Savoring Stories of Türkiye

 

After days of discovering more and more about Türkiye and its rich culture, it’s finally time to reflect and share my experience.I’ve been living in Ankara for almost a month now, but it honestly feels like I arrived just a week ago. Time has flown by so quickly, probably because every day has been filled with new experiences, challenges, and moments of learning. This month has been one of the most enriching periods of my life—full of cultural exploration, personal growth, and opportunities to improve my communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Let me start with my personal journey in the city. This is my first time in Ankara, and as with any new place, adapting wasn’t easy at first, I had to adjust new life, new culture and new people, but I believe that people who I met here helped me to overcome these difficulties and made an adaptation process easier. Fortunetly I have amazing roommates and from the very beginning, I felt supported and welcomed. I feel so lucky to be living with them—they’re not just roommates, they’ve become close friends and an essential part of my daily life here. I can’t imagine exploring the city, going out, or even spending a quiet evening at home without them.

Through our activities I’ve made friends from different backgrounds, some who share similar interests and others who have completely different perspectives. I truly enjoy engaging in conversations with them, whether we’re discussing shared passions or debating different viewpoints. It’s natural that not everyone will think the same way, but what matters is that we respect one another and find common ground. I really value the open-minded and friendly atmosphere we’ve created—whether we’re in the office with my hosts or relaxing at home with my roommates, the environment is always warm and welcoming.

The past month has also been packed with memorable activities. We’ve traveled to different cities, tried a wide variety of local foods, and participated in cultural events that gave us a deeper understanding of Türkiye’s history and traditions. Each experience was unique and meaningful in its own way. There are honestly too many to describe in full detail, but every trip and every new thing I tried has left a lasting impression. Whether it was walking through historic streets, joining traditional celebrations, or simply sharing a cup of tea with someone new, each moment added to this unforgettable journey.

One of the first places that we’ve visited is Anıtkabir one of the most powerful and symbolic places in Ankara. Anıtkabir isn’t only a place to visit, it is a national monument that reflects the spirit of Turkish independence, unity, and resilience.  The architecture is unique, a blend of modern and classical styles, combining everything in a way that feels inspiring.  Visiting Anıtkabir is not just a lesson in history—it’s an emotional experience that leaves a deep impression on anyone who walks through its gates.

Another important place that I believe I should mention is Bursa. Bursa isn’t just a city, it is a place where history, nature, mountains and tradition beautifully intertwine. As a person who loves history it was very special for me to visit the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Walking through its old quarters felt like stepping back in time—grand mosques, centuries-old bazaars, and beautifully preserved Ottoman architecture give the city a unique charm. Bursa is a place where every building, every corner, and even every stone carries a deep sense of history. Whether you are in the street, drinking tea in a centuries-old café or trying its famous İskender kebap there's always a silent reminder that you are standing on ground shaped by time and legacy.

One more thing that I found very interesting about Bursa is its nature. After visiting Bursa it got clear why it is called “Green City” (Yeşil Şehir). Surrounding beautiful mountains and green forest make it a city with a perfect balance between urban life and nature.

Next site visit was in Gaziantep. Gaziantep is a city where history and flavor come alive in perfect harmony. The city’s historic bazaars bustle with energy and filled with colorful spices. Gaziantep is famous worldwide for its baklava—a sweet treat that carries the tradition. And of course this blog won’t be complete without mentioning the majestic Rumkale, standing proudly on the banks of the Euphrates River. Gaziantep invites visitors to not only taste its rich flavors but also to explore its deep-rooted history and warm, welcoming culture.

But beyond the grand experiences, my daily life here is filled with small moments that bring the culture to life in the most unexpected and meaningful ways. As part of my organization, I’ve had the chance to work with students of different ages and backgrounds. As a future teacher, I truly value this opportunity—it’s been a kind of hands-on practice that has confirmed my decision to pursue this path. Meeting schoolchildren, receiving their warm smiles and hugs, has become an essential part of my weekly routine—something I genuinely look forward to every time. It’s a different but equally rewarding experience with university students, many of whom have already become good friends. We often engage in thoughtful conversations on a variety of topics, and they’ve introduced me to some of the hidden corners of Ankara that I might not have discovered on my own. I’m especially grateful that our relationship goes beyond the room—we continue our connection outside of conversation clubs, turning academic moments into lasting friendships.

Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity. Living in Ankara has taught me not just about Turkish culture, but also about myself—how to be more adaptable, more open, and more appreciative of the differences that make every person and every culture unique. I’m excited to see what the coming weeks will bring and to continue growing through this amazing experience.