When I first arrived at Gazi University in Ankara in February 2025, I wasn’t sure what to expect from my one semester Erasmus+ exchange. Back home in Baku I study Translation, but here I was enrolled in the English Language Teaching program, attending courses like Writing Skills, Effective and Oral Communication, Grammar, and even German (a fun change from the Chinese I’d been learning in Baku!). Classes met only three times a week, but the workload outside of classes got heavier near the end of the semester. Thankfully, the academic system here is very similar to Khazar University’s, so I adapted quickly and never felt lost.
Outside the lecture halls, Ankara surprised me at every turn. Turks really love their coffee – coffeeshops are on every corner. Everyone I’ve met is passionately stylish and expressive, and I’ve had to remind myself (always!) that it’s important to hug twice when greeting someone. I’ve also bonded deeply with my Erasmus friends from Romania and Poland: we’ve gone to karting, karaoke, museum trips, lakeside picnics, volleyball games, and late-night study sessions over baklava and vegan çiğköfte. Their warm invitations pulled me out of my introvert shell time and again, and I’m so grateful for them.
Of course, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. As a native Russian speaker, I struggle with Turkish and rely on English almost everywhere, which can feel isolating. I miss the familiar comforts of Baku and sometimes long for home. But this exchange has forced me to become fiercely independent: I’ve cooked my own meals for the first time, started working out, mastered budgeting, and even navigated bureaucracy without knowing the local language. Living day-to-day in a new city has taught me resilience and how to truly live in the moment.
One of my proudest achievements here was writing and presenting my first academic research paper at a university conference, I even received a certificate! And since I’m a huge Eurovision fan, I’ve decided to take a solo train trip to Istanbul in May to watch the contest there, explore the city, and soak up its unique energy.
Here are some tips for Future Erasmus Students in Turkey: say “yes” to invites and let new friends introduce you to hidden gems; use study breaks to recharge (quality over quantity!), try local specialties; take photos, jot down journal entries (I carry mine everywhere!), and reflect on small victories.
I’m so thankful to Khazar University and the Erasmus+ program for this life-changing opportunity. This semester has reshaped my worldview and helped me grow into a more confident, responsible person. If you’re considering Erasmus, just go for it – you might discover strengths you never knew you had!
Emilia Ibrahimli
