An investigation of the problems related to socio-cultural adaptation encountered by Azerbaijani students in higher education in Turkey: Eskisehir example

The aim of the research is to examine the problems related to socio-cultural adaptation experienced by students of Azerbaijan nationality who are studying in Eskişehir. The research was conducted using qualitative research method. The study group of the research consists of a total of 20 Azerbaijani students, 14 females and 6 males, who are studying at Anadolu University, Eskishehir Technical University and Eskishehir Osmangazi University in Eskishehir in the academic year of 2020-2021. In order to collect the data, semi-structured interviews were prepared with the students who voluntarily participated in the study, and 10 open-ended questions prepared by the researcher were asked. The findings were coded by examining the content analysis, and categories and sub-categories were created. Although Azerbaijani students do not face with problems of socio-cultural adaptation that cannot be overcome in Turkey, the students are exposed to excessive smoking and smoking by women, excessive use of jargon words, food and beverage differences, food civilizations, hospitality difference and some negative prejudices and attitudes. They stated different features such as. According to the results of the study, despite some socio-cultural adaptation problems and financial difficulties due to the limitation of job opportunities, students in general stated that they were satisfied with their education in Turkey and especially in Eskishehir. It was suggested that the students expand their friendship circles in order to solve adaptation problems and overcome their homesickness, become members of international associations such as Eskishehir Azerbaijanis Association in Eskishehir, and participate in organized events. Keywords: Adaptation problems, Culture, International Students.