BY AMNA KARA (MAN/II)
Name: Laura Meijer
Department: International Relations/Erasmus
Country of Origin: Netherlands
What do you like best about Turkey?
I think it’s difficult to mention just one thing. It’s more the combination of a number of things—maybe the ambience, nice people, good food.
Are there any similarities between your country’s culture and that of Turkey?
Hmm, I think there are definitely similarities—but it’s hard to point out exactly what they are. Maybe the love of cheese?
What will you miss most about Turkey/Bilkent?
The people, the food and the feeling of learning something new every day just by talking to people.
What is your favorite place on campus, and why?
I really like the green hill in front of Dorm 76, just because I imagine it will be very nice there when the sun finally shines every day, and also because the view from there is very nice.
Why Turkey?
I had already been to Ankara twice, and I really liked it (yes, even though it’s not the most beautiful city). I wanted to see my friends again, study some subjects related to the Middle East and learn Turkish, so that made the choice of Turkey easy.
What’s your favorite Turkish food?
Çig köfte!
Where do expect to see yourself in 10 years?
Either working for a human rights-related organization, or having my own neighborhood restaurant. Or both. And I wish to live in a sustainable community together with the family that I will hopefully have by then.
What is the hardest challenge you’ve overcome in Turkey?
Finding vegan food. It was definitely not impossible, though.
What cities have you visited in Turkey? Which one do you like the best?
İstanbul, İzmir and Selçuk. I liked İzmir the most: very sunny people, a lot of green, many little streets.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Not that I know of, but maybe they are hidden from me as well.
What is one question you’re asked frequently or the most interesting comment you’ve heard at Bilkent/in Turkey?
“You’re vegan? How do you survive in Turkey?”