“The positive atmosphere is truly contagious.”

Selin Saka has been supporting the Human Resources Office of the University of Bern in the domain of staff recruitment and development since May 1st, 2025. In this interview, Selin Saka shares what made her choose to work for the University of Bern, what her workday looks like and what her wishes for the future are.

A young woman in the entrance area.
Photo: Dres Hubacher

Interview with Selin Saka, Administrative Assistant, Course Administration and Leadership Support

Since when have you been working for the University of Bern, and in which position?  
I have been working in the Human Resources Office since May 1st, 2025, and am responsible for course administration. I also support the HR management team.  

What made you want to work for the University of Bern?
The University of Bern enjoys an excellent reputation as an employer. I have always been impressed by how the university supports and fosters the development of students and employees alike. I had also heard a lot of positive things about the work culture, which was ultimately the deciding factor for me.

If you were to describe the work culture at the University of Bern as an object – what would that object be?
I would choose a pen. To me, a pen embodies communication, interaction and collaborative creation. As part of the university’s Human Resources Office team, I work with different people on a daily basis, fostering connections, supporting and being actively involved. A pen stands for this active involvement – and for a work culture that thrives on working and shaping things together.

How can you contribute to the University of Bern?
In my position, I am responsible for course administration as well as for the organization of training and development programs for employees. I make sure that everything runs smoothly – from scheduling to supporting lecturers and management. In my work, it is particularly important to me to be of support where knowledge is shared and networks are built which ultimately benefit everyone.

Do you already have specific ideas for your own professional growth at the university?
Since I’m still quite new, I’m taking things as they come for now. I can see myself assuming more responsibility as I gain more experience, or specializing in a certain area.   

What do you like most about your job?
Most definitely the team! The team has been so welcoming to me, from day one. My work colleagues are always helpful, and the positive atmosphere makes it such an enjoyable place to work. It feels great to be a part of such a motivated and open-minded team.