From Istanbul to New York: Nejla Gul-Saglam’s inspiring educational path

When Turkish Nejla Gul-Saglam began her computer programming journey at Sakarya University in 2007, she didn’t know how many times her dream would evolve and be tested. Today, as a full-time engineering management professional, mother and proud graduate of Cu Boulder’s 2025 Master of Engineering Management, Nejla’s story is one of resilience, support and adaptability that she ruthlessly pursues further education.

Passion for teaching, transfer

Nejla’s career began with technology, but her heart has always attracted teaching. Influenced by her grandparents, she first pursued an associate degree in computer programming and later enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program with the hope of becoming a teacher. While pursuing the bachelor, she began to realize her dream by teaching at a nonprofit organization in Istanbul. But, she knew that in order to move forward, she needed to complete her degree.

At the beginning of her experience as a teacher, shortly after marrying her husband, Neyera found herself pregnant and temporarily put her dreams on hold. Her husband’s job requires him to move between the United States and Türkiye, a situation that only makes the newborn in the picture more challenging. As a result, her bachelor’s degree program has only three remaining and her life begins to change.

Begin, a course

“When we arrived in the United States, I knew it wasn’t easy to accept, especially as a woman from a completely different culture,” Neyera recalls. “But I never stopped believing. It has been my dream to learn abroad, experience world-class education, explore new cultures and build bridges between different cultures.”

Determined to adapt and thrive, Nejla discovered new learning opportunities on Coursera. “Although my English skills are very basic, I’m always looking for a place that can add meaningful value.” With that in mind, Nejla also perfected her English skills on Coursera, while also taking courses in business and computer science. “I signed up for a lot of courses – maybe more than 200!” she said.

Initially, it was a hard work to improve English and became an in-depth study in the science and technology community that her education began. She has participated in courses in software development, AI, product development, project management and communication, including certification from organizations such as IBM, Google.

However, economic limitations and still incomplete bachelor’s degree make formal education difficult. “I only have three courses left before we have to move to the United States,” Neyera said. Additionally, re-entering at school became a bigger obstacle as she was waiting for the challenges of her transcripts sent from Turkey. While she waited, she completed over 40 certificate programs through Coursera Plus and other online platforms, an effort that greatly improved her career and helped her play more advanced roles in technology.

“I am determined to overcome prejudice and turn my differences into the power of leadership. I always really care about the people around me and have the desire to make the world a better place. I have received considerable work in New York City and proved that successful people are possible, even if many women are inspired in our community, can start many women from our community and start their own potential.”

Turning point: changpt and a new path forward

Despite her hard work on online certificates and sleepless nights studying over 20 independent learning management books she ordered, Nejla was desperate in her pursuit of her degree. With her bachelor’s degree still incomplete and her transcript seems to be stagnant, she begins to question whether college is still a realistic choice. Then, she asked a key question: “Are there any bachelor’s degree universities offering master’s degrees?”

Search led her to the University of Colorado Boulder University Master of Engineering Management Engineering and its Performance-Based Admission (PBA) Pathway. This is a time when everything changes. Nejla submitted an inquiry and contacted by Coursera Admission Representative Carolyn.

“I’m on the verge of tears,” Neyera said. “Carolyn is incredible – she recognizes my deep commitment to education and personal growth. She encourages me, saying, ‘nejla, you can do that.’ She believes in me because she can see me going through a journey of Coursera history and other external education.”

Upgrade her study

With the full support of the manager, Nejla embarked on a performance-based course that would determine her eligibility for a master’s program. She performed outstandingly, completing several majors in leadership and project management, and completing the highest grades.

better, With the overlay of courses, Nejla was able to upgrade some of the courses she did on Coursera at the time of admission to earn her degree. After years of struggle, Nejla learned that it was an option and finally made her hard work pay off.

“That’s exactly what I’ve been looking for – a flexible program that allows me to act at my own pace. I’ve come from the heart of the tech industry with reliable experience and I’ve completed a prestigious certificate program. I’ve managed the costs step by step, worked with employers, built support with employers, and kept moving forward.”

One of the favorite aspects of the program is its own rhythmic format and flexibility, Nejla notes. “It blends perfectly with my productive morning routine and my busy schedule as a company professional and mom.”

Proud graduates

As a 2025 graduate of the program, Nejla’s learning journey is far from over. This year, she was admitted to the PhD program in Strategic Leadership at Liberty University.

“It’s a huge milestone for me. Now, when recognizing a diploma in the United States, it feels like I’ve finally been seen. I’ve come a long way and I’m proud of my journey. I’ll continue to work hard to let those who stand by me witness another milestone along the way.”

Gratitude and inspiration

“I know I can’t do it alone,” she said. “I will always be grateful to the people around me. It may be my story, but their support has been woven into every part of it. Each of them is a big part of my journey because the lights are guided along the way.”

Nejla’s story is an inspiring story to say the least and clearly portrays a determination, support and flexibility in online learning that can achieve any personal goal.

Nigala’s thank you letter

Nejla attributes her success to unwavering inner motivation, the opportunities offered by online learning, and the incredible support of key figures throughout her life. Her husband Kemal stood by her side by her true partner, making homemade so she could focus on her goals. Her daughter Zeynep showed high patience, and every step she took was in her every step she had proved herself. She always encourages everything to be different. Her mentor Mike was the first to truly believe in her potential, and when she arrived in the United States he provided unwavering support for valuable advice on how to develop a leadership journey on how to balance a healthy work-life situation. Her manager Eric is very supportive and diligent in following up all round-trip emails to ensure her tuition support is approved and processed. Beyond that, he created a support space that allowed her to balance class responsibilities without burning it out at work. Carolyn from Coursera’s admissions team not only introduced her to the program, but also answered many of her questions with kindness and care.