I never imagined that life would bring me to share a room—and part of my soul—with a Turkish girl named Hatice Ergün, a student of Chemical Engineering from Istanbul, Türkiye, with a kind heart and a graceful spirit. For two full years, we lived side by side, in the same room, sharing not only space but stories, smiles, and a piece of each other's world.

Our daily routines often became shared moments: enjoying meals, drinking tea, and having breakfast side by side. We explored the city together, participated in group visits and excursions, and created memories that extended far beyond the physical boundaries of our room. Through photographs and heartfelt conversations, I came to know her family, particularly her kind mother, who hand-stitched socks for me and once sent a beautifully embroidered handkerchief as a thoughtful gift. On several occasions, she even sent homemade meals that we enjoyed together—a gesture that deeply reflected the warmth of Turkish hospitality. As a small token of appreciation and friendship, I gifted her a bouquet of flowers to keep as a memory of the meaningful time we spent together.

Likewise, Hatice learned about my family and culture through shared photos and stories. Our friendship became a platform for mutual learning; I taught her words in Arabic, and she introduced me to expressions in Turkish. It was a genuine and respectful exchange of language, tradition, and values—one that enriched us both academically and personally.

Never did I expect to live with a Turkish roommate, but fate brought us together, and the experience proved to be not only harmonious but profoundly enriching. The time we spent living, learning, and growing together was a remarkable chapter in both of our lives—built on respect, understanding, and shared human connection.

As Hatice now graduates with a degree in Chemical Engineering, she leaves the room we once shared behind, taking with her the memories of our time together and stepping forward into a promising future. I have no doubt that she will succeed in all her endeavors and continue to inspire those around her.

This experience has shown me how powerful cross-cultural exchange can be in fostering a spirit of love, understanding, and openness. By embracing each other’s differences and sharing our stories, we not only broaden our own horizons but also build bridges that unite people across cultures. It is through such connections that we learn to appreciate the beauty of diversity and nurture a more compassionate and inclusive world.

I sincerely wish her continued success in all her future endeavors, while cherishing the unforgettable journey we shared with deep gratitude and lasting respect.