MCC Daily Tribune

MCC Proud: Meet Melis Kural

Melis Kural is the Coordinator for the Teaching and Creativity Center at Monroe Community College (MCC), providing pedagogical training and workshops for faculty and professional staff, particularly in areas related to student and faculty support. Kural joined the College in November 2023.

Kural was born in Australia and raised in Turkey, an experience that has played a significant role in shaping her identity.

She later graduated from SUNY Geneseo with degrees in sociology and business studies. As an undergraduate, Kural began tutoring French and discovered a passion for teaching. “That experience inspired me to pursue my master’s and PhD in Sociology at the University at Buffalo,” she said. Her specialties are in urban and regional sociology, with a focus on urban redevelopment and gentrification.

“I always tell my students not to plan every detail, because life can take you anywhere — and that’s definitely true for me,” said Kural.

She followed a traditional path for a while, completing her dissertation, graduating, and becoming an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Keuka College. After the pandemic, her department closed, and Kural transitioned into a program coordinator role in the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. “I loved developing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice (DEISJ) curriculum for faculty and staff, but I missed teaching and working on the academic side,” she said.

When she saw the faculty development position at MCC, it felt like the perfect fit! “I’m a lifelong learner, and I really enjoy being a coordinator for the Teaching and Creativity Center,” she said.

In fact, Kural noted, “MCC keeps me excited every day and brings different adventures. I don’t have one specific moment that stands out yet — the whole experience has been memorable.”

When asked what advice she would give current or prospective MCC students, Kural said, “The sky is the limit. Don’t be afraid to dream and allow yourself to dream big. As an international graduate, I understand feeling self-doubt or like you don’t belong. Trust me — life is full of possibilities. MCC professors and staff truly care about you, your success, and your growth. College goes fast, so find your passion and your community.”

Outside of MCC, Kural enjoys going to the Henrietta Recreation Center and taking Pilates and strength-based classes.

Fun Questions About Melis

Courtney: If you had to eat the same meal at least once a day, what would it be?
Melis: I would go with my Turkish roots. Börek — a fluffy pastry common in Turkey and the Balkans — is always a good choice. You can have it with spinach, minced beef, or potatoes. Minced beef is my favorite. And I can never go wrong with my mom’s meatballs.
Courtney: What is your favorite movie?
Melis: Bridesmaids. It’s such a fun movie, and it made me laugh a lot during wedding planning.
Courtney: What is your favorite sports team?
Melis: I like watching football in a global context (soccer, as many Americans call it!). My favorite team is Galatasaray.
Courtney: What is your biggest fear?
Melis: I’m scared of heights.
Courtney: Is there anything about you that people are surprised to learn?
Melis: I did ballet for almost five years. School became very demanding, and I had to quit.
Courtney: If you could attend a dinner with any celebrity, living or dead, who would you choose?
Melis: I listen to Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast and love the focus on female friendship and joy — something we all need. I would love to have a fun dinner with Maya Rudolph, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler.
Courtney: Do you prefer staying up late or waking up early?
Melis: I’m definitely a night person. I would much rather stay up late.
Courtney: Share the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you.
Melis: Life is full of possibilities. Don’t try to control your entire path — trust your life. That is my sweet sister.
Courtney: What destination do you hope to visit one day?
Melis: So many places! I really enjoy traveling with my dad. I would like to travel to Prague, Japan, Australia, India, and Singapore. I love history and cultures. We should all travel more and learn from one another.
Courtney: What activities do you participate in over the weekend?
Melis: I usually enjoy going to a coffee shop or a brewery with my husband and just talking. Oddly, I really enjoy grocery shopping — it’s a nice way to plan meals for the week.
Courtney: Anything else you’d like to share?
Melis: I met my sweet husband in a wine bar in Penn Yan. He’s a brewer, so we work in very different industries — it balances our relationship well. It’s always fun to compare our workdays!

Image Caption: Melis Kural smiling at the camera with a tray of food in front of her.

Attached Files:
Melis Kural.jpg

Courtney Weimar
Community Relations
05/13/2026