Dish of the Day

It was anything but an ordinary Saturday at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU). A lively “Çok Güzel Hareketler 2” atmosphere filled the Atatürk Cultural Center as popular BKM Mutfak performers Hilmi Deler, Cenan Adıgüzel, Cemile Canyurt and Ebru Yücel brought their stage energy to campus at the invitation of the Youth Community affiliated with the OMU Department of Health, Culture and Sports.

The event, which energized the weekend for hundreds of students, offered more than the chance to see familiar faces. Attendees also joined an intimate conversation about the performing arts and the realities of the creative sector. Moderated by Youth Community President Ertan Atasayar, the talk titled “From the Screen to the Campus” felt less like a formal panel and more like a reunion of old friends.

“Theatre is not an escape, but a matter of passion”

Before their performance in Samsun, the BKM Mutfak actors met with OMU students and answered questions. Reflecting on young people’s interest in theatre, Cenan Adıgüzel emphasized that the craft cannot be treated merely as a hobby. Sharing insights from his experience in the sector, he noted that those who step onto the stage only to avoid academic responsibilities rarely remain in the field. “If you don’t truly love it, even studying may feel more enjoyable than theatre. Theatre is not a place to escape, it is a space only for those who are genuinely passionate,” he said, highlighting the dedication required in the arts.

“Secure your golden bracelet; finish your education”

Ebru Yücel, known for her vibrant stage presence, offered what she described as “big-sister advice” to students. Asked what she would do differently if she returned to her university years, she stressed the importance of completing one’s education. “Finish your studies first. Your diploma is your golden bracelet. Everyone in our team is a university graduate, and many of the most valuable life lessons were learned during those years,” she said.

“Student communities are life schools”

Cemile Canyurt reflected on her own university experience and the value of campus life and student clubs. Recalling her time as a member of a university arts community, she highlighted the benefits of forming friendships across different departments. “You meet people from various disciplines through student communities, and that brings wonderful advantages. Value this time, these communities are not just social spaces; they are life schools,” she said. Hilmi Deler, visibly energized by the atmosphere at OMU, expressed his enthusiasm for engaging with students and eagerly answered questions from the audience.

Student-driven cultural life on campus

Ertan Atasayar, President of the Youth Community, noted that positive feedback from fellow students remains their main source of motivation. Since 2011, the community has organized numerous high-impact campus events and plans to continue cultural activities in line with student interests and expectations.

As the laughter-filled Q&A session concluded, the final act of the event featured a moment of appreciation. OMU Head of the Department of Health, Culture and Sports Selman Aslan, Youth Community Advisor Prof. Dr. Tamer Aslan and Community President Ertan Atasayar took the stage to present certificates of appreciation to the guest performers on behalf of OMU.

The memorable gathering ended with a cheerful group selfie, capturing the spirit of a weekend that brought art, laughter and campus life together in a single frame.