Cassino, located in the Italian region of Lazio, is subordinate to the administrative center of Frosinone. The city is famous for its Abbey of Montecassino and the bloody battle that took place here during World War II, which resulted in huge losses on both sides and almost complete destruction of the settlement. Cassino is also home to the University of Cassino and Southern Lazio.
“I have been studying for a bachelor's degree in economics at the University of Cassino for two years. I am currently in Istanbul for three months on the student exchange program 'Erasmus' and will return soon. I have dreamed of studying abroad since childhood. After school, I decided to enroll in Italy, but since a 12th grade education is required for admission there, I studied sociology for a year at BGU to obtain the necessary level of education. I have always been interested in studying the cultures of other countries, which is why I chose this path. Italians and Kyrgyz have a lot in common: both love holidays and weddings, and both are often late. Italians are open and friendly, always ready to help. In general, they have a good attitude towards Kyrgyz people, although sometimes teenagers may tease, but that is insignificant,” Anara shared her impressions.
According to her, despite common opinions about Italy's weak economy, life here is much easier than in Kyrgyzstan. “In the summer, I work part-time, and the money I earn helps cover most of my expenses, which is incomparable to salaries in Bishkek. People aged 30-40 behave like young people, easily changing their places of residence for work. They are surprised when they see that a small Asian girl has such a big heart, although for us Kyrgyz, this is normal. Culturally, no one interferes in someone else's life here. I realized that if your life is interesting, then the lives of others do not concern you. Italians go to bed late and wake up late, and they are happy if they have good food and Aperol. They do not complicate their lives as we do. Despite their 'European' appearance, they are very hardworking. I remember meeting a girl and going to her village the same day to celebrate New Year with her family. If you have a Schengen visa, you can fly to Paris for 10,000 soms, and sometimes plane tickets are cheaper than bus tickets. Italy has changed my perception of travel,” she added.
Anara noted that there are many Kyrgyz and Kazakh students in her city. She has a twin sister named Janara, who studies at KGMA. “We have had different views on life since childhood, which is why she chose medicine. I also have four siblings. My older brother and sister, Samara and Samat, are already married. My mother’s name is Nurgul, and my father’s name is Tölök. I plan to complete my education, find a good job, and return to Kyrgyzstan,” she concluded.
