BY ADA KILIÇARSLAN (ECON/IV)
Name: Bareera Nasir
Department: Management
Country of Origin: Pakistan
What do you like best about Turkey?
Coming from a city like Karachi, the thing I find best in Turkey is the relatively cold weather. Besides that, Turkey has enabled me to become more self-dependent and confident, which I’ll always cherish.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
Pakistan and Turkey both have very hospitable citizens. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming. As the two countries are collectivist societies, people in both like to bond over good food, and be festive and celebrate any chance they get!
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
Bilkent has been nothing less than home to me. I’ll always miss the comfort this place has provided me, ensuring that I’ve fulfilled my list of adventures. From catching sunrises to going out in the rain at 3 a.m., Bilkent has given me lifelong memories.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
My favorite place on campus has to be the grass area in front of Dorm 78. It’s always a calming place with the perfect city view. You can always find me there with a cup of çay and my favorite chocolate!
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
Adana kebab will always have my heart. As much as I love spicy food, Turkish food has taught me to eat healthier. Lokum is one of my favorite Turkish desserts that I’ll miss the most!
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
My 10-year goal includes expanding the management consultancy I’ve started back in Pakistan. Along with that, I hope to have traveled to my favorite destinations in the world, and to be happy and satisfied with whatever phase of life I’m in.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
Language has been the biggest barrier for me so far. Despite the fact Turks are very welcoming, language has stopped me from understanding the culture in a more comprehensive manner.
What places have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
In the last three months I’ve visited Cappadocia, İstanbul, Antalya, Denizli, Pamukkale and Eskişehir. My favorite place has to be Antalya because of the city’s vibe, the welcoming culture and the sea. Walking the streets of Kaleiçi and tasting different lokum will always be a favorite memory!
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Turkey?
It might be weird, but as I travel around, people naturally presume that I’m very smart because of the fact that I study at Bilkent. Secondly, everyone back in Pakistan assumes I live in İstanbul when I tell them I live in the capital city.
Describe yourself in three words.
Determined, confident and sensitive.