At Delta State, the vibrant tapestry of campus life is interwoven with the stories and experiences of students from around the globe. Among them is Tamari Tateshvili, a junior majoring in Computer Science, whose journey from Georgia to the United States has been one of discovery, growth and cultural exchange.
Embracing Cultural Richness
Originally hailing from Akhaltsikhe, Georgia, Tateshvili fondly recalls the vibrant atmosphere of her hometown, where old traditions intersect with modern ideas.
Engaging in community activities, particularly leading the Akhaltsikhe GirlUp Student Club, instilled in her a sense of purpose and a passion for making a positive impact.
Navigating Cultural Contrasts and Adapting to New Realities
Tateshvili’s journey to the U.S. through the Global UGRAD Exchange Program provided her with eye-opening insights into the cultural differences between Georgia and the U.S.
She marveled at the diversity of perspectives and the celebration of individuality, contrasting with the close-knit community vibe of her homeland. These experiences underscore the importance of cross-cultural dialogue and understanding in today’s interconnected world.
Transitioning to life on campus at Delta State posed unique challenges and opportunities for Tateshvili, particularly in the male-dominated field of computer science. Through participation in the Global UGRAD exchange program and immersion in campus life, she navigated the complexities of academic rigor and cultural adaptation, emerging stronger and more resilient in her journey.
Staying Connected to Roots and Promoting Cultural Understanding
Despite the distance from her homeland, Tateshvili remains deeply connected to her Georgian roots through digital communication. Regular interactions with friends and family serve as a lifeline, grounding her in her cultural identity while navigating the experiences of life abroad.
She finds solace in reminiscing about traditional Georgian foods like Khachapuri, Lobiani, and Mtsvadi. Additionally, she longs for cherished family gatherings during celebrations like Easter, where loved ones from different cities would converge in her hometown, sharing meals and catching up on their lives.
Encountering misconceptions about Georgia since her arrival at Delta State has been a part of Tateshvili’s journey. Yet, through open dialogue and sharing her own stories, she strives to dispel stereotypes and foster cultural understanding among her peers.
For instance, Tateshvili has encountered the misconception that Georgia is a U.S. state rather than a country. Through patient explanations and conversations, she endeavors to educate her peers about the rich cultural heritage and distinct identity of her homeland.
Embracing her role as a cultural ambassador, Tateshvili has shared Georgian traditions with her peers through cultural events and informal gatherings, enriching campus life and fostering mutual respect.
As part of her efforts, she introduced her peers to Churchkhela, a traditional Georgian and Turkish sweet snack known as “Georgian Snickers” due to its resemblance to the popular candy bar.
This treat, made by threading nuts, typically walnuts or hazelnuts, onto a string and then dipping them in a grape juice and flour mixture, offered her peers a delicious taste of Georgian culture and sparked engaging conversations about its culinary traditions.
Navigating Support Systems
As Tamari Tateshvili navigates academic and social life at Delta State, she has found invaluable support through various resources, including the university’s vibrant student community. These networks have provided her with guidance, collaboration opportunities, and a platform for personal and academic development.
Additionally, Tateshvili has actively engaged with the Baptist Student Union (BSU), where she volunteers and participates in community events. Through her involvement with BSU, she not only contributes to the campus community but also
gains valuable volunteer experience and insights into the local community’s dynamics.
Words of Encouragement
Reflecting on her journey, Tateshvili offers sage advice to fellow international students:
“Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, seek out support systems, and remain open to learning from every experience.”
As Delta State continues to champion diversity and inclusion, students like Tamari Tateshvili serve as beacons of hope, bridging cultures and forging connections that transcend borders. Through their shared experiences and unwavering resilience, they embody the university’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus community.
With their unique backgrounds and perspectives, international students have the power to inspire change and promote global understanding.
