Reading is my passport to the minds of great thinkers, building a connection that helps me understand and appreciate the world. Books are my escape—a calming, focused, and introspective journey.

I mostly read non-fiction, although I also enjoy the great works of literature. I have always been fascinated by biographies, and I love reading books on art, philosophy, and religion, finding inspiration in the words of Nietzsche, Russell, Goethe, and many more.

The ambiance of bookstores, the craftsmanship of bindings, and the nuances of typography captivate me as much as the content.  For me, the process of collecting books is not just about amassing volumes but curating a personal library that reflects the diverse landscapes of human thought. Essentially, books are my best friends!

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is an impressive martial art known for its cerebral nature. I started training jiu-jitsu 2.5 years ago as a pursuit of personal growth beyond academics, and I am currently a blue belt under John "The Red Velvet" Clarke.

The appeal of jiu-jitsu extends beyond its physical aspects, encompassing the chess game it presents. To excel at jiu-jitsu, one needs to be effective, knowledgeable about the art, and detail-oriented. Plain athleticism is not enough, just as being smart is not enough to be a good scientist.

Jiu-jitsu is more than a sport. In the short amount of time I have practiced the art, I have had a transformative experience—acquiring mental strength, self-control, and humility. I have found a path to personal growth through a journey that influences every facet of my life. I love the grind!

Wine is more than just a beverage. Tasting and enjoying wine is an holistic experience embracing geography,  gastronomy, and viticulture. My wine tasting journey started after watching SOMM, a documentary exploring the world of sommeliers. I was drawn to the complex world of wine and how intricate the taste can be.

When I indulge in wine, I don't just isolate distinct flavors. Rather, I prefer to embrace wine in its entirety, exploring the symphony and balance of components that come together to craft a seamless and delightful experience. I especially enjoy intellectual wines, those that are challenging my preconceptions about terroir and tase.

I have a particular fascination with tasting well-crafted wines that truly represent their terroir, prioritizing authenticity over price. I am really into the wines of Burgundy and Piedmont, particularly Beaujolais, Volnay, Chablis, Chambolle-Musigny, as well as Barolo and Barbaresco.

Wine tasting is a continual journey of discovery, and connection with different cultures—savoring the world in every sip!

I started skiing at the young age of 6 in Turkey, thanks to my family's encouragement. Since then, I have enjoyed skiing both as a challenging activity in the outback and as a gateway to the stunning views of winter.

I have skied in Turkey, the Alps, and the East coast of the US. I regularly visit the Dolomites of South Tyrol for Alpine skiing and to compete in amateur ski race events.

Winter sports aren't just enjoyable because of the brisk wind on one's face at high speeds, but also because of the awe-inspiring scenery, delectable food, mulled wine, and, naturally, the Après-ski entertainment.