BY MAHİR HASSAN MİAN (ECON/III)
Name: Saida Rustamova
Department: CTIS junior student
Country of Origin: Tajikistan/Uzbekistan
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
I was really impressed by people’s patriotism and love for Atatürk. Also, how caring they are towards animals is amazing.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
Bilkent feels like its own little city, away from Ankara’s chaos and traffic. As for Türkiye, I love the cats, the food, the sea and the mountains.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
There are definitely a lot of similarities, especially in terms of hospitality and culture.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
My friends…Oh! And the new fountain, obviously.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
The path between G and A buildings—it’s peaceful and a great spot to clear my mind.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
Tavuk dürüm döner. It’s just perfect.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
Traveling the world; exploring new places and cultures.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
Their love for cats and the way they use filler words like “oha” and “tamam.”
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve been to İstanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, İzmir, Çeşme, Fethiye, Antalya, Alanya, Bodrum, Eskişehir, Kuşadası, Kayseri, Konya, Şirince and Nallıhan. İzmir and Çeşme are my favorites because of the warm memories with my family.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
“What’s your country’s exchange rate???” They’re usually trying to get a sense of the economy, which I find interesting.
Describe yourself in three words.
Honest, sweet toothed, hodophile.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
Studying at Bilkent is a unique experience. The campus offers a peaceful atmosphere, rigorous academics and supportive professors. It can be stressful at times, but the community and environment make it worthwhile.