December 18, 2024
Epoka University students from the International Marketing and Logistics Management program had the opportunity to attend an insightful open forum hosted by Prof. Dr. Osman Koroglu, lecturer of Digital Marketing, on December 18, 2024.
The guest speaker, Judoris Merkaj, an Epoka alumna and Communications Officer at the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO), shared her expertise on the power of storytelling in marketing.
Merkaj, who has also co-founded the creative agency Sfera Studios, discussed how companies like Apple, Toms, and AirBNB leverage storytelling to connect with audiences on a deeper level. She also explored how emerging technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), are being used to enhance storytelling and create immersive experiences that engage customers in new ways. Her examples highlighted the evolving nature of marketing and the potential for these technologies to transform brand communication.
A significant part of Merkaj’s message was the importance of gaining clarity about one’s career direction before pursuing a master's degree. She advocated for taking a gap year to explore personal interests and passions. According to Merkaj, this period of self-reflection is essential for identifying what truly motivates you and making more informed decisions about your academic and professional future.
Merkaj also encouraged students to explore internship opportunities during this time. She highlighted how real-world experience, like that offered through RYCO’s youth-centered projects, can provide valuable insights into career paths and help students build skills that are directly applicable in the marketing industry.
