Ole Miss Professor Ahmet Yukleyen Describes His Research All Around the World

OXFORD, Miss.—The life of Ahmet Yukleyen has been far from boring. Born in the Netherlands to Turkish parents, he has checked quite a few incredible things off his bucket list. But how did Ahmet end up in Oxford, Mississippi?

            It all began when Ahmet received his high school and undergraduate education from institutions in Turkey. After graduation, he knew he wanted to broaden his horizons and study overseas.

            “I always dreamed of studying in the United States or the UK,” Ahmet said. “The appeal of the US was greater.”

            Denver, Colorado was location Ahmet chose to pursue his master’s degree. HE began studying international relations not knowing he would soon spark an interest in anthropology.

            Ahmet began studying cultural anthropology after reading a book on civil society in the Middle East by an anthropology professor at Boston University. Drawn to learning more about these cultures, he began traveling and conducting research.

            “I traveled to Morocco to observe the Islamic Movement in Morocco,” Ahmet said. “They were very much the strongest opposition movement that was challenging the King at the time.”

            According to Ahmet, Morocco was the most different country he has ever visited. Although he speaks Turkish, Dutch English and German fluently, language can still be a challenge when conducting research.

            “The language barrier was somewhat difficult in Morocco,” Ahmet said. “An interpreter has to help translate everything being said from the Arabic language.”

            Ahmet’s research has gone beyond Morocco. He has also studied several different European cities.

            “I love travelling to all of these different places because they are each so unique from one another,” Ahmet said. “I have a special connection with each of my research locations”

            Ahmet relocated to Memphis in order to maintain a steady lifestyle with his wife. Recently, they have welcomed a new baby girl.

            “I love walking on the streets of Memphis and not thinking that I will be recognized,” Ahmet said. “I really don’t like New York because it is too big and crowded, but I do love Boston.”

            Every Tuesday and Thursday, Ahmet travels from his home in Memphis to Oxford where he serves as Croft Associate Professor of Anthropology and International Studies.

            “Ahmet is a cheerful, congenial colleague,” said Edward Sisson, Associate Professor of Anthropology. “He is a very productive scholar whose many publications have enhanced the reputation of our department.”

            Sisson says the University is lucky to have a scholar like Ahmet available.”

“Ahmet as his research interests are very significant for the understanding of contemporary Europe,” Sisson said. “Ahmet devotes considerable time and effort to the support of his students, especially those working on their theses.”

            Ahmet is also a greatly appreciated by his students. He teaches several classes of all course levels.

            “Taking Anthropology 101 was very interesting, especially with Professor Yukleyen as my teacher,” said Katherine Henson, freshman. “Very few classes are as intriguing to listen to as my anthropology class was.”

            Overall, Ahmet has lived a far more interesting life than most his age. As for the future, he says anything can happen.

            “Who knows where my future travels and researching will lead me,” Ahmet said. “All doors are open.”