Meryem earned her Master of Science in Architecture degree in 2026. She previously received her Master of Architecture degree from Temple University in May 2021 and her bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture and Environmental Design from Bilkent University in June 2018.
She had developed an early interest in Architecture before her formal education growing up in a family of constructors and engineers. She started her professional career at Kelly Maiello Architects. Her professional curiosity on how we build our physical space around us and how design affects people and their daily lives makes her strive for excellence in overcoming design challenges in her projects.
Why did you choose the MS program at PENN and what has it allowed you to achieve educationally?
After several years of professional practice, I chose Penn’s MS in Architecture program to challenge myself intellectually and explore how research can inform better design. My work focused on post-disaster reconstruction in Türkiye, examining how sustainability and community participation can contribute to more resilient built environments. The program strengthened my ability to connect research with practice and gave me a broader perspective on architecture as a tool for addressing real-world challenges.
Education
Master of Science in Architecture, University of Pennsylvania, 2026
Master of Architecture, Tyler School of Art and Architecture Temple University, 2021
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture and Environmental Design, Bilkent University, 2018
