BY ADA KILIÇARSLAN (ECON/IV)
Name: Muhammad Adil
Department: Management
Country of Origin: Pakistan
What do you like best about Turkey?
I think Turkey is very diverse, with each city having its own vibe. I really like the hospitality along with the vast experiences this country has to offer!
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
There are a lot! For starters, we absolutely adore çay! It’s a cultural drink that brings us all together. Similarly, there are some customs and cultural activities I can relate to, for example celebrating festivities with great energy, a collective spirit and happiness.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
Honestly, I think I’ll miss everything – from the freezing walks to Marmara to chilling at Bilka with all my friends. From traveling to new locations on the weekends to going on late night walks to the East Campus, everything has been an experience of its own, and I’ll cherish each one of them.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
It has to be the hill area – just sitting there at night, watching the city lights and gazing at the stars while having çay and listening to music is very soothing and peaceful.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
The wide variety of kebabs have to be my favorites, especially because they’re spicy (haha). I really enjoy Turkish dance as well.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
I currently have a small startup where I make scented candles with my friend; I hope I can grow it and make it a big thing one day!
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
Well, this is going to be funny, but I’ve lost my wallet twice! It had all my important cards as well as my passport, which made me very anxious. I eventually got it back, both times! But I learned that I need to be more careful about my belongings!
What cities have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
So far I’ve been to Kaş, Cappadocia, Eskişehir, Antalya, Denizli, Pamukkale and İstanbul. It’s hard to choose a single favorite among them because each of them was a unique experience. But I really enjoyed Cappadocia and Antalya; most people remember Cappadocia because of the hot-air balloon ride, but I really enjoyed the ATV, and Land of Legends in Antalya was amazing.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Turkey?
Well, since I’ve traveled a lot – people ask where I come from. After telling them I’m a student from Bilkent, I get an appreciative smile, which makes me realize how valued Bilkent is all around the country.
Describe yourself in three words.
Motivated, fun and impulsive.