Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia with a population around 1.2 million. The city’s name, Tbilisi, means ‘warm’ and refers to the city’s hot springs, which remain a major cultural landmark. A modern, culturally diverse city, it is known for its interesting mix of modern industry and infrastructure super-imposed over its ancient cultural sites, Silk Road history and stunning medieval architecture. Geographically and historically, Georgia sits at the intersection between East and West, between integrated Europe and the sphere of Russian influence. Through the centuries, Tbilisi and Georgia by turns has been ruled by Ancient Rome, Persia, Arabia, the Mongols, Turks, Russia, and the Soviet Union, and now enjoys independence and political autonomy. Approximately 9% of Georgia’s population speak Russian as their first language, and a significant portion of these Russian speakers live in Tbilisi. As such, it is a fascinating place to study and practice Russian language and to learn more about political and social identity, ethnic conflict, international history and an ever-changing political landscape.
About the Program
This program, offered through Hobart and William Smith Colleges' affiliation with “SRAS” is hosted by the NovaMova Language School. Students will take classes at NovaMova with other study abroad students and with Russian and Georgian language-learners from around the world.
HWS students may enroll in either of the two program tracks offered through NovaMova which are Identity and Conflict in the Caucasus and Intensive Russian Language Studies, both of which focus on building students’ linguistic proficiency.
The Identity and Conflict Track provides extensive excursions within Georgia’s diverse landscape and to Armenia and Azerbaijan to discuss the conflicts in these states, both past and present, with local experts. Learning of the history and interests of groups involved, participants consider the governance issues that face modern multiethnic states and search for pragmatic solutions. This program provides invaluable experience for anyone interested in diplomacy or policy making.
The Intensive Russian Language Track offers courses at all levels (beginning through advanced) that focus on writing, oral expression, vocabulary, and grammar. NovaMova utilizes well-tested language immersion pedagogy that will involve students in using speaking and listening skills actively, on Russian lessons in the classroom environment and outside of it. Opportunities to volunteer, for non-credit bearing internships, and to participate in activities such as Cooking and Singing Clubs provide more options to build linguistic competency and to connect with Russian-speaking Georgians.
This program is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors in good academic and social standing who have a minimum gpa of 2.75. While more Russian language experience is preferred, all students admitted to this program must successfully complete at least two semesters of Russian language study at HWS prior to going abroad.
All students will reside in a homestay arranged by SRAS with a local Russian-speaking family who will provide two meals per day.
For the Language Immersion Track students, excursions within Georgia are offered locally to museums, sulfur springs, cultural performances and to other cities such as Kakheti, Kazbegi, Svaneti, and Batumi. Identity and Conflict Track students will participate in both short local excursions and extended excursions to Armenia and Azerbaijan. Note: In the event that any of the conflicts we are studying become active, the travel destinations and/or schedule may be adjusted accordingly.
Students will be charged standard HWS tuition and fees, room fees, 1/2 board, and a $600 administrative fee. This will cover tuition for a four-course semester, health insurance, housing, and program-related activities and excursions. Students will receive partial board (2 meals per day when in Tbilisi) and should bring about $800 to cover meals not included.
Additional expenses not covered include airfare, books/course materials, and personal expenses (laundry, entertainment, ground transportation, and independent travel). We estimate airfare for this program at $1200-$1400 from the East Coast, books and course materials at $50. It is difficult to give an accurate estimate of personal expenses because student spending habits differ considerably. We would suggest a minimum of $500-$1000 above and beyond meal expenses. However, students on a tight budget may be able to manage with less. If you are concerned about finances we strongly encourage you to talk to the CGE staff who can offer information and advice based on your specific situation.
HWS students must complete all components of the Global Education application in order to be considered for admission to this program.
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This program is offered every semester.
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All components of the application must be submitted online by the published deadline. Specific deadline dates are set each semester and typically will be in late September/early October (for Fall programs) and late February/early March (for Spring programs).
Program Handbook
IMPORTANT: The handbook(s) below is/are the most recent handbook(s) published for this program. A new version, with updated information, will be made available each semester. Program participants will receive their updated handbook approximately 2-3 months prior to their program’s start date.
HANDBOOK COMING SOON
Please DO NOT MAKE TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS until you have received final confirmation of the program start/finish dates for the specific semester you are attending. Dates included in versions of the program handbook intended for previous semesters do not necessarily apply to future programs.
NOTE: The information above is subject to change. Please see the CGE for more information.
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