Hey all! I'm Batu. I'm a '26 from Istanbul, Turkey, and I am passionate about the cognitive science of design, developmental psychology, aesthetics research, postcolonial literature, and social media marketing! Be sure to reach out with questions about exploring the liberal arts, learning a new language at Dartmouth, cafes in town (one of my favorite blog series dare I say), study abroad programs, and research on campus!
Having studied at a residential high school for five years, I thought I was fully prepared to move across the world. Though being in a different country challenged (and continues to challenge) me in unforeseen ways, I believe it is a natural part of adjusting to college to feel a little lost at times. I used to only think of the people I love when I thought of home. It just appeared to me that I also miss social and cultural aspects of Turkey. Luckily, I found a Turkish store just half an hour away from Dartmouth!
I have been complaining to all my friends about how I regret not bringing Turkish coffee grains from back home. Last week, one of my friends who heard me complaining told me there is a Turkish store nearby called Little Istanbul. As soon as my classes ended that Friday, I was on a mission. To my surprise, the Advanced Transit (local bus network in New Hampshire and Vermont) takes me from Dartmouth to White River Junction, where the shop is located, for free!
The Spice Bazaar in Istanbul might be one of my favorite places to visit. The bazaar is characterized by its lively marketplace and the profound smell of a myriad of spices. I was met with the same smell the second I stepped into Little Istanbul.
Turkish spices!
To my right were colorful Turkish ceramic plates while traditional Turkish lamps were hanging from the ceiling. I met the owner, who is originally from Turkey, and talked with him for around half an hour over Turkish tea!
Turkish ceramic plates
Coming back to campus after my visit, I realized how important it is to stay connected to my home while establishing a sense of place at Dartmouth. Since last week, I have been actively trying to seek community through cultural exchange.
All Dartmouth students are assigned to one of the six housing communities. As a member of East Wheelock House, I have pitched to my housing community to hold Turkish coffee sessions and people loved the idea! Office of Pluralism and Leadership is another great resource that contributes to the mission of creating a Dartmouth that enables all students to thrive and value diversity. Lastly, the International Student Association is a student group that fosters intercultural exchange through various events over the year. I have appreciated their support in my journey of adjusting to Dartmouth!
I am beyond glad to have visited Little Istanbul, and I cannot wait to share more aspects of my home with my friends on campus!
As a senior now, I've experienced and learned more about myself and about life than I ever anticipated I could. With that, I want to reflect on Dartmouth's unique qualities, from its rural setting to the Greek Life presence to the quarter system!
