BY NAUSHERWAN AZIZ (MAN/II)
Name: Migena Gançi
Department: Molecular Biology and Genetics/II
Country of Origin: Albania
What do you like best about Turkey?
Turkey is such a warm and welcoming country, incredibly rich in things to see and do as well. For me it’s one of the world’s most culturally interesting and diverse places, with a distinctive, vivid history.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
There are some similarities between Turkey and Albania because of our common history: that is, some words that we have in common, particular foods and also some aspects of the culture. Still, in the end, the two nationalities are quite different despite the general stereotype.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
About Bilkent, I’ll certainly miss the campus and the atmosphere here, and also the many unforgettable moments with my friends and the amazing people I’ve met. As for Turkey, I think it will be one of my favorite destinations even in the future.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
As I have to choose one, I’ll have to say the grass area in front of Dorm 76. It’s a great spot to sit calmly and enjoy the stunning panoramic view of Ankara.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
Tavuk döner, pide and katmer are among my favorite foods. Regarding the culture, I really am surprised by the hospitality of Turkish people.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
I’ve never been a planner. Still, I suppose I’ll be somewhere abroad in the US or some European country, working in the field of microbiology research.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
Obviously, it’s very difficult to handle all your problems when you’re away from your family, especially as a young adult in a foreign country.
What cities have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
İstanbul, Bodrum, Amasra, Safranbolu, Ereğli, Gölcük, Bolu and Kastamonu are some of the many places I’ve visited in Turkey. As my favorite, I’d pick İstanbul. No matter how many times you’ve visited it, there’s something new to explore every time you return.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I really enjoy crafting. I’ve been keen on it ever since I was a little child, and would always come up with imaginative ways of creating things.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Turkey?
“How come you learned Turkish so fast?” People here seem to be surprised whenever a foreigner speaks their language.
Describe yourself in three words.
Not an easy task; I would say amiable, pragmatic and optimistic.
If you could master any skill, which one would you choose, and why?
I’d like to pick up the skill of public speaking. It’s something that I really need to master in my profession, as I barely made it through one of my project presentations without hyperventilating. I’d absolutely love to be able to get up in front of an audience and draw them in.