BY EHSAN ULLAH SHAREEF (CTIS/II)
Name: Aneta Bořutová
Department: THM/II Erasmus+
Country of Origin: Czech Republic
University: Tomas Bata University in Zlin
What were your first impressions about Türkiye?
I landed in Türkiye with my roommate on a wild, squiggly night, our suitcases bursting out of the taxi trunk, tied with a rope like runaway sausages! Nobody spoke English, there was no internet, and I laughed watching our bags almost zoom into the street. By the time we got to Bilkent at 3 a.m., my tired eyes could barely stay open. The next morning, I sat up in bed, pulled my blanket close, and looked out my window at the whole city. That view made me sure I was here for four whole months of marvelous adventure.
What do you like best about Bilkent and Türkiye?
Bilkent’s system is radically different from my university back home. Here, mandatory attendance actually pushes you to show up! There are practical experiences too, which never happens back home, where there’s much more theory. Mid-terms here come in waves…just when you think you’re safe, the second one pops up to give your brain a proper tickle! And Türkiye as a country? I love it so much—I came here the first time for a short Erasmus experience in Adana, where my host family stuffed me silly every night until I half expected to wake up as a giant piece of baklava. The people, the culture—I just had to return.
Are there any similarities between Türkiye and your home country?
This question was like a silly ghost, chasing me—and all my Czech friends—around! We tried and tried but couldn’t find any real similarities. The schools are different…the air smells new…and even the sunsets seem to wear brand‑new colors. But then I remembered something very odd and perfect: both Turkish and Czech people call tea “çay”—well, in Czech, it’s “čaj.” Now, whenever I want to sound clever, I tell my family “çay” on WhatsApp.
What will you miss most about Bilkent/Türkiye?
I just know I’ll cry buckets when it’s time to say goodbye! I’ll miss my professors—especially Nefike G. Sorathia, who always made sure we felt comfortable and cared for on campus. I’ll miss friends who became family—living together, swapping life stories, surviving mid-terms and building memories. But most of all, I’ll miss Bilkent itself—a place that made me feel more welcomed than anywhere else and where every single day felt like the start of a brand‑new story, waiting to be told forever.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
My favorite place is the study room in Dorm 77, right by the vending machine—so cozy, and just a quick hop from my room! It’s quiet, like a secret hideout for thinkers. And sometimes my friends and I wander up the hill from our dorm where we meet the “çatı cats” who almost believe they rule the world, while we’re enjoying the “tea” that one of us has got to spill.
What’s your favorite Turkish food and why?
Baklava is at the top of the list—and not just for the taste. It was the first Turkish food I tried during my Erasmus in Adana. Every bite now brings back all those wonderful memories—a taste of genuine warmth.
Where do you expect to see yourself 10 years from now?
I dream of becoming a nutritionist, living somewhere in Europe, hopefully with a family—maybe two kids. My goal is always to help people and build a career I’m proud of. If I look back and see I’ve made even a small difference, I’ll call that a win.
What’s one thing you learned from Turkish culture?
The greetings! In Türkiye especially the ladies are big on cheek kisses and friendly hellos—which is totally different from the Czech handshakes or polite nods. It felt unusual at first, but it’s something I really love now.
What places have you visited in Türkiye, and which one is your favorite?
I’ve wandered from Antalya to İzmir, bounced through Adana, visited Anıtkabir and the Ankara Castle and tiptoed through Cappadocia. Out of all those dazzling places, Cappadocia is my absolute favorite—its magical landscape looks like it’s been ripped straight from a dream! I really wish I could have floated in a hot-air balloon. But you know, Adana holds a special place in my heart—for the people and as well as for the food I had there.
What’s an interesting question or comment you hear frequently at Bilkent/in Türkiye?
“Bilkent is hard.” And after I got through my first tough mid-term, everyone smiled and said, “Welcome to Bilkent!”
Describe yourself in three words.
Social, hardworking, helpful.
How is the studying experience at Bilkent?
I really love Bilkent’s system, despite the challenges. The mid-terms and essays were new to me, but I love the private school life. Free sports and even all-paid accommodations. Everybody, from professors to students, goes out of their way to help—sometimes even offering rides across campus! It’s a place where you feel truly welcomed and supported.