A Path I Never Planned

Studying abroad wasn’t something I had planned for. My original intention was to remain in Pakistan—pursuing medicine, possibly sitting for the MDCAT and applying to universities like LUMS or NUST. But during my A Level year, I began applying to international universities more out of curiosity than conviction. I wasn’t expecting much.

Then I received my acceptance letter from Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, Turkey. I hadn’t even taken the MDCAT yet. The offer came earlier than expected, and everything changed. What began as an uncertain backup quickly became my next step.

The Application Process: Simple and Straightforward

Unlike many Western university applications, the process for Turkish universities was uncomplicated. Since I’m from Pakistan, I was exempt from submitting English proficiency tests, and METU didn’t require the SAT either. I applied solely with my A Level results: three A*s (in the sciences) and one A in Psychology.

Extracurriculars were not a significant part of the process. The application included a space to mention any activities related to my chosen field of study, but I hadn’t done anything directly relevant at the time—so I left it blank. There was also a brief written section, more of a personal paragraph than an essay. I don’t even recall what I wrote exactly, but I completed the entire application in less than a day.

Why I Chose METU

I had offers from other universities in Pakistan, Turkey, and even the United States. But METU stood out. Its strong academic reputation, currently one of the top-ranked colleges in Turkey, was a major factor. That, along with its affordability as a public institution, made it a practical choice.

The proximity to Pakistan also made a difference. Being able to travel home during holidays is something I value, and living in Turkey makes that much more accessible than it would have been if I’d chosen a university in the U.S. or Australia.

Life on Campus and in Ankara

I live in an on-campus dormitory, which keeps things convenient and affordable. Although student visas in Turkey don’t allow for formal employment, I do tutor online as a way to support myself. Beyond that, I’m fully self-funded.

Some days are lighter, with only a few hours of lectures; others are much more. Between classes, I often go to the laboratory where I intern, and in the evenings, I teach online or study.

Adjusting to METU’s Academic Culture

The cultural transition from Pakistan to Turkey was smoother than I expected. To be completely transparent, the environment didn’t feel drastically different. What did require adjustment, however, was my academic life.

METU is an extreme university, and the workload reflects that. There are always exams and tests to be taken. First there are first midterms, then second midterms, finals, regular quizzes and assignments. There’s no official break during midterm periods, so classes continue even as exams are taking place. In some semesters, I’ve had as many as ten or twelve midterms.

There isn’t a secret to how I manage. I simply study regularly. At METU, falling behind even slightly can make catching up very difficult.

Choosing My Major

My interest in biology began long before university. It’s always been my favorite subject. Around 2019, I began reading about careers in virology and research, and when the COVID-19 pandemic started, that interest just grew. It  deepened my curiosity about how viruses work and how research can address these problems. 

At METU, I had the option of studying general biology or focusing more narrowly on molecular biology and genetics. I chose the latter because it aligned more closely with my interest in research and provided a more specialized academic path.

Gaining Experience Through Internships

Currently, I’m interning in a lab within my department that focuses on plant biotechnology and breeding. My role is largely observational, assisting Master’s and PhD students with their experiments. It’s been an excellent opportunity to see research in action and to begin understanding what a career in this field might look like.

I also completed a previous internship in Pakistan and plan to apply for more opportunities in the summer. While student work is restricted, internships—especially those affiliated with the university—are still possible and encouraged.

Campus Involvement and Community

METU has a wide range of student clubs and organizations, including ones specifically for international students. I was involved in a few during my earlier semesters, but over time, I’ve shifted my focus more toward academics and research. Still, the community here is welcoming, and there are plenty of opportunities for students to connect outside the classroom.

Looking Ahead

As for the future, I’m still figuring it out. I haven’t made a firm decision on whether I’ll remain in Turkey after graduation, return to Pakistan, or pursue opportunities elsewhere. For now, my focus is on finishing my degree and gaining as much experience as I can.

Advice for Future Applicants

If you’re a Pakistani student considering METU, my main advice is simple: focus on your academics. Turkish universities, particularly METU, place significant weight on grades. You don’t need a long list of extracurriculars or polished essays to stand out. Strong academic performance is the priority.

Also, try learning some basic Turkish before you arrive. Almost everyone speaks it, and while English is common in academic settings, daily life will be much easier if you can understand or speak even a little. I’ve been here for three years now and my Turkish has improved a lot—but I wish I’d started earlier. Trust me, knowing how to ask for directions, order food, or talk to your dorm receptionist goes a long way.

Studying abroad doesn’t always require the most elaborate plan. Sometimes, all it takes is one application and the willingness to try something new.