When Turkish national Nejla Gul-Saglam commenced her path in Computer Programming at Sakarya University, Turkey, in 2007, she was unaware of how her aspirations would transform—and face challenges. Now, as a full-time engineering management expert, mother, and proud 2025 alumna of the Master of Engineering in Engineering Management from CU Boulder, Nejla’s narrative showcases resilience, encouragement, and adaptability in her unceasing quest for education enhancement.
A Drive for Teaching, Redirected
Nejla’s professional journey initiated in technology, yet her true passion always leaned towards teaching. Inspired by her grandparents, she initially sought an associate degree in computer programming before enrolling in a bachelor’s program, aspiring to become an educator. While pursuing her bachelor’s, she began to fulfill this ambition by teaching at a nonprofit organization in Istanbul. Nevertheless, she recognized that completing her degree was essential for her progression.
Amid her teaching endeavors, and shortly after marriage, Nejla discovered she was expecting, momentarily pausing her aspirations. Her husband’s job necessitated travels between the United States and Turkey, a situation that became increasingly complex with a newborn. Thus, with only three courses left in her bachelor’s degree program, her circumstances began to change.
Beginning Anew, One Class at a Time
“Upon our arrival in the U.S., I knew it would be challenging to gain acceptance, particularly as a woman from a vastly different culture,” Nejla reflects. “However, my belief never wavered. Studying abroad had always been my dream; to experience exceptional education, immerse in diverse cultures, and create connections across borders.”
Resolute to adapt and flourish, Nejla uncovered new educational opportunities through Coursera. “I aimed to find a platform where I could contribute positively, despite my basic English proficiency.” With this goal, she enhanced her English language skills on Coursera while also enrolling in business and computer science courses. “I signed up for a plethora of classes—maybe over 200!” she reminisces.
What began as an initiative to improve her English swiftly evolved into a deeper re-engagement with the tech industry where her educational journey initially started. She undertook courses in software development, AI, product development, project management, and communication, including certifications from entities like IBM and Google.
Nevertheless, financial constraints and an incomplete bachelor’s degree posed significant barriers to formal education. Nejla states, “I had only three courses remaining before we relocated to the United States.” Moreover, the delay in receiving her transcripts from Turkey added another layer of complexity in her efforts to re-enroll. During this time, she accomplished over 40 certificate programs through Coursera Plus and additional online resources—an undertaking that greatly enhanced her career prospects and enabled her to secure more advanced positions in technology.
“I was devoted to overcoming biases and converting my differences into a leadership strength. I have always sincerely cared for those around me, fueled by a desire to contribute positively to the world. My achievement of a respectable position in New York City and demonstrating that success is attainable without being a native English speaker or having studied in the U.S. inspired many women in our community to start believing in their own potential as well.”
A Turning Point: ChatGPT and a Fresh Direction
Despite her dedication towards online certifications and countless sleepless nights poring over 20 management texts for self-study, Nejla felt disheartened in her aspiration to earn a degree. With her bachelor’s incomplete and her transcripts seemingly stalled, she began to doubt if university was still a feasible path. She then posed a crucial question to ChatGPT: “Is there a university offering a master’s degree without a bachelor’s?”
This inquiry led her to the University of Colorado Boulder’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management, along with its Performance-Based Admissions (PBA) route. This was the turning point. Nejla submitted an inquiry and was subsequently contacted by Carolyn, a Coursera enrollment representative.
“I was on the verge of tears,” Nejla shares. “Carolyn was phenomenal—she recognized my profound commitment to education and personal development. She inspired me, stating, ‘Nejla, you can accomplish this.’ She had faith in me because she could see the journey I had undertaken through my Coursera history and other educational experiences.”
Enhancing Her Learning Experience
With her manager’s full endorsement, Nejla embarked on the performance-based coursework that would determine her eligibility for the master’s program. She thrived, achieving outstanding grades in multiple specializations related to leadership and project management.
Even more importantly, due to course stackability, Nejla was able to translate some of her previous coursework on Coursera into credit for her degree once she enrolled. After years of perseverance, she was ecstatic to discover that this was an option, allowing her hard work to finally bear fruit.
“It was precisely what I had been searching for—a flexible program that permitted me to progress at my own pace. Coming from the core of the tech industry with verifiable experience and having completed notable certificate programs, I carefully managed costs stepwise, collaborated with my employer for assistance, and persistently advanced.”
Nejla emphasizes that one of her favorite aspects of the program was its self-paced nature and flexibility. “It fit seamlessly into my productive morning routines and my hectic life as a corporate professional and a mother.”
A Proud Graduate
As a 2025 alumna of the program, Nejla’s educational expedition is far from over. This year, she gained admission into a doctoral program in Strategic Leadership at Liberty University.
“This is a significant milestone for me. Now, with a degree recognized in the U.S., it feels as though I am finally being acknowledged. I’ve traversed a long path, and I take pride in the journey I have undertaken. I will continue to work diligently to enable those who supported me to witness yet another milestone along the way.”
Appreciation and Motivation
“I know I couldn’t have achieved this alone,” she expresses. “I will forever be grateful to those who supported me throughout this entire process. This may be my story, but their encouragement is interwoven into every aspect of it. They have all been essential contributors to my journey, illuminating my path.”
Nejla’s journey is undoubtedly inspirational, clearly illustrating that with perseverance, support, and the flexibility of online education, any personal ambition can be fulfilled.
A Note of Gratitude from Nejla
Nejla attributes her success to a mix of relentless internal motivation, the possibilities provided by online learning, and the extraordinary backing of key individuals in her life. Her husband Kemal has been a steadfast partner, taking on household responsibilities so that she could concentrate on her aspirations. Zeynep, her daughter, exhibited remarkable patience, standing by her at every turn as she demonstrated her capabilities. She always provided the encouragement that made a significant difference. Her mentor, Mike, was the first person to sincerely believe in her potential upon her arrival in the U.S. He offered steadfast support, giving valuable advice on how to maintain a healthy work-life balance while navigating her leadership journey. Her manager Eric was extremely supportive, diligently addressing all follow-up emails to guarantee her tuition support was approved and allocated. Moreover, he fostered a nurturing environment that allowed her to balance her academic responsibilities without experiencing burnout at work. And Carolyn, from the Coursera enrollment team, not only introduced her to the program but also responded thoughtfully to all her numerous inquiries.
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