Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Faculty of Dentistry celebrated the graduation of 156 students in the 2023-2024 academic year, marking the culmination of their academic journey.

The graduation ceremony took place in the garden of the Faculty of Dentistry at OMU and was attended by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Murat Terzi, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Özkan, Vice Deans Prof. Dr. Emel Bulut and Prof. Dr. Mehmet Cihan Bereket, President of the Samsun Chamber of Dentists Dt. Övgü Tunçdemir Eyüboğlu, faculty members, and the families of the graduates.

"Our doors are always open to you"

Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Murat Terzi wished the graduates success in their new lives and said, "First of all, I would like to welcome our graduates and their families. Our graduating students have learned much from their professors over the past five years. You will now apply this knowledge in the field. But remember, whenever you need us, our doors are always open. As a graduate of OMU, an accredited and international university, you will see the benefits it brings you. I have witnessed the dedication of the academic staff at the Faculty of Dentistry in developing you. I wish you all success in your future careers."

“I hope you base your values on honesty, hard work, responsibility, fairness, generosity, and respect for others”

In her opening speech, Dean Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Özkan addressed the students: "In the 21st century, we are living in times where the powerful are considered right, the popular mindset is taken as truth, realities are concealed, and we are forced to live with the prevailing truths that format our minds. As renowned author Alev Alatlı says, 'The most formidable adversary of truth in this century is the truths that fuel the new world order.' Whether a better world can be built or not is now up to you, the young generation. It's time to take the reins of your own lives. Never underestimate your power to create positive change for our society and the world. Pursue your goals and passions with patience and determination. Do what you believe is right. It's always tempting to take the easy route that feels good and doesn't require stepping out of your comfort zone. This is why everything is deteriorating. I hope you base your values on honesty, hard work, responsibility, fairness, generosity, and respect for others. Even if it is difficult and troublesome, listen to your conscience and be part of the solution, not the problem. Lastly, no one can achieve great things alone. If we are to overcome these difficult times, we must do it together. Be aware of each other's struggles, protect each other's rights, and don't remain indifferent to others' pain and misfortunes."

“We will try our best to solve your questions and problems”

President of the Samsun Chamber of Dentists Dt. Övgü Tunçdemir Eyüboğlu assured the new graduates that they would have their support, saying, "Today, we are here to share the happiness of our young graduates who are stepping into the profession of dentistry. Our young colleagues are starting their careers in a challenging economic period. The dental profession inflation in our country adds to this difficulty, making it a tough start. But I am sure they will see the advantage of graduating from a good faculty. For this, I would like to thank our esteemed professors. Dear young colleagues, I am confident that you will be respectful of your profession and surroundings, adhere to ethical rules, prioritize human feelings, continue on the enlightened path of Atatürk, and stay true to science. In the early days of your career, we will do our best to solve your questions and problems. With the care you show, our profession deserves to reach even better places. As the Samsun Chamber of Dentists, we are always ready to support you both professionally and socially."

"I hope we all achieve our dreams and reach the places we deserve"

Addressing her fellow students, Faculty valedictorian Kübra Keskin said, "Today, my friends and I are experiencing the excitement and pride of graduating as dentists after five years of intensive and challenging education. We have overcome many challenges during our dental education. We underwent a process filled with intensive theoretical courses, clinical internships, and numerous exams. All our sacrifices, efforts, and hard work are crowned today with this ceremony. On behalf of my friends, I would like to thank all of our professors for sharing their knowledge and experience with us. Today, we are graduating not only as dentists but also as individuals who will touch people's lives, bringing health and happiness. I hope we all achieve our dreams and reach the places we deserve. I congratulate all my friends and wish them success in their future lives."

The ceremony concluded with the top student, Kübra Keskin, nailing the top student plaque to the period log alongside Faculty Dean Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Özkan. Following this, the successful graduates received their awards and certificates. The graduation ceremony ended with the graduates throwing their caps in the air, celebrating their achievements.