HOW DID I BECOME AN ASSISTANT CUSTOMS CONSULTANT?

Serkan KARACA
UGM LEGISLATION EXPERT

Many of my colleagues are uncomfortable with being called "customs agent," "broker," or "follower." It has been 16 years since I entered the customs community. I have already gotten used to the involuntary, meaningful smile on their faces when I answer "customs officer" to those who ask about my profession. I love this profession, which does not make me feel like a "civil servant" and keeps my mind alive.

As someone who has been immersed in the customs community for a long time, I know very well that anyone who is open to learning, curious, has the ability to interpret, and has a little predisposition can be very successful in this sector, whether they have a qualification certificate or not. 

The customs brokerage profession is a critical part of foreign trade—we cannot deny this. But we must also remember that, at the end of the day, we are not saving lives!

OVER-EMPHASIZING WHAT YOU DO...

The reflection of over-emphasizing the work they do sometimes manifests itself in the form of a sweet resentment. For example, many of my colleagues are uncomfortable with being called "customs officer," "broker," or "follower."The work we do includes these concepts in terms of their word meanings. There is nothing to be offended or angry about. The job is already stressful, so being a little more relaxed would be helpful. I liken this situation to our high government officials being uncomfortable with the word "Türkiye." However, if we were more at peace with ourselves, we could turn this situation into a great opportunity and become the world's largest turkey exporter. Let me come up with a slogan: "Türkiye from Türkiye."

WORKING WITH JOY AND LEARNING...

Well, how did I become an assistant customs broker? By passing the exam, the measurement of which is highly controversial and overrated. This success has not led to a significant leap in my career, which has been bumpy from time to time but has progressed steadily. I don't expect to be invited to Nilay Örnek's excellent podcast series How to Become a Customs Broker. Working with pleasure and learning is enough for now.

I LOVE THIS PROFESSION...

It has been 16 years since I stepped into the customs community. When I answer "customs officer" to those who ask me about my profession, I have already gotten used to the involuntary meaningful smile on their faces. I love this profession that does not make me feel like a "civil servant" and keeps my mind alive. Now, the target is the 2026 Customs Brokerage Exam.