From a Tour Guide to a Folklorist – Reina (Iran)

When I was eight years old, my father gave me a book about tourist attractions in Iran. It had a beautiful cover with an eye-catching photo of a historical site in Iran that I didn’t even know existed. Even though it was far above my eight-year-old reading level, I started to read it. That caused something to be born inside me, but I neglected its presence for ten years. But at some point, I became a tour guide which wasn’t as easy as it sounds. The more I became involved with showing people the beautiful historical sites of Iran, the more I realized the need to focus on something that cannot be seen but exists—something that shapes our identity, ideas, beliefs, and above all, our lives. This something was our traditions, language, and folklore.

It all happened like a miracle. I mean, when looking at different schools, while looking for a suitable degree, there it was, “Folkloristics and Applied Heritage Studies? In Estonia?! At the University of Tartu? Hmm… let me search a bit!” The more I looked at its details, the more I loved it. I still remember when I submitted my application. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, and pictured myself walking through the town square. Sometime later, tears streamed down my cheeks when I got the admission email.

I have decided to write my blog about the program I love and live with, “Folkloristics and Applied Heritage Studies.” The application process is really simple; you can do everything through DreamApply! And, if you are eager to study the same program, let me give you some advice, dedicate a lot of time and energy toward your motivation letter. It can change your life! This letter plays a crucial role in determining if they will accept you or not. It has some requirements, but above all, you just need to be honest and be YOU! Then there will be an interview where they will ask you some questions based on your motivation letter and interests. I thought it was very straightforward, and overall, I was shocked about how smooth the whole admissions process was.

Our program is affiliated with the UNESCO Chair on Applied Studies of Intangible Cultural Heritage. It is a relatively new program for the University of Tartu. It emphasizes cultural heritage, especially intangible heritage, which makes this program extremely fascinating. It offers a specialization in studying and applying the heritage of crafts. Speaking of Cultural heritage, our institute’s building is a historical building built in 1786. It was called Von Bock house, and now it is the cultural research institute.


The two buildings on the left are where I study, The Institute of Cultural Research

Moreover, I need to say that the professors are very knowledgeable; I can not emphasize enough how helpful they are. They care about every student, help us grow, and receive more individual attention. Thinking of my bachelor studies and sometimes comparing my bachelor professor, methods of their education, and the university above all with my short experience here in Tartu, I realized that there is a vast difference.

Our program has a certain number of tuition waivers and Dora Plus scholarships each year based on your motivation letter and interview scores. It is worth mentioning that the chance of having a scholarship is higher when the size of your group is smaller.

I took the recommended course load for my first semester, 30 ECTS. The majority of which are our General courses; One of my all-time favorite classes this semester is called “Theoretical Conceptualizations of Folklore and Cultural Heritage.” With the incredible Dr. Elo-Hanna Seljamaa, this class has shaken the foundation of my thoughts in every possible way. I came to Tartu with a minimal understanding of cultural heritage. I thought that everything was black or white when it came to some topics related to it. So far, this class has discussed many different topics, from folklore to intangible cultural heritage and UNESCO policy. It has significantly expanded my vision of what cultural heritage is.

Another course that I absolutely love is “Cultural and Religious Roots of the Middle East.” Since I am originally from Iran, I am generally well informed about my region, the Middle East, but this course has helped me to better understand this area from an outsider’s point of view. As I have mentioned before, I was working as a tour guide in Iran for several years, and I know the history of my country. Still, being in the class and learning about my own country, my culture, the religions in Iran, and the lecturer’s perspectives, was phenomenal. 

We also had a one-day trip to Viljandi, where the Culture Academy, Native Crafts Department of the University of Tartu is located. Learning about this department and all the handicrafts they were making was fascinating. Visiting Anu Raud in her gorgeous house was a great chance to know the authentic Estonian culture. I need to confess, Viljandi itself is a very magical place, especially during autumn! And, it is the city that I fell in love with, from the first second I arrived there.


Just a glimpse of the ruins of Viljandi castle during autumn

If you’re interested in Folklore and cultural heritage, I highly recommend applying for this program! Not only does it take you to a variety of different museums and cities, but more importantly, it will change you and your vision of the world.

All images belong to the author.

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