Sterling's Turkey experience

My experience in Istanbul, Turkey with the Global Internship Program was exceptional. Every day was a new adventure and learning experience—both in and out of the office. Before traveling to Istanbul, I knew very little about the city. I thought Istanbul was going to be unsafe and dirty; however, I was incorrect in my assumptions. I felt safer in Istanbul than other European cities I have visited. Plus, I would rank Istanbul first in public transportation cleanliness. I found the Turkish people to be kind, generous, and hospitable. I love everything about Istanbul—the people, the city, the food, and all of the sights and sounds.

During my time in Istanbul, I was exposed to a different side of the public accounting world—fraud investigation and fraud management. As a member of Deloitte Turkey’s ERS Forensics team, I learned how to “catch the bad guys.” I heard phrases such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, due diligence, and fraud risk assessment almost every day.

One of the biggest contributors to my education is the experience of my team members and their willingness to teach me. Another reason why I love Turkey—the willingness of experienced professionals to teach newcomers. 

Deloitte Turkey’s Istanbul office is similar to the Deloitte US firm’s Houston office, yet very different. For example, it has similar Deloitte banners and signs, but it has an open floor plan—Deloitte Turkey’s member firm partners are mixed in with the consultants. The only person who has their own office is the lead ERS partner. Everyone else is spread out along rectangular tables. Another key difference is they have an employee dedicated to bringing beverages (tea, water, coffee, etc.) twice a day—morning and afternoon—and will come additional times if you give him or her a call. I usually ordered a glass of traditional Turkish tea, or çay. With a cube of sugar, it is delicious.

I learned that Turkish coffee is the real deal. No need for a coffee maker—hot water is poured directly onto finely ground coffee beans in a coffee cup. Since the grounds are on the bottom of the cup, the sugar (if any) has to be added in before the coffee is made. It comes in three “flavors”—without sugar, with a little bit of sugar, and with a lot sugar.

I can proudly say that I tried almost every type of public transportation offered in Istanbul. This includes a bus network, rail systems, funiculars, and maritime services. Every day was a new transportation combination, which kept things fresh and new.

Through the Global Internship Program, I have gained a better understanding of the world around me, developed a global network, and created unforgettable memories. This experience has opened my eyes to different life and work styles. I am thankful to be part of the Deloitte family of member firms, and I look forward to returning to my home away from home—Istanbul, Turkey.