Obtaining scholarships to good schools is a tradition Bagce began years ago, when he landed a full-paid scholarship to the elite Delbarton School, in Morristown. Four years ago, NJIT continued the tradition by admitting him as a freshman to the Albert Dorman Honors College. Dorman Honors College students receive free tuition.

(ATTENTION EDITORS: Bagce will be available for interviews from 8:30 a.m.-noon on May 17 at the Arena.  Call Sheryl Weinstein prior to event at the office (973-596-3436) or at the event (974-650-6489) for photos or interview. High-resolution photos will be sent upon request.)

Bagce grew up the son of a Turkish immigrant. His dad worked most of his life as a mechanic repairing espresso and cappuccino machines. Bagce said the scholarship meant everything to him and his family.  Not only did the money help, but doing well in all pursuits fit the life pattern that mattered so much to the family. “My dad didn’t have a college education,” he said. “But hard work mattered.  It was this attitude that inspired me to do my best too.”

At NJIT, Bagce studied under Richard Foulds, PhD, a professor in the department of bio engineering. Among the research projects Bagce participated in was the development of a computerized sign language program for deaf people and the design of a rehabilitative chair simulating the up-and-down motion of a horse. Such movement reduces spasticity, or muscle tension, in children who have cerebral palsy. The chair is to be used in a hospital that rehabilitates children with cerebral palsy, brain and spinal-cord damage. Bagce now is helping to develop a knee brace to be filled with magnetic fluids. The fluids, when combined with electrical stimulation, will help patients who have bad knees regain strength and prevent further injury.

“Looking back on all I have learned at NJIT,” said Bagce. “I couldn’t see myself attending another school to have gained a better college experience.”