From Türkiye to Bristol: A year of opportunity and change

Leaving a good job to start studying a postgraduate course as a student might not make sense to some people. At first glance, it might seem awkward or complicated, but as a lifelong learner, it worked perfectly for me.

My name is Hasan Tanriseven; I served as a mid-level leader in Türkiye until my Chevening journey started.

I was pleased with my job because I had regular duties, a good work environment, and a salary above that of general employees. I was comfortable, but for me this was not enough.

This is the prime reason I applied for Chevening.

Of course, it is not easy to be awarded a Chevening Scholarship, but if you are ambitious and believe in yourself, you can realise your goal. When I found out my application had been successful, my heart raced in anticipation of the future that awaited me. The award meant saying farewell to my previous job, colleagues, and country, and saying ‘hello’ to the UK as a student.

Landing in Bristol

After the preparation, sensation, and trepidation period, I boarded my flight to Bristol.

I know that first impressions are important. A middle-aged passport officer welcomed me at Bristol Airport. She was smiling, and I had a very positive chat with her.

Later, I hired a taxi and went to the city centre to look around. It was a Saturday night; the city was bright and cool, and everyone looked so chic and elegant. The beauty and glamour of Bristol fascinated me. I told myself, ‘your decision was right, and you are in the right place’.

A miraculous city

The next day, I got up early and started to explore Bristol. I found Cabot Circus, Banksy’s street art, and the city’s historical monuments to be captivating. I continued to walk through this culturally diverse city until I was exhausted.

I started my course on Monday. I was in front of the symbol of the University of Bristol Willis Memorial building, which was astonishing.

The university is located in the heart of Bristol and is made up of so many historical buildings.

Broadened  horizons

During my studies as a public policy master’s student, I shared my practices while working as a community leader in my home country. My exposure to the postgraduate degree, interaction with classmates, and exchange of knowledge and ideas with professors, including members of the Chevening community, have helped me gain a new understanding of leadership.

After my studies, I will return to Türkiye to do my job and serve my country better. I firmly believe that Chevening has broadened my horizons in many ways. Firstly, it has enabled me to look at problems from a different perspective and develop lasting solutions. Secondly, my course has provided me with a wide range of experience with different perspectives on such issues as migration, security, governance, political economy, and the reduction of social tension, which will pave the way for creative and innovative approaches to similar issues facing Türkiye.

A great community

Lastly, it goes without saying that Chevening is an exceptional community. I am happy to be a part of this network of brilliant and inspiring minds and I am happy to have chosen the University of Bristol to experience it all.