The International Chronicles

Name: Sagda Elfadil Hassan Abdelhalim
Department: GRA/IV
Country of Origin: Sudan
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
I had my first impressions of Türkiye on registration day in 2021. I got off a flight and headed directly to Bilkent. On the way, I enjoyed the cool breeze, as it was a welcome change from the dry hot air I’m used to back home in Riyadh. I also got a very nice impression from the general public. Despite not knowing the language, the staff were nice and very accommodating. It was the first glimpse at Turkish hospitality for me, with more to come.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
The convenience of the campus and the country itself. I loved living on campus, where everything I need is a short walk away; off-campus, public transport has made my time here much easier.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
Sudan and Türkiye both have family-centred cultures and hospitality. Also, they have similar artistic scenes, focusing on textile art, as shown in Sudanese tobes and Turkish carpets, for example; relatedly, these textiles can be bought in a lively “suq” or “pazar.” Sudan and Türkiye also have rich literary histories.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
I will definitely miss everyone I’ve met so far. Once again, I will miss the ease of transport. I will also miss the availability of “third places,” shown in the abundance of cafés and parks here. Lastly, I will most definitely miss the weather.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
There’s a picnic bench in front of Meteksan. I enjoy solitude, and it’s a quiet place that I grew attached to in my first year.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
I love creamy desserts, so I really like fırında sütlaç.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
I don’t have set plans for the future at the moment. But I really hope that, in 10 years, I will be working an honest job in the illustration field that would direct me to opening a studio of some sorts. I also hope to have a family of my own by that time.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
Turkish culture has rich literary roots. Storytelling is a part of everyday speech, and I’ve been told idioms are even used casually; my favourite has been “Kedi buradaysa, ciğer nerede?” mainly for how funny it is. Their deep respect for literature has inspired me to learn more Arabic idioms and read more literature in both English and Arabic.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
Besides Ankara, I’ve been to İstanbul and Eskişehir. I love Eskişehir’s charm. I wish to visit more Turkish cities in the future.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
I’m often told that I don’t look like my ethnicity: I’ve gotten French, English and even Indian. I like hearing where people think I’m from, it’s fun!
Describe yourself in three words.
Creative, nostalgic, cheerful.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
At first, it does feel isolating, as sometimes you have no time to socialize because of the workload; however, once you find a rhythm and a balance between the social and work aspects, it becomes a fun and rewarding experience.