Hey all! I'm Batu. I'm a '26 from Istanbul, Turkey, and I am passionate about the cognitive science of design, developmental psychology, aesthetics research, postcolonial literature, and social media marketing! Be sure to reach out with questions about exploring the liberal arts, learning a new language at Dartmouth, cafes in town (one of my favorite blog series dare I say), study abroad programs, and research on campus!
Writing 5 is one of the courses that count towards the first-year writing requirement. The course covered content relating to the self, transformation, and social dynamics relating to majority and minority. Dr. Godley is simply phenomenal. Her instruction was extremely accessible even though she covered intense topics. I could not have enjoyed my Writing 5 more!
Design Thinking was above and beyond my expectations. The course is structured around weekly projects, where we apply different cognitive strategies to cover topics like design principles, human need-finding, brainstorming, scenario building, and visual thinking.
Introduction to Cognitive Science covers a variety of fields including psychology, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy to provide insight into cognitive processes. This course helped me develop an understanding of all facets of cognitive science and which ones I would be interested in further pursuing as part of my major.
SummerIstanbul, Turkey
I was home during my first summer! A non-exhaustive list of things I've done includes sunbathing, coding my personal blog, and going on runs. #rest #relaxation
Psychology 10 is a deep dive into almost everything you might need to become well-versed in conducting research, analyzing data, and interpreting findings in a statistically sound manner. Professor Pfister is the most approachable professor I have ever had the pleasure of learning from. Statistics isn't exactly my forté, but I now feel confident in my stats foundation!
I loved taking this class with Madame Alverde, a professor from Université Toulouse ; Jean Jaures was an incredible experience. She made sure to correct our mistakes on the spot and improve them eloquently.
This course allowed me to explore the intersection of aesthetics and digital media, focusing on how digital environments reshape traditional concepts like materiality and form. I particularly enjoyed comparing human and AI-generated analyses of art and examining the frameworks that shape contemporary digital studies, from visual culture to design philosophy.
SummerHanover, NH
I was on campus pursuing full-time research in the Cognitive Science department. My research focuses on children's capacity to imagine and reason about possibilities!
In the ongoing exploration of Hanover's diverse café scene, I stumbled upon a hidden gem that defies the conventional definition of a café—Red Kite Candy Store. Despite not serving coffee, Red Kite has carved its place in my "Exploring Cafés in Hanover" series for its unique charm and inviting atmosphere.
Situated on 5 South St., Red Kite is discreet, unlike the cafes that usually catch your eye along Main Street. It was Professor A'Ness, my Gender Studies course instructor during freshman fall, who first recommended this candy haven, and for that, I am grateful.
Red Kite is a candy lover's dream world. The unmistakable candy cane aesthetic, with red and white stripes adorning the interior architecture, sets the stage for a delightful experience. As you step inside, you are greeted by baskets overflowing with chocolates and candies. Three tables, each with four seats, invite patrons to sit down and savor the sweet ambiance. The owner informed me that during the summer, additional seating is available outside—an invitation I'm eager to accept, ready to romanticize over my sophomore summer.
Red Kite's Interior (oh so jolly!)
Now, let's talk about the heart and soul of Red Kite—the owner. In my recent visit to capture images for this blog (and to indulge in their irresistible ice cream because, why not?), I found myself engrossed in an hour and a half of genuine conversation with the owner. We delved into topics ranging from life to candy and the fascinating journey of how this local business evolved.
Red Kite's origin story is as sweet as their treats. It started in a kitchen near their home and gradually expanded into the charming store in Hanover, with a dedicated kitchen in Vermont. The owner generously offered to show me around the Vermont kitchen when I'm back in Hanover, a promise that has me eagerly anticipating my next visit.
Already a fan of Red Kite's fluffernutter chocolate bar—a delightful concoction of peanut butter, marshmallow, pecan, and Belgian chocolate—I decided to explore more. Their vanilla chocolate, a familiar favorite available at Dining Services locations for our late-night cravings, lived up to expectations. However, the real surprise came in the form of their maple ice cream with caramel and pecan—a delightful fusion that exceeded my taste buds' wildest dreams.
Red Kite chocolates!
In conclusion, Red Kite Candy Store has become my go-to place for unwinding and taking a delightful break from my studies. It may not fit the traditional café mold, but its inviting atmosphere, delectable treats, and the owner's warmth make it a must-visit. In my "Exploring Cafés in Hanover" series, Red Kite Candy Store stands out as a unique and sweet addition. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a delightful escape in the heart of Hanover.
In addition to blogging, I work as a Fellow for the Tucker Center, which focuses on promoting spiritual and ethical life on campus. As part of this role, I'm leading the Interfaith Alternative Spring Break Trip. Read on to learn more about my work!
