BY ADA KILIÇARSLAN (ECON/IV)
Name: Balázs Bárány
Department: Economics
Country of Origin: Hungary
What do you like best about Turkey?
The people, the food, and an insanely rich history and culture.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
Absolutely! Both in terms of shared vocabulary and historic origins as well as a general approach to life.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
Hospitality and genuine kindness. Also çay.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
The grass area stretching from Dorm 76 to the bus stop, simply because it’s usually sunny and has great vibes.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
İskender kebap and different types of balık. Also sweets; I’m a huge fan of lokum and kestane şekeri, for example. I seriously think Turkey has the best food on Earth!
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Tough question. Hopefully at a place where I’ll be able to do something meaningful.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
I can’t point to anything specific; it’s only been a month so far.
What cities have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
Bursa, Göreme (Cappadocia region) and, obviously, Ankara. I can’t really pick just one since all three were fantastic experiences.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently about Bilkent/Turkey?
My friends who know I’m in Turkey usually ask me about the sea and the beaches.