BY AMNA KARA (MAN/III)
Name: Reem Abbas
Department: ELIT/I
Country of Origin: Yemen
What do you like best about Turkey?
The weather and the scenery. Fall was absolutely beautiful here, and winter is a whole new experience!
Are there any similarities between your country’s culture and Turkey’s?
Yeah, I guess the food is pretty similar in some ways.
What will you miss most about Turkey/Bilkent?
Well, I’ll miss the amazing friends I’ve made and professors I’ve met, but most of all I think I’ll miss Bilkent’s captivating greenery.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
The library, because of the books (and some occasional sleep).
Why Turkey?
I went wherever the wind blew me.
What’s your favorite Turkish food/favorite part of Turkish culture?
Although I didn’t like it before, I think İskender is growing on me.
Where do expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Hopefully in a room, typing my latest novel!
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve overcome in Turkey?
The language barrier, I guess. Everyone seems nice, but Turkish people hardly ever try to communicate with us “yabancılar.”
What cities have you visited in Turkey? Which one do you like the best?
Besides Ankara? I’ve visited Istanbul for a day, so I guess I’m sticking with Ankara.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Not that I’m aware of (hence hidden).
What’s a question you’re asked frequently, or the most interesting comment you’ve heard at Bilkent/in Turkey?
“English language and literature? You must have it SO easy, right?” to which the answer would commonly be a punch in the arm (a strong one).