Tics couldn’t stop Bilge Övünç, she never gave up on music and graduated

At the 2026 Graduation Ceremony of the School of Fine Arts, Design and Architecture at Istanbul Medipol University, Bilge Övünç, who graduated from the Turkish Music Major Art Program, shared her experiences of living with Tourette syndrome, a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by involuntary motor and vocal tics, and reflected on both her educational journey and the transformative role that music has played in her life.

Övünç explained that music had been part of her life since childhood. During the period when she was preparing for Türkiye's Higher Education Institutions Examination (YKS), she believed that the difficulties she was experiencing would prevent her from gaining admission to a university program. Having developed a foundation in violin during her secondary education, she hoped to continue advancing her musical training. However, she noted that the medication she used while preparing for the university entrance examination caused her tics to intensify, leaving her uncertain about how to move forward.

She said that her decision to pursue Turkish music was shaped both by her love of music and by its ability to help her manage her tics.

"The reason I chose Turkish music was my love for music and its ability to help me focus despite my tics."
 

MUSIC HELPED HER HOLD ON TO LIFE
Övünç stated that she completed her four-year undergraduate education in five years. She explained that the stress associated with commuting to the University, examinations, and everyday life occasionally caused her tics to become more severe.

She recalled that, particularly during her second and third years, she seriously considered leaving the University. However, with the patience and encouragement of her family and the support of her instructors, she was able to overcome those difficult periods.

"Thanks to my family's dedication and patience, and with the support of my instructors, I was able to overcome these challenges many times. I often thought about leaving school, but my instructors' encouragement helped me overcome those thoughts again and again."

Emphasizing that she never gave up despite the obstacles she encountered, Övünç said that reaching graduation was deeply meaningful to her. Regardless of illness or life's challenges, she believes perseverance is essential.

"You should never give up the struggle. You need dedication, patience, and the determination to get back up alongside your tics."
 

HER GOAL IS TO REACH CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS THROUGH MUSIC
After completing her undergraduate education, Övünç said that she hopes to continue her career in music. She explained that living with Tourette syndrome has given her a unique perspective and inspired her to provide music education to children with special needs. She also expressed her hope that her own life story would serve as a source of encouragement for others.

Reflecting on the lessons she has learned, Övünç said:

"If you fall, you have to get back up. That's what life has taught me. Whenever you experience hardship, I believe those difficulties have a purpose and a meaning."

RAISING AWARENESS THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA
Bilge Övünç has also chosen to share her experiences beyond her personal journey. Through her social media account, "tikolojik" she continues to raise awareness about living with Tourette syndrome by sharing her daily experiences and the challenges she encounters through a humorous and engaging approach.

LIVING WITH TICS: TOURETTE SYNDROME 
Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by sudden, repetitive, and involuntary movements or vocalizations that are difficult to control. These symptoms, known as tics, may include blinking, shoulder shrugging, head movements, throat clearing, or involuntary vocal sounds.

Although the severity of symptoms varies from person to person, tics are known to become more pronounced during periods of stress, anxiety, or intense emotional experiences. For this reason, raising public awareness, providing supportive environments, and ensuring appropriate guidance are essential to enabling individuals living with Tourette syndrome to continue their education and participate fully in social life.