PRESIDENT | MURAT KEREM ERSIN | SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY LAW SCHOOL

Murat Kerem Ersin is a Juris Doctor graduate of Suffolk University Law School and holds a law degree (LL.B.) from Koç University. His professional interests include international, corporate, and tax law, as well as legal technology. Murat began his involvement with the NETSA in 2023 as an Event Coordinator, organizing community and networking events for Turkish students. He now serves as President, where he oversees the team’s initiatives, coordinates planning efforts, and helps shape the organization’s vision and priorities.Outside of his legal pursuits and community involvement, Murat enjoys networking, working out, exploring new restaurants, staying engaged with fashion and trends, and crafting cocktails.

VICE PRESIDENT | OMER SEYFEDDIN KOC | NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Omer Seyfeddin Koc is a Data Science graduate from Northeastern University (Class of 2025), with a background in Industrial Engineering from Istanbul Technical University. His passion lies in transforming complex datasets into clear, actionable strategies through machine learning, predictive modeling, and impactful data visualization. He joined the New England Turkish Student Association (NETSA) as Treasurer in 2023 and currently serves as Vice President, where he leads community initiatives and provides technical expertise to support the organization’s growth. Outside of data and community work, Omer is a curious mind with a love for history, a lifelong football fan, and a music enthusiast.

DIRECTOR | MELISA BULUT | The University of Kansas

Melisa holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from the University of Kansas School of Law, where she was a scholarship recipient and an active member of the International Law Association and Women in Law Society. She completed her legal education at Bahçeşehir University School of Law in Turkey, served as president of the IT & Technology Law Club, and broadened her global perspective through studies at the University of Valencia in Spain. With a strong multicultural background and extensive networking experience, Melisa has cultivated a unique ability to engage with diverse communities. She is currently working as a Law Clerk at an immigration law office. As the Director of NETSA, Melisa brings her passion for cultural exchange, community involvement, and human connection to every initiative. In her spare time, she enjoys dancing, photography, and playing pinball.

EVENT COORDINATOR | SAMET TEMURCIN | NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Samet Temurcin is pursuing a Master of Science in Data Analytics Engineering at Northeastern University. He holds a Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering from Gaziantep University. His interests include data science, machine learning, business intelligence, and statistical modeling. Through NETSA, he helps Turkish students navigate academic life and adapt to U.S. culture, building a strong, connected community. Since joining NETSA in 2025 as an Event Coordinator, he has helped build this community through creative events and collaborative initiatives. Outside academics, he focuses on leadership development, staying updated on data and technology trends, and applying analytical thinking to real-world challenges. In his free time, he enjoys playing tennis and participating in collaborative projects.

SECRETARY | BENSU MERCAN | BOSTON COLLEGE

Bensu Mercan completed her undergraduate studies in Psychology, beginning at Ankara University and graduating from Salem State University with a Bachelor of Science. Her academic and professional interests include child and adolescent mental health, multicultural counseling, and art and play based therapeutic approaches. Bensu is currently completing her OPT at 17 Healers Inc., a nonprofit organization offering inclusive mental health support to diverse communities. In Fall 2025, she will begin her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling at Boston College. She joined NETSA in 2022 and served as Secretary. Outside of her academic interests in multicultural and expressive therapies, Bensu enjoys cooking and hiking.