Erhan Raif and his brother, Korhan, were flipping through Barron's Collegiate Guide in their native island country of Cyprus decades ago, seeking an international student experience in the United States. Northern Michigan University's profile attracted their attention because of its academic programs and size, among other qualities. They decided to trade the Mediterranean for Lake Superior in the early 1980s and embarked on what Erhan calls “an American adventure I'll always be grateful for in Marquette.”
During a recent return trip to Michigan, the brothers reunited with four former housemates from Innsbruck House in Gant Hall: Scott DeKryger, Ray Hall, Mike Wasche and Greg O'Dell. The group has remained in touch for more than 45 years—a testament to the strong and enduring bonds of friendship that Northern nurtures.
The group gathered in Grand Rapids, where Scott hosted a backyard barbecue that felt less like a reunion and more like coming home, Erhan said. They spent the day reminiscing about dorm life in Gant Hall, flipping through old photos, and laughing over stories that had stood the test of time.
“We were all young and away from home for the first time, and that camaraderie created a special bond,” Erhan said. “The friendships built in those halls have endured through marriages, careers and even continents. We may live thousands of miles apart, but when we get together, it feels like no time has passed. It was wonderful to catch up and see how everyone's lives have evolved.”
Erhan has traveled back to the U.S. numerous times for reunions, and stays connected through social media between visits. He studied business management at NMU; Korhan chose biology, later switching to pre-med. The small campus setting and close-knit community provided exactly the kind of experience their family had hoped for when they departed Cyprus.
“From day one, everyone at Northern was incredibly welcoming and helpful,” Erhan said. “I was made to feel at home, which made it much easier to adapt to a new country.”
Adjusting to Michigan's harsh winters, however, was a different experience. Coming from the Mediterranean, Erhan experienced hot summers and warm winters. He was astonished to encounter the bitter cold and abundance of snow that Marquette provided. Instead of being frightened, Erhan made the most out of his time and quickly adapted to the conditions. He taught himself how to ski, both downhill and cross-country, as well as snowshoe, and became one of the few in his home country to engage in such activities.
After graduating in 1986, Erhan built a 37-year career in banking, living in Cyprus and now London. Korhan went on to become a physician in Illinois. Both credit NMU for setting the foundation for their success.
“The education and experience we gained at Northern prepared us not only professionally but personally,” Erhan said. “Those four years shaped who we are. The curriculum, the professors, the facilities—everything contributed positively to my education. I've often led change efforts in my organizations, and I believe my education at Northern played a key role in that.”
For Erhan, the latest reunion wasn't just a nostalgic visit; it was a reminder of the community Northern helped create. What began decades ago with a simple listing in Barron's Collegiate Guide turned into a lifelong adventure filled with snow-covered memories, professional success and friendships that have endured across time and distance.
“It's great to be a Wildcat,” Erhan said. “And even greater to still feel that connection after all these years.”
