BY MAHİR HASSAN MİAN (ECON/III)
Name: Leman El Aydin
Department: Molecular Biology and Genetics
Country of Origin: The Netherlands
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
Since I was born, I’ve been coming to Turkey every year, and my impression has always been the same: incredibly hospitable people, delicious food and beautiful landscapes.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
I love how Bilkent feels like its own little village with cats everywhere you go. Back home, we don’t have proper campuses, just scattered faculties all over the city, so being here, where everything is in one place, feels different but in a really nice way. And in Türkiye overall? The food, the culture and how you can go from historical ruins to stunning beaches in the same weekend, it’s unbeatable.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
Both countries have a deep love for bikes. In the Netherlands, we ride them everywhere, while in Türkiye, they mostly show up in seaside towns for Instagram pictures. Also, both cultures value hospitality. But while Dutch hospitality means offering you coffee, Turkish hospitality means offering you coffee, tea, baklava and possibly a three-course meal.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
The fact that everything on campus is within walking distance is a game-changer! Also, the food; Turkish cuisine is comfort food at its finest. Lastly, I’ll definitely miss the cats.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
I’d have to say where I grab lunch every Thursday with Cécile, J, Nahia and Nuria at Sözeri Büfe. They have free tea, which is already a win, but the highlight? The ketchup. Yes, the ketchup deserves its own shout-out.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
It depends on where I am and the season. In Bursa, it’s definitely İskender. During the summer, I can eat fish every single day. But my ultimate comfort food is lahmacun with salad rolled up inside.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Hopefully, in a hospital or clinical setting, doing my own research as well as surgeries.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
Sharing meals. In Türkiye, food is never just about eating; it’s about connection, family and friendship. I’ve also learned to slow down and appreciate the moment, especially during Turkish tea or Turkish coffee breaks. You can’t rush those, they’re practically sacred.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve been to İstanbul, Bursa, Ayvalık, Çeşme, Kuşadası, Marmaris, Kaş, Antalya, Kapadokya, Kars and, of course, Ankara. My favorite? I would have to say Ayvalık, Kapadokya and İstanbul.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
One question I’ve heard a lot is, “Did you pack enough for all four seasons?” Ankara’s weather has a reputation for being unpredictable, and honestly, it lives up to the hype. One day it’s sunny, and the next, you’re digging out your winter coat.
Describe yourself in three words.
Optimistic, balanced, spontaneous.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
It’s going great! The midterms and quizzes definitely keep me on my toes, but the quality of education, supportive professors and the campus vibe make it all worth it.
