Ezgi Avci '15 was a member of the volleyball team and majored in Business Administration. She is currently working as a TV host on TV8 in Turkey. It's a live magazine show produced five days a week.
Based on the degree you graduated with, why did you choose this direction for your education, and is it something you have always wanted to pursue?
I was still determining which field of study to pursue, but I knew it should be related to communication and presentation. As a TV host, I use these skills extensively in my work.
Favorite Florida Tech athletic memory?
As the volleyball team, during the preseason, we went to New York and then, next year, to Hawaii for a tournament.
Favorite Florida Tech campus memory?
For one summer holiday, I returned to my hometown, Istanbul, and unexpectedly entered the Miss Turkey competition, where I was crowned. When I returned to campus for the preseason in August, everyone called me Miss Turkey instead of my name.
Most significant accomplishment since leaving Florida Tech?
Since graduating, I've been on TV as the primary host of six shows. I've worked at two different channels, both of which are ranked among the top three in Turkey.
What are some of the challenges and successes that you face in your field?
In the media industry, competition is fierce, and strong communication and networking skills are essential—much like in other sectors. The more natural and authentic you are, the better you express yourself and attract attention. Your on-screen and off-screen personas must be consistent, as viewers can easily detect what's genuine and what's not.
How has being a collegiate athlete prepared you for your current work? What traits did you take from the field/court/pool that helped you be successful?
Being organized, punctual, adaptable to different environments, and focused on finding practical solutions have all been invaluable in my daily life and career. I credit these skills to my 14 years of playing volleyball, which gave me a strong sense of discipline. Additionally, I learned the importance of delegating tasks and trusting others.
Describe the main takeaway from Florida Tech that prepared you for the job market.
As an international student, my experience significantly improved my language fluency. Over time, I began thinking in English, even though it's not my native language. The same goes for understanding the culture and gestures. Beyond that, Florida Tech excelled in providing practical experiences to students. For instance, in one of my business classes, I traveled to Atlanta for a competition alongside a few other selected students. Additionally, on campus, we attended a formal dinner where we were taught how to behave in a business meeting.
Advice you would give a current scholar-athlete?
Being a college athlete is an incredible opportunity. Even now, there are times when I wish I could go back and relive those four years. My advice is not to waste time overthinking during your college years. Embrace every moment and live those four years to the fullest because you'll truly miss them. Trust me, you don't want to look back with any regrets.
