BY YAREN SAĞLIK (TRIN/IV)
Name: Uswah Eeman
Department: Faculty of Engineering
Country of Origin: Pakistan
What do you like best about Turkey?
The thing I find the best about Turkey is that the Turkish culture involves being very sociable. Turkish people love to meet new people and learn about their cultures. They’re also really happy to help any strangers that they encounter. And of course the famous Turkish tea, which is served complimentary at some cafés.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
There aren’t many similarities between Turkey and Pakistan, except for the fact that they’re both fascinating countries rich in history and culture. Preservation of history and historic buildings is significant for both of them. Hence, you can find a lot of ancient sites as tourist attractions.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
I’ll definitely miss the weather here, which is mostly pleasant and windy. And also the way that all the cafés at Bilkent, including Starbucks, are easily accessible and available at all times.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
My favorite place on campus is absolutely the hills in front of Dorm 76. Sitting there with friends jamming on a cold breezy night, with a spectacular view of the city lights, makes it the most amazing place. It’s the perfect place to hang out and relax with friends.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
You can find kebab all over the world, but in Turkey kebabs are on a whole other level. I’ve eaten kebab in Pakistan, but nothing can beat the kebabs in Turkey.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
I see myself as a successful engineer working for a renowned company and gaining new abilities that will heighten my skills as an engineer. Along with that, I see myself as a person satisfied with her life.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
Besides the challenge of moving away from home, the hardest challenge would be the language barrier in Turkey. English isn’t commonly spoken here, which made it a bit hard.
What places have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
Apart from Ankara, I haven’t visited many places, since I’ve only been here for two months. I’ve been to İstanbul, and that’s a city that never sleeps. Moreover, a city divided between two continents offers many interesting sights with unique architecture. Aside from shopping, the Grand Bazaar is a fantastic place to just walk about, watch people and immerse yourself in Turkish culture.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently about Bilkent/Turkey?
The comment most frequently heard about Bilkent is that the courses are hard and they demand a lot of your time; otherwise, you won’t be able to cope. And that Bilkent has some pretty strict rules.
Describe yourself in three words.
Reliable, friendly, motivated.