BY ADA KILIÇARSLAN (ECON/IV)
Name: Hamza Abdulla
Department: English Language and Literature
Country of Origin: Pakistan
What do you like best about Turkey?
When I first landed in Turkey, I had a really tough time integrating into society, but slowly but surely I made a few friends and learned how to function as a student at Bilkent. Because of the university’s amazing student outreach programs, I’ve felt comfortable and happy in Turkey since I started studying here. The international community has enough light shined on it, but it’s the Turkish students at Bilkent who have helped me realize what a beautiful and culturally immersed country Turkey is.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
There aren’t many similarities, because home has always been so different in comparison to Turkey. Turkey offers a freer atmosphere with more opportunities, whereas at home there are severe limitations to a person’s growth.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
The people – I find them so helpful and friendly. I’ll also miss the smoke-free campus, as it made me very proud to see Bilkent taking the right steps.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
The path to the yemekhane, because the view of the campus and the surrounding areas is beautiful. Sometimes when I’m walking to the cafeteria, I sit down beside the sidewalk and enjoy the view.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
My favorite food is definitely İskender, because I like the butter they pour on top of it and how it soaks into the bread.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
In 10 years I think I’ll still be figuring out how to be happy, hopefully in Canada. Maybe as a teacher or an academic of sorts.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
The language barrier – adjusting and learning the language took a lot of time, but it’s been well worth the effort.
What places have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve never left Ankara because of COVID. I hope to explore more.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Turkey?
A lot of people ask how beautiful the campus is, but honestly between the East Campus and the Main Campus there are no words that can describe its beauty.
Describe yourself in three words.
Egotistical, creative and sarcastic.