University WanTED Roundtable Network Meetings
Betül Sezer Kızıltepe, TED University
- Career Ambassadors Program – Capacity Building Program for Career Development via Student Leaders as Peer Career Advisors
Tuna Dağlı, Koç University
Break
Invited Talk
- Yasir Kurt, Johns Hopkins University, Invited Speaker
Transforming Career Services Through Life Design
Poster Session
- Career Interventions for University Students in Türkiye: What Have We Learned and What Could be Next?
Kadem Gürkan AKYAZI, Ondokuz Mayıs University
- The Effect of a Psychoeducation Program Based on the Hope-Focused Career Development Model on Immigrant High School Students
Esat Şanlı, Ondokuz Mayis University
- Tailored Career Counseling: Building Interventions for Vocational Identity Statuses
Mustafa Rahman Özden, Dokuz Eylul University
- Green Human Resources in European Union Countries
Safiye Çalapkorur Horoz , İzmir Institute of Technology
- Career 4.0 from the Perspective of Youth
Alaeddin Türkmen, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University
- Improving University Students' Perceived Employability: An Action Research Based on Peer Counseling
Dr. Ahmet Ayaz, Hasan Kalyoncu University
- Navigating the School-to-Work Transition: Insight From Psychology of Working Theory Perspective
Furkan Kirazcı, Ondokuz Mayıs University
- Accessing Decent Work in the Future Business World: Perspectives of Young Adults Transitioning From School to Work
Zeynep Öznur Yazan, Ondokuz Mayis University
- Exploring Employability Skills in University Students: A Mixed Methods Study
Fatih Furkan Eğritaş, Hasan Kalyoncu University
- The Effect of Hope-Centered Career Development Psychoeducation Program in Terms of Career Decision Making Self-efficacy and Career Distress
Özge Akkoç, Dokuz Eylul University
- What Color is The Graduation? Exploring Emotions About University Graduation
Zeynep Görgülü, Selçuk University
- Implementation of a Career Development program for Refugees Students
Ulukbek Visid uulu, American University of Central Asia (AUCA)
Networking Welcome Reception
Instructions for presenters:
Oral Presentation:
· Familiarize yourself with the schedule: know your presentation date, time, and hall.
· Ensure your presentation is in Microsoft PowerPoint format (.ppt or .pptx).
· If your presentation includes videos, please check that it on the presentation omputer in the room that you’ll present.
· Ensure visuals are properly embedded within your presentation file.
· It's recommended to use standard fonts, sizes, and colors to ensure clarity.
· Please check the allocated time for your presentation including Q&A. As a guide, try not to exceed 1 slide for each minute.
· Submit your presentation to the technical staff of the meeting room at least 2 sessions before your scheduled time.
· Introduce yourself to the session chairperson before the commencement of your session.
Poster Presentation:
· Prepare your posters min. in 70x100 cm and max. in 100x120 cm. dimensions (portrait). Printing is the responsibility of the presenter.
· Opt for legible fonts, sizes, and visuals that are easily discernible from a standard viewing distance.
· Recommended elements to include in your poster: Re-shaping Career Planning logo, title, authors' names and affiliations, introduction, methods, results, conclusion, references, and acknowledgment.
· You must be present during your assigned poster session.
Instructions for Registration & Participation
All participants, including who wish to make a presentation, are required to register for the conference.
Early registration is strongly recommended to finalize the conference program and plan the event effectively.
To register, please follow these steps:
1. Click on the "Register Now" button
2. Select your registration type
3. Fill in the required information on the registration form and check-out
4. You will receive an email upon complete your registration.
5. Your will receive your Registration Confirmation email upon completing your payment
Registration related FAQ:
Q: Do the registration fees differ for those who will be presenting?
A: Making a presentation does not affect the registration fees.
Q: Which registration type should I choose?
A: Your registration type/fees depend on the institution you're working for.
Q: Is payment mandatory during registration? Can I pay later on?
A: Choose the option "Book now, Pay later" at the check-out stage if you want to make your payment later. You can log in to your account later on and make your payment by credit card or wire transfer.
Q: Is making a presentation required to attend the conference?
A: Submitting and making a presentation is optional. You can attend the conference for listening purposes only.
Ready to register? Click Here
If you need further assistance or have questions, please email us at erman@arber.com.tr.
REGISTRATION FEES
Includes: Participation kit (badge, bag, and certificate of attendance), Welcome reception, Coffee breaks & Lunches, Access to the scientific sessions, Book of abstracts (online).
The organizing committee will provide financial support to participants who are struggling to cover participation costs (and preferably have contributed).
* All members of universities including career center professionals and academicians
** Professionals within 2 years after last graduate degree
You can apply now for financial support by clicking Register Now!
For questions about registration, please email erman@arber.com.tr
Call for Contributions (optional)
We are pleased to announce that the abstract submissions deadline for poster presentations has been extended until May 31, 2024. The regular contribution submission deadline for best practices and workshop proposals has now passed.
We encourage early career researchers and graduate students to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their research and engage with professionals and experts in the field of career planning.
The deadline to submit your proposal for poster presentations is May 31, 2024.
Please submit your proposals online by clicking HERE.
If you have already submitted your contribution, click HERE to update and/or follow your evaluation process.
Please note that the conference language is English. However, you can present in Turkish as simultaneous Turkish-English translation will be provided during the conference.
- For questions about proposal submissions, please email elifbalin(at)gmail.com
- For questions about about registartion, payment, social activities, travel and booking issues, please email esat@arber.com.tr
Best Poster Award & Financial Supports
We invite graduate students and early career professionals (i.e., those within two years of completing their last graduate degree) to submit a poster presentation to share their student or new professional perspectives, transition to work-life experiences, and ideal career planning model or career services structure based on their experiences and observations. We encourage both content-driven and creative (i.e., design or art-driven) posters.
To be eligible for the Best Poster Awards and Financial Support, participants must:
1. Submit a contribution related to the conference themes.
2. Have their presentation accepted by the program committee.
3. Attend the conference and deliver their presentation in person.
Awards:
The program committee will evaluate the poster presentations based on their originality, relevance, method, and potential impact.
The top three poster presentations will receive the following awards:
First Place: 15.000 ₺
Second Place: 10.000 ₺
Third Place: 5.000 ₺
Financial Support:
Accepted contributors (presenters) will have their registration fees waived.
We look forward to learning from your experiences and emerging expertise in career development.
Program Committee:
Assoc.Prof. Elif Balın, SFSU, USA
Prof.Dr. Ayşenur Büyükgöze-Kavas, OMÜ, Türkiye
Prof.Dr. Oya Güneri, TEDU, Türkiye
Prof.Dr. Y. Eren Kalay, METU, Türkiye
Prof.Dr. Diğdem M. Siyez, DEU, Türkiye
Local Organizing Committee:
Dr. Esat Arber
Dr. Yunus Bıyık, METU CPC
Deniz Dönmez, METU CPC
Güllühan Orhan, METU CPC
Ülkü Ungan Önder, METU CPC
Dr. Ozan Yavuz, METU CPC
Conference Venue
The Conference will be held at the METU Culture and Convention Center - KKM
This modern venue is located on the Middle East Technical University (ODTÜ) campus, just 7km from central Ankara and the Kızılay district. It features versatile halls, meeting rooms, and facilities to enable an impactful conference experience.
Attendees can take metro line M2 directly to the ODTÜ metro station on campus. KKM is just 1.5km from station A1, with dolmus shuttle transport available.
Ankara’s airport is 45km away, while the main bus terminal is just 4km from the university location. Multiple public transport options make traveling to the venue quite convenient.
We look forward to hosting our collaborative career planning discussions at METU KKM’s exceptional facilities and welcoming you to explore Türkiye's dynamic capital!
Middle East Technical University - METU
METU is a pioneer university at an international level, which transforms its region and the world.
METU is home to over 26,500+ students and 2,200+ academic staff working on a mission of attaining excellence in research, education, and public service for society, humanity, and nature by nurturing creative and critical thinking, innovation, and leadership within a framework of universal values.
Middle East Technical University excels in science and innovation - as demonstrated by recent honors, funding, and projects. Over the past 5 years, METU has received over 280 awards recognizing excellence across scientific endeavors. 58 new research grants have been secured enabling work on over 300 research projects - cooperatively and with leading agencies like TÜBİTAK. With achievements spanning from central research centers to international cooperatives, METU’s drive to transform understanding through borderless research continues.
Please click METU official website for more details...
Sponsorship Opportunities
We welcome sponsors who would like to showcase their brands, solutions, and commitment to advancing career planning in the face of AI challenges.
As a sponsor, you'll have the opportunity to:
• Gain exposure to a diverse audience of professionals, academics, and decision-makers in the field of career planning
• Demonstrate your company's thought leadership and innovative solutions
• Network with key stakeholders and build valuable partnerships
We offer only sponsorship and booth opportunities designed to suit your company's needs and goals:
• Sponsorship: Limited with 3 companies and include prominent logo placement, a 15-minutes talk and an exhibitor booth.
• Booth: Includes logo placement and an exhibitor booth.
To learn more about how your company can get involved, please contact Mr. Erman at erman@arber.com.tr.
Join us in shaping the future of career planning. Become a sponsor today!
Host City Ankara
Ankara, Turkey's capital, is a historic city with roots dating back to ancient civilizations. Formerly known as Ancyra and Angora, it served as the capital of Galatia and later the Roman province with the same name. Positioned in central Anatolia, Ankara's urban center houses 5.1 million people, making it Turkey's second-largest city. The historic center features the remnants of Ankara Castle, offering a glimpse into its diverse past.
An integral player in Turkish history, Ankara became the political center during the establishment of the Grand National Assembly in 1920 and assumed the role of the national capital in 1923. Beyond its governmental significance, Ankara is a thriving commercial and industrial hub, strategically located at the crossroads of Turkey's transportation networks. The city seamlessly blends its historical heritage with modern vitality, symbolizing resilience and progress in the heart of Turkey.
Excursions
Explore More, Learn More!
We understand that a conference isn't just about the presentations and discussions; it's also an opportunity to explore and unwind. That's why we're thrilled to offer post-conference tours. Immerse yourself in local culture, history, and nature while also connecting with fellow attendees.
Half-day Ankara City Tour; Wednesday, 26 June 2024
Embark on an insightful half-day tour of Ankara's top historical and cultural sites.
Begin with a visit to the magnificent Ankara Castle, an ancient citadel with panoramic views of the city. Explore the towers, ramparts, and museums while learning about Ankara's strategic importance over millennia.
Continue to the renowned Anatolian Civilizations Museum, hailed for its expansive collection of Anatolian artifacts. Marvel at its chronological exhibits spanning ancient ages to the advent of the Republic. See exhibits like the ornate sarcophagus of King Midas.
Conclude at Atatürk's Mausoleum (Anıtkabir), the impressive memorial and final resting place of modern Turkey's iconic founder. View the Ceremonial Plaza's array of sculptures and symbolism while reflecting on Atatürk's immense impact.
The tour concludes and returns to central Ankara by early afternoon.
Fees: Included in All-Inclusive Registration
Tour Schedule Details:
- Departure from the Venue: 13:30
- Return to the venue: 19:00
Additional Information:
- Please note that luggage storage will be available on the tour bus.
- Please note that entrance tickets to museums are not included, wearing sneakers is recommended for your comfort, and the tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
All bookings are closed by June 14, 2024.
Three-days Cappadocia Post-Conference Tour; 26-27-28 June 2024
Day 1 – Wednesday, 26 June 2024
• Depart from METU, Ankara at 12:00
• Stop at Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake) for photo opportunity
• Proceed to Cappadocia and arrival to ürgüp
• Check-in to your hotel and dinner
• Evening at leisure to explore the town or relax at the hotel
Day 2 – Thursday, 27 June 2024
• Start the day with a visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the rock-cut churches and frescoes
• Continue to Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views of the region
• After lunch, visit the Pigeon Valley, known for its unique rock formations and pigeon houses carved into the cliffs
• Explore the Paşapagi Fairy-chimneys, also known as "Monks Valley," with its unique cone-shaped rock formations
• Stop at Avanos, a town famous for its pottery traditions, and witness a pottery demonstration by local artisans
• End the day with a visit to the Dervent Valley, also known as the "Imaginary Valley," to admire the unique fairy chimneys and rock formations
Day 3 – Friday, 28 June 2024
• Start the day by visiting the Urgup Fairy-chimneys, a cluster of unique rock formations in the town of Urgup
• Proceed to the Derinkuyu Underground City, one of the largest underground cities in Cappadocia, and explore its intricate network of tunnels and cave dwellings
• After lunch, visit Ortahisar Town, known for its rock-carved houses and churches
• Spend some time in the Göreme Valley, famous for its unique rock formations and panoramic views
• Head to Nevşehir Airport for your departure flight or drive back to Ankara, depending on your preference
Fees: 8.750,00
Tour Schedule Details:
- Departure from the Venue: Wednesday, 12:00
- Return to the Ankara: 19:00
The departure date and time are subject to change upon the request of the majority, taking into consideration the final conference agenda.
Tour Package Includes:
- Comfortable A/C transportation, parking and road tolls
- 2 Nights accommodation sharing a double room
- 2 Breakfasts and 2 dinners
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
Please note that:
- Luggage storage is available on the tour minibus.
- Entrance tickets to museums are not included
- Lunches, drinks during the meals are not included.
- Wearing sneakers is recommended for your comfort, and the tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
- The tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
