My advice to students in the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Biotechnology program is to focus on building a solid foundation in the basic sciences from the start. In-depth knowledge in biology, chemistry and physics can make a big difference in understanding the more advanced topics of the program. Also, special attention should be paid to courses such as mathematics and statistics, as biotechnological studies often require complex data analysis.
Given the laboratory-oriented nature of the program, it is important for students to continuously develop their laboratory skills. Active participation in laboratory courses, taking responsibility during experiments and carefully analyzing the results will increase students' practical skills. In this process, not being afraid to make mistakes and learning from each experiment develops scientific mindset and problem-solving abilities.
Working in the field of agricultural biotechnology requires students to continuously update their knowledge and learn new technologies. Therefore, it is of great importance to follow the current literature in the field and attend relevant seminars and conferences. Such events also provide students with opportunities for networking and exchanging ideas, which can enhance career opportunities.
During the program, students should be encouraged to engage in project-based work and reflect on real-world problems. This is especially evident in applied courses such as plant and animal biotechnology. Students' ability to find solutions to real problems in the field can directly affect their success in finding a job after graduation. Such projects also give students the ability to work interdisciplinarily and develop the ability to approach problems from different perspectives.
Finally, for agricultural biotechnology students, internships are an excellent opportunity to put the theoretical knowledge they have learned into practice. Internships give students the chance to gain experience in their field and build connections with potential employers. These experiences provide a great advantage in transitioning to professional life after graduation and provide students with hands-on knowledge and skills. Therefore, students should strongly consider doing one or more internships during the program.