Duke University Office of Study Abroad

Dear Office of Study Abroad:

The highlight of my abroad experience was meeting all the wonderful friends that I made. One of my closest friends, Laura, was one whom I met ON the Duke in Istanbul program. We met the first night at dinner and were best friends for the entire semester. My highlight was meeting her and having that 8-day first excursion to share a room, experience Turkey, and really bond. Upon returning to Istanbul I felt that together we could conquer the city and meet plenty of other international students; all which we did.

My study abroad experience made me realize that I ADORE Turkish culture and people. I have been to Turkey many times growing up, but the near 5-month stay I had in the country affirmed for me that I want to go there more and more. I loved the class I took with Guven; it was interesting and made me question the meaning of God, not just in MY life but those around me. It has made me really think about how God (or lack of acknowledgment of God) affects my life.

I would give the following advice [to students considering studying abroad in Turkey]:

1. Realize that people come to Turkey for a number of reasons and with various interests. The group is interesting and eclectic. I met some of the smartest and most interesting people I have ever met while abroad in Turkey.

2. The academics are HARD. Be ready to WORK at Bogazici.

3. HAVE FUN!!

– Tamara Wyzanski