BY MAHİR HASSAN MİAN (ECON/II)
Name: Scott Auerbach
Department: MBG
Country of Origin: United States of America
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
Well, I would say that my first impression of Ankara was how intense it is, everyone is in a rush. You can see how massive the city is just by looking out from this campus. Türkiye is a unique mix of European and Middle Eastern cultures. It blends them well, and on top of this it has thousands of years of cultural history.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
The people in Bilkent are very friendly and very hard working. They take their research very seriously. Also, the cats are a bonus. I like the food and the hospitality. The people are very welcoming, and when you try to speak Turkish they encourage you to do so. Hence, you are encouraged to learn the language.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
Well, my home state of California has similar geography. Apart from that, the cultures are very different, but you can see glimpses of American culture amongst young Turkish people.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
I’ll miss the people and cats at Bilkent. About Türkiye, I will miss the food as well as my wife’s family, as once I’m back home I won’t be able to spend time with them.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
My favorite place is probably Bilkent lake. The view there is nice and to walk by is very relaxing.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
Probably Urfa kebab. I like meat in general, but I think this dish has the right amount of spice in it to make it perfect.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Possible working in the industry with a job in bioinformatics.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
I would say being more hospitable as that is not emphasized as much in US culture.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve visited Urfa, Sinop, İstanbul and Alanya. My favorite was Urfa for the history, especially Göbeklitepe. Alanya was good for the beaches.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
Neyse. It means anyways. Also, kanka is very interesting. Kanka is short for blood brother, but it’s how people refer to their friends here.
Describe yourself in three words.
Quiet, patient, preserving
