Name: İbrahim Akram
Department: PHYS/I
Country of Origin: Pakistan
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
Türkiye is insanely beautiful! When I first arrived, I went straight to İstanbul. I was completely overwhelmed by how much history is packed into every corner. It felt like home, like I was back in Lahore. The food, the history, the culture—they’re all very different from Pakistan, but somehow they gave off this similar, warm vibe that made me feel instantly comfortable.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
The campus is absolutely gorgeous. I walk from East Campus to Main Campus almost every day, and that walk never gets old. What I love most is how friendly and helpful everyone is here. Bilkent can never truly replace my home, but it genuinely feels like one.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
As I mentioned, İstanbul especially—but Türkiye in general—gives off a similar feeling to Pakistan. Both countries have deeply rooted cultures that have built up over centuries. Even though I’m in a completely new country that can never replace home, there’s this incredible hospitality in the air that makes me feel genuinely comfortable. What’s funny is that many of the sweets here remind me of Pakistani desserts. The flavors and textures are surprisingly similar, which always brings a smile to my face when I’m feeling a bit homesick.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
Without a doubt, it’ll be the friendships and connections I’ve made here. Bilkent is demanding and doesn’t leave time for socializing, but the people here are genuinely kind and friendly, so making friends has never been a problem. I can honestly say I’ve made some really good ones that I’ll treasure forever. I’ll also miss the sense of security here. The campus is a smoke-free, safe bubble where you can go out at any time—day or night—without worrying about your safety.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
This might sound weird, but it’s the area with the solar panels on the way from East to Main Campus. Early in the morning, I get to watch the sunrise there, and the whole city spreads out before you like it’s welcoming you to a new day.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
Acılı lahmacun, hands down! It’s spicy and tangy and has this incredible freshness to it that hits all the right notes. Among all the Turkish foods I’ve tried, this one wins by a long shot.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
While you might think that, as a physics major, I would have big ambitions, I truly just enjoy studying the universe. In ten years, I hope to see myself studying the universe, exploring its mysteries and fulfilling my curiosity.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
I’ve learned a completely different level of honesty here. Back home in Pakistan, we have this saying: “If you can cheat, cheat.” Here in Türkiye, I’ve met people who actually hate the idea of cheating on their homework! Their integrity has genuinely inspired me to be more honest in everything I do.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
Right now, my favorite spot is Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque in İstanbul, right by the Bosphorus. You can see Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and all the landmarks of İstanbul with the sea stretching out in front of you.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
“Lahore, doesn’t it have a lot of pollution?” While I don’t hate the question, Lahore is just so much bigger than the pollution. It’s a remarkable city, and while the pollution is a problem, it shouldn’t overshadow the beauty of Lahore.
Describe yourself in three words.
Curious, resourceful, passionate.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
It’s extremely stressful—I won’t sugarcoat that. The academic pressure is intense and constant, but you do get opportunities to explore your passion. You interact with professors who truly love their subject and have a passion for teaching. So, I would say Bilkent is stressful, but there are moments that make it all worthwhile.
