A conversation with an American exchange student, who is also living in Turkey

Branden Cole, exchange student in Turkey

Name: My name is Branden Cole.
Age: 18 years old 
From: A city called Rochester in the State of New York, USA. 


Why did you decided to exchange?
I wanted to become an exchange student to learn a new language and experience a new culture, and at the same time meet new people who could introduce me to opportunities that I would never have gotten in America. 

How was the process to you came in exchange program?

Of course the process wasn't easy. After deciding to become an exchange student, I had a lot of paper work to fill out, and a long interview process. Of course without the love and support of my family I couldn't have obtained this wonderful opportunity.


What did you think about Turkey before you came?
Before I came to Turkey I didn't know much about it. Actually I didn't even know where it was on the map. All that I knew about it was that it was a Muslim country. 

Turkish language.

As soon as I found out that I was going to go to Turkey I got on the internet and searched for Turkish language courses. Luckily there were courses available from the Turkish Cultural Center in my city. I immediately started attending classes and quickly started learning fundamental Turkish as well as cultural aspects of Turkey and Turkish people. My lessons prepared me well, since I got off of the plane in Istanbul on August the 31st I haven't had to speak a word of english. But that doesn't mean that it was easy. Since arriving I have spent an average of 4 hours a day studying Turkish. In the month of September usually I spent 6-8 hours a day studying. Turkish is widely considered one of the world's most difficult languages and I firmly agree with it. Despite that Turks are very excited when you attempt to speak their language, and are happy to fulfill your every need. 


Turkish food.
Turkish people are generally very kind and the food: Turkish food is quite possibly the best in the world. I could eat turkish food everyday for the rest of my life and not get bored with it. 

Do you recommend the exchange program?
I would 100% recommend this program to anyone who would be interested in a year abroad and having the greatest time of their life. 


Do you want to be an exchange student again but in another country?
If I could become an exchange student again I would of course, without hesitation accept. As the country I would have to choose between Germany, Russia, or Brazil. I like all three of them and I'm slowly learning a little bit of all 3 of those languages in my spare time to prepare for when I can actually go to those countries. 


Do you want to thank someone for this living here in Turkey in the exchange program?


Of course my thanks go out to Rotary, my family and my new family in Turkey as well as all of the friends and councilors that I have had along the way who have all provided me with these great opportunities and memories. I will never forget this year and am truly indebted to Rotary for it!

Branden Cole in the Big Tour 

Branden Cole in the Big Tour 

Branden, me, Jorge C., Samuel