Students from the Faculty of National Culture at Comrat State University, Marina Malenkova, Alena Kyulafly, and Elena Mavrodi, participated in the Erasmus+ Student Mobility for Traineeships (SMT) program at Samsun Ondokuz Mayıs University, Turkey, from July 1, 2024, to August 31, 2024.
Participation in the Erasmus+ mobility program was an incredible and enriching experience. During the two months, the students studied Turkish, immersing themselves in the culture of the country. The program not only improved their language skills but also allowed them to learn a great deal about life, traditions, and customs in Türkiye.
Learning Turkish was a key part of their stay. The students actively attended language classes, which enabled them to master the basics of the language and communicate freely with the locals. This was a true cultural exchange that helped them better understand the mentality of the Turkish people.
One of the most interesting parts of their stay was walking around the city where they lived. Every day, they sought to learn more about its history and culture. By strolling through the charming streets, they discovered various landmarks, from historical monuments to modern neighborhoods, which gave them a better understanding of the city’s daily life and its residents. These were not just tours but opportunities to experience the atmosphere, see how the city lives, how locals spend their time, and what they value in their culture.
The sightseeing trips were particularly impressive. One of these trips was to a stunning canyon. Additionally, an unforgettable journey was to the city of Ordu, located on the Black Sea coast. Ordu amazed with its beautiful views, especially from the cable car, which offered a breathtaking view of the city, the sea, and the mountains. In Ordu, the students also visited several cultural sites, which helped them better understand the rich history and traditions of the region.
Throughout the program, the students not only became familiar with Turkish culture but also made many new friends from different countries. They exchanged experiences, shared their own traditions, and learned to understand each other.
The students express their sincere gratitude to the International Office of Comrat State University for providing the opportunity to participate in the Erasmus+ program. They extend special thanks to the university for its support and organization of this unique experience, which enriched them both personally and professionally. This experience has inspired them to further develop in the field of intercultural communication and to pursue a deeper study of languages and cultures.
