BY MAHİR HASSAN MİAN (ECON/III)
Name: Miriam van Amerongen
Department: MBG
Country of Origin: Germany
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
Türkiye is a beautiful country! At the beginning of my exchange, I was surrounded by kind, friendly and helpful people. They made me feel like it was a “second home.”
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
The best part of Bilkent is the vibrant campus life! Coming from a university without a traditional campus experience, this was entirely new to me. I truly appreciate how easy it is to meet up with friends within minutes and spend quality time together. Another highlight for me was the wide variety of sports and activities available, making the experience even more enjoyable!
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
Fun fact, we have the same trains.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
Definitely the wonderful friends that I made here! Besides that, I’ll also miss the delicious food and the wide variety of sports activities available.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
Cafe Fiero, Çatı and the gym.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
My favorite Turkish food is definitely Beyti! It’s one of the most delicious dishes I’ve ever had.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Hopefully working as a doctor in a great city, surrounded by family and friends.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
One thing I’ve learned from Turkish culture is to stay calm and relaxed when things don’t go as planned.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
I wish I had more time to explore, but I’ve visited Alanya, Konya, Cappadocia and İstanbul. My favorite place by far was Cappadocia — its unique landscapes and magical atmosphere left a lasting impression on me (greetings to Premching, Lemanching, Kim, Jane, Franzi, Thomas, Marius and Michael).
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
Why did you come to Bilkent?!
Describe yourself in three words.
Energetic, caring, competitive.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
I had great teachers from whom I could learn a lot and ask questions anytime.
