BY EHSAN SHAREEF (CTIS/II)
Name: Nurmukhammed Tolegenov
Department: ECON/III
University: Bilkent
Country of Origin: Kazakhstan
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
First, that it’s a very interesting country that combines both West and East cultures. You can see it everywhere, from cafeterias to historical monuments. Also, I found that Turkish people are very patriotic because flags are everywhere.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
I love Bilkent for the emotions and opportunities. Studying here is not easy, but afterwards that work will open something new for you.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
There are a lot of mutual things between Kazakhstan and Türkiye as we are both Turkic countries. Moreover, we have similarities in language, culture, tradition and history.
What will you miss most about Bilkent and Türkiye?
I would probably say that I will miss my lifestyle here because Bilkent is the place where I started my adult life. It’s the place where I first experienced joy, sadness, disappointment, critical thinking, diplomacy and life.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
It’s 76 grass area and the closest place to dorm. Actually, there are a lot of places where I enjoy spending my time but they are very far away from the dorm.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
I’m going with Beyti kebab in this question because I don’t really like dürüms here and some kinds of food here are similar to Kazakhstani food.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Hopefully, I am one of the best financial planners in Kazakhstan, driving my Lx570 with my wife and kids waiting for me at home.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
The most important thing I’ve learned is to not rush and be patient.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve been almost everywhere in Türkiye, and I would say İzmir and Amasra are my favorites.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
The most frequently asked question I get is whether I am Chinese. Of course I am not.
Describe yourself in three words.
Straightforward, calm, fisherman.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
The studying experience in Bilkent is different compared to other universities. At the same time, it makes you feel depressed but fortunately at the end you will get good results. We are students, we have to suffer, and it makes me feel alive.
