Beykoz University Graduate Abukar Ahmed Gaal Shares His Career Journey at Turkish Airlines
Abukar Ahmed Gaal, a 2023 graduate of the School of Civil Aviation, Aviation Management program at Beykoz University, shared his experiences from his education and career journey with us. Currently, he works in the Outstations Coordination Management team at Turkish Airlines in Somalia, and he reflected on his success story from his university years to the present.
Born in Mogadishu, Somalia, in 1997, Abukar studied Aviation Management at the School of Civil Aviation, Beykoz University from 2018 to 2023. He emphasized that Beykoz University not only provided him with academic knowledge but also supported his transition into the workforce by offering internship opportunities before graduation. Today, Abukar is proud to apply the theoretical knowledge he gained in a dynamic working environment and is grateful to be working at a prestigious company like Turkish Airlines in his home country.
"Choosing Beykoz University Was a Thoughtful Decision"
Abukar, who has had an interest in aviation since a young age, explained that the university’s strong reputation, focus on practical education, and its location in Istanbul, a major aviation hub, played a significant role in his decision to choose Beykoz University. He also highlighted the university’s industry connections as a key factor in shaping his decision.
"My Internship Experience Helped Me Understand the Sector More Closely"
Recalling his internship experience during his university years, Abukar shared that it aligned well with his expectations of the industry. The experience helped him gain a deeper understanding of operational challenges and the importance of coordination in aviation management. He mentioned that adapting to the fast-paced environment and managing multiple tasks efficiently were the biggest challenges he faced, but he was able to overcome them with the guidance of his mentors.
"Inspiring Professors and Events Enlightened My Path"
Abukar said that several professors and industry professionals inspired him throughout his education. Their perspectives on leadership and effective communication were particularly influential. Additionally, he mentioned that attending an industry event where professionals discussed the future of aviation broadened his vision and helped him set clear career goals.
Looking back, Abukar noted that more practical training in technical areas such as aircraft maintenance and logistics could have been beneficial. He also mentioned that more opportunities to network with industry professionals would have supported his career development.
Advice to New Students: Stay Curious and Seize Opportunities
For students aiming to build a career in aviation, Abukar emphasized the importance of staying curious and proactive. He encouraged students to take full advantage of internship opportunities, which provide invaluable real-world experience. Furthermore, he stressed the significance of personal skills such as communication and problem-solving, which play a major role in achieving success in the aviation industry.
We thank our graduate Abukar for sharing his story with us and wish him continued success in his career journey.
This content was updated on 09/04/2025.