BY NAUSHERWAN AZIZ (MAN/III)
Name: Mokhlaroyim Raupova
Department: CS/I
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
What do you like best about Turkey?
Well, Turkey is the country that I grew up in, so the best part of Turkey is the memories and friendships that I have here. Besides that, it’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world – no matter where I go, I always want to come back.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
Turkey and Uzbekistan are Turkic countries, so they do have some similarities. However, Uzbekistan was under the influence of Russia for a very long time, while Turkey has become more European over time, so there are many cultural differences, but they are still very close due to Islamic and Turkic traditions.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
I think I’ll miss sitting at Spring Fest with friends.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
I like Main Bilka and the hill in front of it, because I already have many beautiful memories there, and the view is amazing at exactly six o’clock.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
My favorite food is probably sarma, followed by baklava, and my favorite part of the culture is definitely halay.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Starting my own company or traveling the world as an independent woman.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
Probably prejudice and resentment in high school. People weren’t happy with the fact that I was going to get into university through a much easier exam.
What cities have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve visited İstanbul, İzmir, Denizli, Bodrum and Antalya. My favorite is the legendary İzmir.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I see myself as an interesting person without any talents, but I’m good at cooking.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently about Bilkent/Turkey?
There’s a term “Bilkent bebesi,” which means a cool, rich person with a fancy car.
Describe yourself in three words.
Ambitious, daydreamer, determined.
If you could master any skill, which one would you choose?
I would want to be able to learn every single language on this earth, because every additional language opens a new world and makes me able to see the world from another perspective.