Damla Ozdemir, a graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), has established an English language school in her hometown of Hendek, Turkey. After earning her degree in English from FGCU in December 2024, Ozdemir partnered with her sister, Fatma Akin, to launch Dream Future Language Academy. The school is designed for students aged four and older and draws on teaching methods influenced by the American education system and Ozdemir’s experiences at FGCU.
“Beyond just providing English lessons, I aim to create a supportive learning community where students feel confident, curious and inspired,” said Ozdemir. “We emphasize cultural exchange, interactive learning and practical communication skills so that students not only learn a language but also gain tools to explore the world with confidence.
“Leading the school is both exciting and meaningful to me because it combines my passion for teaching with my long-term dream of creating opportunities for others through language education,” she added.
The academy’s first six-week session took place during the summer and received positive feedback from participants. According to Ozdemir, “This program demonstrates the strong demand for quality English language instruction in our community. Parents and students are particularly pleased with our American-style approach to language learning, and the recognition of a founder who graduated with honors from the United States is quite striking for my institution.”
Ozdemir noted that their educational approach focuses on communication skills, self-confidence, and real-life application rather than rote memorization. Students are encouraged to practice speaking English from their first day in class while being supported in making mistakes as part of their learning process.
“We also integrate cultural elements so that students experience English not just as a subject but as a bridge to understanding the world,” she said.
Ozdemir moved to the United States in 2021 with plans to study English and education before becoming an English teacher. She initially attended Florida SouthWestern State College before transferring to FGCU. Adjusting to life in America presented challenges such as culture shock related to classroom dynamics and social interactions; however, she valued meeting people from diverse backgrounds.
“Studying at FGCU not only strengthened my English and teaching skills but also taught me the value of adaptability, creativity and community engagement,” said Ozdemir. “I believe quality English education can open doors to higher studies, careers and international connections, and I want to help students in my community build those opportunities for their future.”
She chose FGCU after researching universities in Florida that offered strong programs in both English studies and education. “The balance between academic achievement and hands-on teaching experience was what appealed to me,” she explained.
Ozdemir described her time at FGCU’s Honors College as transformative both personally and professionally. Admission into this college requires rigorous academic performance along with personal qualifications; its programs focus on advanced scholarship, leadership development, community involvement, and cultural enrichment.
Tyler Fisher, dean of Honors College at FGCU stated: “Damla excelled in community-facing courses, such as the Honors section of University Colloquium. She exemplifies how our best students translate the mastery they acquire with their degree to real-world achievements, applying classroom theory to meet the practical needs they perceive around them. Damla soared to great heights right after graduation.”
“My time in the Honors College truly helped me grow both personally and professionally,” said Ozdemir. “It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, introduced me to inspiring professors and peers and gave me opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”
She credits her experience as an international student—and exposure at FGCU—with shaping her educational philosophy: focusing on interactive lessons that promote communication from day one while fostering leadership skills among staff members at Dream Future Language Academy.
“I think this combination of experience, vision and dedication is what sets our school apart and makes it an exciting place for students to grow,” said Ozdemir. “The values I developed at FGCU — intellectual curiosity, cultural awareness and a commitment to impactful learning — continue to shape the work I do every day as an educator and founder.”
