Berra Eylül Toprak’s educational journey, which began as the daughter of a hazelnut-harvesting family in Trabzon, now extends to the Bioengineering undergraduate program at UC Berkeley.
Through her family’s sacrifices, her own determination, and a full-scholarship education, Berra has taken important steps in science, technology, and entrepreneurship. She aims to develop AI-supported biosensors and accessible diagnostic technologies to create solutions for global public health challenges.
In this short video, Berra Eylül Toprak shares her educational journey, her goal of studying at UC Berkeley, and her vision for developing accessible diagnostic technologies in the future.
Her story represents a journey shaped by family effort, full-scholarship education, scientific curiosity, and a strong desire to create social impact.
“This support will not merely cover one student’s school expenses; it will light the way for a young scientist who works day and night to develop solutions in the fields of public health and bioengineering.”
Berra Eylül Toprak continued her education at SEV American College on a full scholarship and is graduating this year. Thanks to her interest in science and research, she carried out work in the field of genetics at a young age and had the opportunity to present a genetics research project at the University of Cambridge.
Today, at the age of 18, Berra stands out not only for her academic achievements, but also for her entrepreneurial perspective. Through her initiative focused on AI-supported biosensors, she works on fast, accessible, and effective diagnostic technologies.
According to the information shared by Berra, throughout high school she measured academic success not only by grades, but also by the value and social benefit she created. Her work in science, technology, sustainability, and public health makes her journey to UC Berkeley even more meaningful.
Academic Achievement
She completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program with a perfect score of 45/45 and was admitted to UC Berkeley’s undergraduate Bioengineering program.
Scientific Research
Through her research work in genomics, she had the opportunity to represent Turkey at the University of Cambridge.
Social Impact and Innovation
She carried out work in sustainability through a device she designed and patented to help protect marine life from plastic waste.
Youth Leadership
She serves as the Marmara Region representative on the UNICEF Youth Leadership Council, where she works on public health-focused initiatives.
Berra’s goal is to study in some of the world’s leading laboratories, develop innovative solutions in bioengineering and public health, and contribute to her country with the knowledge and experience she gains.
Berra has been admitted to UC Berkeley. However, in order to begin her education, the financial commitment required for her first year must be completed. This support will not only enable Berra to start her university education, but will also help her build a stronger foundation for her vision in science, technology, and entrepreneurship.
As Yücel Cultural Foundation, we care deeply about enabling young people to access equal opportunities in their educational journeys. Berra’s story is a powerful example of how timely support can create a major transformation in a young person’s life.
Donations made within the scope of this campaign will directly contribute to Berra’s educational journey at UC Berkeley. By supporting her with any amount you choose, you can help Berra move one step closer to her goals focused on science, technology, and social impact.
This support will not only help open the door to a university education; it will also contribute to the journey of a determined young woman who aims to develop accessible diagnostic technologies and create solutions for global public health challenges.
Goal: To complete the first-year educational support required for Berra Eylül Toprak to begin the Bioengineering undergraduate program at UC Berkeley.
Priority date: The financial commitment process to be submitted to the school is aimed to be completed by July 14, 2026.
Donations are processed in Turkish lira (TRY). There is no minimum donation amount for contributions made within the scope of Support a Dream.
You can make a donation to support Berra Eylül Toprak’s dream.
Every contribution you make will become an important step in Berra’s educational journey.
Note: Donations collected through this page are followed by Yücel Cultural Foundation to be used for Berra Eylül Toprak’s educational expenses. For donations made within this scope, 1% is allocated to cover expenses arising from payment infrastructure, bank/transaction commissions, and transfer processes; the remaining amount is used in line with Berra Eylül Toprak’s educational goal.