Alumni Spotlight: Emily Most

I decided to teach abroad with TLG for several reasons. First, there are less requirements than other programs which made TLG seem more relaxed. Second, I hadn't seen many other programs in that area, Georgia was different and unique. Finally, Georgia was a country that I didn't know much about, except for its ancient history when connected with Greece. It's been fun learning more about their history.

There have been many things that have made this experience special for me, mostly having to do with the people I encounter every day. One thing which always makes me laugh is how, anytime we have a school event, the kids line up to have a picture with me. It makes me feel like a tourist attraction! Another thing I love about Georgia is how interested the people are in foreigners. Anytime I travel or go shopping or do anything, as soon as they find out I'm not Georgian, the news passes to everybody else in the area. Then they talk to me like they know me and help me find what I want and tell me all about their families.

This experience has given me time in some new countries and a new language to study. It's been very rewarding learning Georgian and it's great astonishing my students with whatever I know. This year in Georgia has given me some breathing time to think about my next step in life. I haven't decided yet, but I've had plenty of time to think about it!

One practical piece of advice I would offer is to not bring a lot of clothes. We feel like we need to wear something new every day, but Georgians don't. The teachers and students at my school wear the same thing every day. It took me only a week to conform and worry less about my clothes. And it'll lessen your baggage so you can bring more souveniers home!