World@VCU: Zehra Sahin Ilkorkor from Turkey

By Amelia Heymann

World@VCU is a VCU News feature, in partnership with the Global Education Office, that highlights students from around the world who enrich the VCU community. Zehra Sahin Ilkorkor is pursuing a Ph.D. in public policy and administration at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.

What should we know about your home country?

Türkiye is situated between Europe and Asia, and that geography has shaped a culture that blends diverse traditions, perspectives and histories. Türkiye is home to civilizations that span thousands of years. Growing up in such a culturally layered environment gave me an early appreciation for diversity and for understanding how different societies and institutions evolve.

What inspired you to study at VCU?

VCU's flexible curriculum was a major draw. The program's structure allowed me to tailor my coursework to my research interests. For example, I took public policy and public administration courses at the Wilder School, econometrics courses through the Business School and "Preparing Future Faculty" courses offered by the School of Education and the Graduate School. These opportunities allowed me to build interdisciplinary skills and relationships across the university.

Tell us about a favorite memory or experience so far here in America.

I arrived in the United States with two suitcases and many uncertainties. Yet within just a few days of starting the Wilder School, I realized I had found a place where I belonged.

The community here has been incredibly welcoming. My classmates come from all over the world, and I have always felt supported. The international perspectives we bring often challenge the assumptions embedded in U.S.-focused coursework, and those perspectives are always valued by both faculty and peers. Being part of a community that truly appreciates our different backgrounds and lived experiences has made this journey especially meaningful to me.

Has there been a surprise during your time studying abroad?

One of the most meaningful surprises has been finding an extraordinary mentor, Dr. Sarah Jane Brubaker. I first met her as a student in one of her classes. Later, she became my dissertation chair. Learning from her through mentorship, research collaboration and professional service has been incredibly inspiring. These experiences have not only shaped my academic development but have also influenced how I envision my own role as a public policy scholar.

Share something about a significant achievement or project.

During my time in the program, I have received prestigious national recognitions in the field of public policy and public administration, including ASPA Founders' Fellow, ASPA Walter W. Mode Award and

APPAM Excellence, Equity and Inclusion Award.. But my doctoral journey has been about far more than academic achievements. It has been a process of intellectual growth, resilience and self-discovery.

I have come to see myself as both a challenger and a lifelong learner. I have presented research at national conferences, published peer-reviewed articles in well-known journals, collaborated on interdisciplinary research projects and built meaningful relationships with mentors, collaborators and faculty members. As a first-generation college student and the only person in my family to pursue a Ph.D., this journey represents both a personal and professional milestone.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Spending time with friends has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life in Richmond. I enjoy hosting small "chai-chat" gatherings, catching a Broadway performance at the Altria Theater, having lunch or dinner at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and exploring the trails along the James River. These moments help me stay connected to the community and build friendships that make Richmond feel like home.

Give us a glimpse into your future.

I aim to build a career that bridges academia and public policy practice. My work focuses on education and social policies. Ultimately, I want to contribute to designing evidence-based public policies that expand opportunity, strengthen communities and improve the well-being of all individuals. I am also deeply committed to mentoring and inspiring young people, especially women from developing countries, to pursue careers in research and to dream boldly.

Any advice for international students just starting their journeys?

Be open-minded. Don't be afraid to ask questions or to share your perspectives. Your lived experiences and international background are valuable, and they enrich conversations and challenge assumptions. Embrace those differences, and allow them to shape both your academic journey and your personal growth.