A view from the outside by AUCA international student of Journalism and Mass Communications, Geete Ramazan

April 6, 2015

The American University of Central Asia (AUCA) in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, is well known for its high-level education, diversity and friendly environment. Its international students’ community contributes greatly to the spirit of the university. Geete Ramazan, a senior student in Journalism and Mass Communications from Afghanistan, shares what it is like to be an international student at AUCA.

“My name is Getee Ramazan, I am 22 years old. I come from Kabul, Afghanistan. Before I traveled to the Kyrgyz Republic, I only knew about the Kyrgyz national attire. It has been five years since I moved to Bishkek. Learning about new cultures is what I like the most. I enjoy interacting with new people, learning from them. In Bishkek, I have made many friends who have become like brothers and sisters to me. My first impression of Kyrgyzstan was that it was a small but beautiful country. Bishkek is a very progressive city. I was impressed by the level of education here and the cooperation of women alongside men in order to have a better quality of life. I like and appreciate the culture of tolerance and diversity here. I believe that education is the only thing which enlightens people’s hearts and minds.

AUCA played a significant role in my personal and professional life. Its multicultural environment enables students to appreciate diversity and learn from each other’s differences. AUCA opened the doors of opportunities for my future. Last year, I studied one semester at the Montreal University in Canada as a junior exchange student. I also actively took part in celebrations such as Nawruz and Thanksgiving Day singing songs in Kyrgyz and Russian languages.

Involving in extracurricular activities within the university is an awesome experience. There is no free time in my Kyrgyz life. I am always busy with something, either studying, cooking and doing sports. I practice yoga, basketball, aerobics, photography, bowling and I also travel, blog, write, draw Henna, and sing.  I have also participated in Model United Nations conferences and Crisis Games.

The challenge of living abroad might be homesickness. So, I really suggest those coming from Afghanistan to be motivated and set short and long term goals to achieve peace and development building in Afghanistan. I really recommend choosing a field of study, which will not only lead to a good job but also bring business opportunities. Girls particularly should focus on becoming financially independent and self-reliant.

My plan is to get my master’s degree either in Bishkek OSCE Academy or Aga Khan University UK, MA, in the Institute of Studies of Muslim Cultures, and then return to my home country and bring a positive change.”

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