Hey, I’m Faisal Yusuf from Bahrain, and I’m currently studying at IBSU. I’m pursuing my undergraduate degree in International Relations. I chose IBSU because it has a really diverse international community, and the business faculty has a strong reputation.

Honestly, when I first thought about moving to Georgia, I expected it to be cold, a bit different, and maybe challenging to adjust to. I was a bit nervous about making new friends and getting used to a new culture. And yes, there definitely were some cultural differences – like the language, food, and even how people interact. But looking back, studying abroad has made me a lot more independent, adaptable, and open to new experiences and perspectives. I’ve also improved my communication and problem-solving skills, especially since I’ve had to manage everything on my own. I even picked up a few basic Georgian phrases to get by!

One thing that surprised me about Georgia is how much people drink and how central it is to their festivals – it’s pretty different from what I’m used to back in the Middle East. The food, though, is amazing! It’s a mix of Turkish, Armenian, and Iranian flavors, and they all come together to create some truly delicious dishes.

This is actually my second country for studying abroad, so it wasn’t as much of a learning curve when it comes to living solo. Instead, I’ve learned how people, despite small differences, are so similar in how they approach life. I’ve also come to appreciate the way Georgians get things done – it’s a unique vibe.

What I really like about IBSU is the international community, the supportive professors, and the overall welcoming environment. It’s an awesome place to meet people from all over the world while getting a solid education. I don’t have a favorite spot on campus, but the new cafeteria is definitely a winner. I’ve started skipping breakfast at home because I know I can grab a healthy meal there. My classmates have been super friendly, and I’ve made some great friends. Georgians really have this casual way of welcoming people into their groups, and it makes a huge difference in how comfortable you feel living here.

interview conducted by Phaik Ramazanovi, a student intern at the Department of International Relations