BY ADA KILIÇARSLAN (ECON/IV)
Name: Yuri Oriente
Department: Economics (but I’m wondering if it’s become Math over the years)
Country of Origin: Italy
What do you like best about Turkey?
Well, it’s hard to do a ranking! The meat here is stunning, I’ve met welcoming people everywhere, and the history of this country is palpable in each of its corners…but if I had to pick one, I would go for the colors of the landscapes.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
Actually a lot! The most evident is that we both use our hands a lot to talk. When I was on my flight coming here for the first time, I was seated next to a Turkish guy. Believe it or not, we managed to have a small, silent conversation.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
I’ve been staying here for five months, and I’ll stay four more; I’ve made some good friends, and we’ve shared some unforgettable moments. They are what I’ll miss the most. (Of course there’s no need to mention the breakfast at Çatı and my miserable attempts to speak Turkish!)
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
There are many, but Bilka has something more. I’ve got memories of being there in so many different moods that it’s home to me now.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
I love that there are so many different words to express different shades of meaning. For the food, I have a proper list, but right now I’ll just pick İskender.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
As an economist for the European Central Bank, still far away from what I’ll want to achieve, but grateful for the journey (inşallah)!
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
Learning enough basic Turkish to survive on a solo trip.
What places have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, Adana, Pamukkale and Bolu. Şanlıurfa wins so far; the vibes on the street were breathtaking.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Turkey?
“Why did you choose Turkey?”
Describe yourself in three words.
Passionate, resourceful, dreamy.