BY MAHİR HASSAN MİAN (ECON/III)
Name: Aysu Mehdiyeva
Department: Information Systems and Technologies
Country of Origin: Azerbaijan
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
When I arrived months ago, my first impression was that the campus was large and green, with kind people and many cats.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
What I appreciate most is the well-structured yet challenging education system and the supportive guidance from our instructors.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
Yes. Türkiye and Azerbaijan are united by a common language, rich cultural traditions and a deep connection shaped by their shared history and values.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
The vibrant campus life at Bilkent, filled with endless opportunities for socializing, learning and creating lasting memories—like the nights spent with my friends in the kitchen of the dorm—is what I’ll miss the most.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
My favorite place on campus is Bilka, near the dorm. It’s where my friends and I always meet to relax and enjoy each other’s company, making it a place full of great memories.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
Kebabs, especially Adana Kebab, are my favorite because of their delicious grilled flavor, tender meat and the perfect mix of spices that make every bite so tasty.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I see myself in a big company that my siblings and I will create. I also hope to be working as a software engineer in a great business, contributing to innovative projects.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
One thing I’ve learned from Turkish culture is the tradition of the incredible hospitality. In Türkiye, guests are treated like family, and it’s this warmth that makes you feel instantly at home.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve visited İstanbul, but I like Ankara the most. It’s more peaceful and offers a better environment for university life, making it ideal for focusing on studies and personal growth.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
When people find out I’m from Azerbaijan, they often ask, “How can you speak both Turkish and Russian?” It’s always interesting to explain that in Azerbaijan, many people grow up bilingual or even trilingual, as Turkish and Azerbaijani are closely related languages, and Russian is widely taught and spoken due to historical and regional ties.
Describe yourself in three words.
Understanding, kind, loyal.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
Studying at Bilkent is definitely a great experience. It’s challenging but also rewarding, and you get personalized attention from professors. The campus is lively, and there are plenty of activities to keep things fun outside of classes.
