BY MAHİR HASSAN MİAN (ECON/I)
Name: Lea Dupeyron
Department: Management
Country of Origin: France
What do you like best about Turkey?
The Turkish hospitality. They told me Turkish people are nice and welcoming, and it is totally true! I’ve met so many amazing people from all around the country, very friendly and helpful.
Are there any similarities between Turkey and your home country?
Some Turkish and French words are similar in pronunciation, even if the writing is totally different. Culturally, there are a lot of differences. The Turkish countryside landscapes look a lot like my hometown ones, in the Basque country. It’s very green, and you can see cows and lambs; I really love it.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Turkey?
I will miss my student life on campus, because I am graduating this year, and also my friends that I have made. Also, I will probably miss some dishes, like gözleme: there is nothing similar in France, unfortunately.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
My favorite place on campus is the hill in front of Bilka. When it’s sunny I lie down there, listen to some music and have a nap. It’s very calm and refreshing! And the view of Ankara is amazing.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and/or favorite part of Turkish culture?
My favorite dish is kuymak, for sure. Also I love Turkish movies. The Büyülü Fener cinema in Kızılay screens amazing films.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
I hope to be working in the film industry in France.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve handled in Turkey?
Living far away from my friends, my family and my lover. The midterm period is also harsh!
What places have you visited in Turkey, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve visited several places in Turkey. The eastern part is amazing. The nature is mesmerizing and the people are very friendly. The history of the place is also very rich.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Turkey?
People usually ask me why I chose Turkey for my exchange year destination.
Describe yourself in three words.
Creative, adventurous, friendly
