Can you introduce yourself briefly and tell us a little about your background?
Hi! I'm Aiturgan Nurdinova, currently serving as a Kyrgyz Language Instructor at IU and I’m from Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan. I graduated from two esteemed institutions in my country: "Sapat" International School and Kyrgyzstan-Turkey Manas University, where I obtained both my BA and MA in English Language and Literature.
My teaching career began in 2016 with short internships at universities in Kyrgyzstan and Turkey. In the early stage of my career I made my significant contribution in establishing a language school from scratch, and in my most recent role, I served as the head of the English language department at Jalal-Abad Z. Nurmatova Cambridge International School. One of the most rewarding moments in my career happened just recently when my student has been announced the winner of the National English Language Olympiad in Kyrgyzstan.
I am a language enthusiast and besides the 4 languages of instruction as English, Russian, Kyrgyz and Turkish both at school and university I graduated from, I am familiar with many other Turkic languages. For me, the department of Central Eurasian Studies is an ideal environment, where multilingualism thrives. They all speak at least 3 languages here!
I'm here on a Fulbright mission as a cultural ambassador. It's a program sponsored by the US Department of State. I'm honored to represent my country and teach Kyrgyz. I am also overjoyed to share that one of my students from Kyrgyzstan is also representing our country through the FLEX program. She currently studies at a high school in Iowa and has been doing a great job!
In moments like these, I am reminded of the profound truth that the world is interconnected, and language serves as a unifying force that transcends boundaries.
How many sections of Kyrgyz language are you teaching and how many students do you have?
I teach introductory and intermediate Kyrgyz to groups consisting of one student each. Initially, I had one additional student in the introductory level. However, in January of this year, she departed for Kyrgyzstan to embark on her Peace Corps mission!
Why should students learn Kyrgyz?
Kyrgyzstan, the most visited Central Asian country of 2023, offers an untouched land ripe for exploration. Its rich tapestry of history, culture and life is sure to captivate any traveler. Learning Kyrgyz opens doors to understanding this vibrant nation on a deeper level.
As one of the oldest Turkic languages, Kyrgyz serves as a foundation for many others in the region. By mastering Kyrgyz, you not only delve into the heart of Kyrgyzstan but also gain insights into a broader linguistic family, facilitating comprehension of other Turkic languages.
In essence, learning Kyrgyz is a gateway to unlocking the treasures of Kyrgyzstan and the wider Turkic linguistic heritage, enriching your cultural experiences and broadening your horizons.
What classes are you taking here at IU, which one do you like the most, and why? What is different about taking classes in the US?
At IU, I'm currently enrolled in several courses, each offering its own unique insights and experiences. Among them, Teaching Less Commonly Taught Languages and Global Narratives: Diversity and Multiculturalism in the US are my compulsory courses. Additionally, for my selectives, I opted for Teaching English for Academic Purpose by Assoc. Prof. Debra Ann Friedman and Teaching Area Studies by Assoc.Prof. Gardner Bovingdon.
What truly sets these courses apart for me is not only my genuine interest in the subject matter but also the exemplary teaching styles of the above mentioned professors. I prioritize method of instruction over content itself. I'm thoroughly impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm demonstrated by these professors in their teaching approach. Their professionalism, work ethics, and ability to inspire not only me but also fellow educators are commendable. I've gained invaluable insights and skills from their classes.
As for the differences in taking classes in the US, one notable aspect is the heavy emphasis on readings and essay writing. Students are expected to engage in extensive reading assignments and produce numerous essays, which significantly enriches the learning experience while also demanding a high level of academic rigor.
Is this your first time visiting the United States? If so, what are your thoughts?
It's actually my second visit to the US. My first trip was in 2022 for a business trip. During that time, I supervised high school students from Kyrgyzstan on their university tour, where we visited the IVY League universities such as Harvard, MIT and others as UCF, Valencia College, and Rollins College.
Interestingly, during that initial trip, I hadn't even applied for the Fulbright Program. Little did I know that exactly a year later, I would receive a letter from IU proposing to collaborate for the 2023-2024 academic year!
Is there anything you miss from Kyrgyzstan that you have not been able to find here?
It's mostly food for me, but as I enjoy cooking, I've been baking my own Kyrgyz nan (bread), paloo and other national dishes. However, there's tandoor samsa and smoked sausage that I can't make here. So I miss them too. You see how particular I am about food, it's because I love eating! I love sharing food too. I've made so many nans and samsas and shared with my students, friends, and the faculty.
What is your favorite thing to do at IU so far (when you're not teaching or taking class)?
I love how IU organizes a wide range of conferences, workshops, and talks. They always invite specialists, and we get to learn new things from the experts. I live in the campus apartments, and there are frequent giveaways of tickets to movies, live orchestra concerts, and musicals for residents. I went to see E.T. with live orchestra music, attended the "Onegin" opera, and was amazed by the performers. The last one I saw was Shrek the Musical, and the cast did an incredible job!
Is there anything you would like our readers to know about Kyrgyzstan?
Here are some interesting facts about Kyrgyzstan that might catch your attention:
- Walnut Forest: Jalal-Abad boasts the world's largest walnut forest, believed to have been visited by Alexander the Great who later spread these nuts across the globe.
- Ysyk-Kul Lake: As the second-largest mountain lake globally and it never freezes due to its salinity. It's referred to as "the eye of the earth" by astronauts.
- World Nomad Games: In 2014, Kyrgyzstan proudly hosted the inaugural World Nomad Games, celebrating the rich nomadic heritage that's deeply embedded in the country's culture.
- Wrestling Champions: Kyrgyzstan has produced renowned wrestling champions like Aisuluu Tynybekova, Akjol Makhmudov, Meerim Jumanazarova, and Joloman Sharshenbekov, showcasing the nation's prowess in this traditional sport.
- Chyngyz Aitmatov: This esteemed Kyrgyz author's literary contributions have left an indelible mark not only on Kyrgyz literature but also on world literature, earning him international acclaim.
- Epic of Manas: As the longest epic poem globally, the Epic of Manas comprises a staggering 553,500 lines, weaving tales of heroism and valor that are deeply ingrained in Kyrgyz culture.
- Snow Leopards: These majestic creatures are native to Kyrgyzstan, symbolizing the country's rich biodiversity and serving as a testament to its commitment to wildlife conservation.
- Multilingual Society: In addition to Kyrgyz, Russian is widely spoken in Kyrgyzstan, reflecting its multicultural heritage and the influence of its Soviet past.
- Roza Otunbayeva: Notably, Roza Otunbayeva made history as the first female president in Central Asia, breaking barriers and paving the way for gender equality in the region.
- Ancestral Heritage: In Kyrgyz tradition, it's customary for men to trace their ancestry back seven generations, emphasizing the importance of familial connections and heritage.
Do you think learning the Kyrgyz language is difficult for a native English speaker?
Learning Kyrgyz can indeed pose some challenges for native English speakers due to differences in structure, vowel harmony, and the use of the Cyrillic script. However, despite these obstacles, there's an intriguing similarity between Kyrgyz and English when it comes to tenses. This similarity often makes complex explanations much more concise, which can be a relief for both teachers and students. By recognizing this common ground in language structure, learners can approach Kyrgyz with greater confidence and ease, enhancing their overall learning experience.
Do you have any advice for learning languages from your own experience?
Learning languages is like embarking on an exciting journey where immersion plays a crucial role. Take my experience, for instance: growing up in a Kyrgyz-speaking household, I found myself navigating Russian at school, gradually thriving in the new linguistic environment. Moving to an international school introduced me to English, while Turkish became familiar through daily interactions. Uzbek? Well, that came from a childhood love of TV series dubbed in that language.
My approach mirrored that of a child: absorbing, listening, and gradually speaking. I learned to be patient, allowing myself time to progress step by step. My advice? Embrace the journey, immerse yourself, and be kind to yourself along the way. Learning a language is a rewarding adventure filled with growth and discovery. You've got this!
What is a fun or interesting phrase in Kyrgyz that you want our readers to know?
"Oozuna mai" (ooz: mouth, mai: butter) literally means "butter in your mouth." This phrase is used when your conversation partner supports and wishes for what you've said to come true. For example:
Daughter: "I will get 100 points on my final exam tomorrow!"
Father: "Oozuna mai, my dear. May all your dreams come true!"
On the flip side, "Oozuna tash" (ooz: mouth, tash: stone) literally means "a stone in your mouth." This phrase is the opposite of "Oozuna mai" and is used to express a wish to prevent something undesirable from happening. For instance:
Son: "Mom, what if I lose my passport abroad?"
Mom: "Oozuna tash! Don’t even imagine such terrible situations!"
These phrases add color and cultural depth to conversations in Kyrgyz, offering expressions of support and caution in everyday interactions.