BAU Students from 116 Countries Come Together for International Day

Bahçeşehir University (BAU)'s traditional International Day once again brought vibrant and colorful scenes to campus. Students from 116 different countries studying at BAU, ranging from the Philippines to Uzbekistan and from Sweden to Palestine, took part in a flag parade representing their nations. During the event, cultural objects and traditional clothing were showcased at country booths, while visitors were treated to authentic national dishes. Students also performed on stage wearing traditional attire from their respective countries.

The International Day event, which brings together students from different parts of the world studying at BAU, was held at Bahçeşehir University’s Beşiktaş Campus. Throughout the event, students dressed in traditional clothing proudly represented their countries at dedicated booths. They prepared and served traditional dishes from their national cuisines to visitors. The celebration, attended by students from 116 countries, began with a flag parade. Students arriving by boat to the campus shoreline marched with their national flags, creating an enthusiastic and festive atmosphere.

The event continued in a celebratory spirit as students took to the stage in traditional costumes and performed songs from their cultures. BAU Board of Trustees Chairman Enver Yücel, BAU Rector Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu, members of the Board of Trustees, and academic staff also attended the event. While visiting the country booths, Enver Yücel spoke with students and posed for photographs.

“BRINGING DIFFERENT CULTURES TOGETHER IS INVALUABLE”

Deniz Yeröz, a Physiotherapy student representing the North America booth, stated that International Day is organized annually at the university, saying, “Every year, our university hosts International Day. Student communities from all around the world participate in this event. We represent North America. I grew up in North America and later returned to Türkiye with my family. Right next to us is the South America booth. We prepared pancakes for visitors. We are having a very enjoyable and wonderful day.” Emphasizing the importance of bringing together students from different cultural backgrounds, Yeröz added, “It is not very common in Türkiye to see so many people from different countries and cultures gathered in one place. Seeing everyone come together to introduce their own culture and celebrate it collectively is a very valuable and meaningful experience for me.”

“INTERNATIONAL DAY IS LIKE A HOLIDAY FOR US”

Botir Musakhodjaev, a Logistics student and representative of the Uzbekistan booth, highlighted the event’s role in bringing different cultures together, saying, “Today feels like a holiday for us. Through International Day, different countries have the opportunity to introduce their cultures and cuisines. We are presenting traditional Uzbek flavors to visitors. Our booth features products such as basil-flavored cheese and halva. We invite everyone to come and try them.”

“INTERNATIONAL DAY HELPS REDUCE HOMESICKNESS”

Mukhlisa Bobojonova, a Political Science and International Relations student and one of the representatives of the Uzbekistan booth, explained that the event holds special significance for international students, saying, “To be honest, events like this make us feel very special. You are living far from home in a different country, yet here you can meet people from your own culture while also discovering many others. It is truly a wonderful experience.”

Bobojonova also emphasized that the event strengthens students’ sense of belonging, saying, “It helps you feel less homesick. While sharing your own culture, you also have the opportunity to explore and learn about others.”

“WE ARE INTRODUCING PALESTINIAN CULTURE AND LITERATURE”

Ymama Abusebih, a Psychology student representing the Palestine booth, stated that they were showcasing their country’s cultural heritage during the event, saying, “At our booth, we are displaying various elements of Palestinian culture. Alongside our map, we are also presenting the works of Palestinian writer, journalist, and poet Ghassan Kanafani. Kanafani is a highly respected figure known for his important works depicting the Palestinian people and their struggle.”

Abusebih added, “Through this event, we have the opportunity both to represent our country and to share our culture with people from many different nations.”

“WE LOOK FORWARD TO IT EVERY YEAR”

Kayra Bekdemir, a Political Science and International Relations student and one of the representatives of the Russia booth, explained that he volunteered at the booth because his mother is Russian. Bekdemir noted that the event allows students from various countries to showcase their cultures, saying, “Students from every country set up their own booths here. At the Russia booth, we are introducing traditional Russian flavors to visitors. We serve Russian dumplings, Russian salad, and traditional Russian pancakes.” Highlighting the popularity of the event among students, Bekdemir added, “There is a very joyful atmosphere. Most students look forward to this day every year. The activities usually begin in the morning and continue until late in the evening, allowing everyone to spend quality time together and enjoy the celebration.”