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Erasmus+ Testimonials: Alexandra USALOVA's Erasmus+ Experience at Karadeniz Technical University

Alexandra USALOVA from University of Presov in Slovakia successfully completed her 6-month internship within the framework of Erasmus+ Programme at Karadeniz Technical University's Russian Language and Literature Department. Here is her Erasmus+ testimonial written by herself:

My Erasmus+ Adventure in Trabzon: Between Excitement and Growth

Well before I graduated, I kept thinking about what would come next. I had plenty of student jobs, but the idea of diving straight into a full-time work felt overwhelming. I wanted something more—to travel, experience new cultures, and to gain skills that would prepare me for my future career.

Since I’d already done an Erasmus+ exchange as a student which I really enjoyed, I decided to try my luck again but this time as a graduate. After months of searching and reaching out to different organizations, I got the perfect opportunity: Lect. Onur Aydin, from Karadeniz Technical University's (KTU) Office of Exchange Programmes, offered me an internship at KTU Russian Language and Literature Department. As a recent Russian philology graduate, this was an ideal position—a chance to improve my teaching and communication skills in a supportive academic environment.

I admit, I was nervous at first. Turkish culture was completely different from what I knew, and Trabzon was much farther from home than I’d ever been. But deep down, I knew this was the challenge I needed—a fresh start, new experiences, and a way to push myself out of my comfort zone.

Thankfully, Lect. Aydin made everything easier. His responsiveness and helping nature smoothed out all the paperwork, and before I knew it, I was landing in Trabzon, where my assigned "buddy" helped me settle in. And just like that, my Turkish chapter began.

Trabzon: A Warm Welcome

I’d heard mixed things about Trabzon before arriving—mostly warnings about constant rain, a lack of things to do, and unfriendly locals. But my experience couldn’t have been more different. The city was beautiful, surrounded by lush green mountains and the Black Sea, with a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. And contrary to the rumors, we had plenty of sunny days—more than back home in Slovakia!

The people were the biggest surprise. My colleagues welcomed me with open arms from the very first day. They were always checking in, asking if I needed anything, and making sure I felt at home. I’m especially grateful to Res. Assist. Halil Yilmaz, who went out of his way to help me with everything, and Res. Assist. Sule Nur Kalkavan, my office mate, who always offered to share her food (though my lactose intolerance made it tricky—Turkish cuisine loves butter and milk!).

What struck me most was how quickly I became part of their little work family. Never once did I feel like an outsider.
Teaching and Learning

As a new graduate stepping into a teaching role, I got to see the university from both sides. I really liked the friendly atmosphere in the classes. The faculty was impressively modern—more like a corporate office than a typical university building! The students were engaged and motivated, often organizing their own speaking clubs and activities. It was incredibly rewarding to work with people who were so eager to learn.
Life Beyond the Classroom

Outside of work, I fell in love with Trabzon’s rhythm. I joined the university’s women’s basketball team, where the girls treated me like a sister, and even ran the Trabzon Public Run with my boyfriend and a local friend, Fatih. The campus itself was fantastic—packed with sports facilities, surrounded by restaurants and shops, and just a short trip from the airport.

One of the most eye-opening experiences was Ramadan. I knew it involved fasting, but I hadn’t realized just how strict it was—no food or water was consumed at all during daylight! I tried it for two days but couldn’t last. What I loved most was how everyone would gather in the evenings to eat together. I was also deeply touched by the community tents set up around the city where people could share meals. It was such a beautiful and extraordinary experience for me – truly special.

A Chapter I’ll Never Forget

Overall, my experience was absolutely wonderful. I made so many new friends from different countries - including finding both a "sister" and a kindred spirit. I learned so much about life beyond Slovakia's borders, about Turkish culture, tried amazing new foods, and developed a real love for black tea. I got to visit incredible places like Istanbul, Sivas, Uzungol, Cayeli, and Rize - and even traveled beyond Turkiye to explore Georgia's Batumi and Tbilisi.

This experience gave me invaluable skills - in communication, teaching, and personal growth. I cuddled countless stray dogs and cats, stocked up on Turkish coffee, and somehow managed to fit everything in my suitcase (barely!). But most importantly, I'm leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.

PHOTO GALLERY


23 May 2025

 

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