Lara, American living in Bulgaria
Hometown: Sonoma, California
Current location: Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Occupation: Freelancer
Meet Lara
Hi I’m Lara!
I come from sunny California and moved to Bulgaria four years ago when I married my cute Bulgarian husband. We met at an event happening in Sofia, Bulgaria while I was on holiday with some friends and had an instant connection.
I loved my hometown, but I was ready for a big change even before I met my hubby. So, when we started dating, there was no question where we would live. I loved Bulgaria from visiting and we both knew it was the right place for us.
I’ve found my way here being a “freelancer.” Quotation marks because that’s the best way for me to sum up all the little jobs I do in one word. But, I never have considered my identity to be my job. So, a couple fun facts: I’m a major foodie, love me a glass of vino, and before I traveled to Bulgaria six years ago, I could barely point it out on a map (hand to face).
On Education
Did you not attend college? What does your education history look like and how have you been shaped by your education outside the classroom?
I did not attend college. In fact, I did independent study for all of high school and then got my cosmetology license while still in high school. So by the time I was 17, I already had a skill and was ready to start my career doing my dream. I think doing independent study (homeschool) really gave me a chance to explore my options and do what I wanted/ saw fit for my life without the pressure from teachers and school counselors.
What is the most striking difference to you about education in the US vs. education in other countries?
In Bulgaria, the education is pretty impressive to me compared to the US. Here, every high school is focused on a different trade. For example, there are “business high schools,” “tourism high schools,” “fashion design high schools,” etc.
This gives them a good opportunity to have a skill before going on to college as well as deciding what their passion really is.
Also, everyone learns a second language from elementary school. Something America should really implement!
What advice would you give someone who isn’t interested in attending a traditional college or university, but knows they want to travel?
I would say that’s great! I didn’t attend a traditional college or university and I’ve been able to travel without study abroad programs, etc. I know some who do attend university and end up neck high in debt and never even use their degree and then can’t afford the travel they wanted.
I say do what makes you happy. If that’s college, great! If that’s not going to college and exploring the world, great! An education isn’t just a classroom setting.
What, in your opinion, are three of the most useful languages someone can learn? Why?
I think this answer definitely depends on where you live. English, no matter where you are, is valuable to know. After that, as an American in Europe, I would say German is worth learning. I see many job opportunities available in Germany or with German language.
Even in Bulgaria, many products come from Germany and sometimes aren’t even translated into Bulgarian or English so I have to use google translate for German.
The third language I would say is useful is Spanish. If you know Spanish, you can sort of understand Italian, Portuguese and other romance languages.
Professional Background
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love the flexibility it gives me. Being a freelancer can be a real hustle and it seems to be a “when it rains, it pours” situation. That being said, I can take it with me anywhere and take off time when I want – and that is priceless.
A lot of expats find themselves doing something different from what they studied. Have you found this to be true in your experience and if so, what are your thoughts about that disparity?
I was a hairstylist for 10 years before moving to Bulgaria. It was my dream job and I truly loved it. I might have been able to continue it in Bulgaria, but I didn’t know the language when I first came, few people speak English here, and the prices of hair services are not enough to make a good living.
Sometimes, I mourn the loss of doing hair, but it has also caused me to reinvent myself and become the freelancer that I am.
Plus, I still get to do friends’ hair on the side.
On Lifestyle
Would you ever relocate to live outside of the US indefinitely? Where?
Yes, I already have. My move to Bulgaria was never meant to be temporary.
Do you speak a second language? More than one other language?
I do! I speak English, Bulgarian and fairly good Spanish. I would love to learn Russian as it also has Slavic roots similar to Bulgarian and I love how it sounds. Maybe one day.
One last question
What advice would you give to someone who knows they want to travel but aren’t sure where that fits in with the rest of their lives?
Circumstances surely aren’t ideal for everyone and sometimes cannot be changed.
However, sometimes we think it’s not within our ability when really, we just have to re-evaluate our priorities.
Maybe you could simplify your life to save money? Is that job of yours bringing you joy? If not, why not think about changing things up and taking up something that allows you more freedom?
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Editor’s note: This interview has been lightly edited
Thank you for reading Fearless Friday No. 27 – Lara, American Living in Bulgaria!
If you connected with Lara’s feature, are curious about life in Bulgaria, will be an American living in Bulgaria soon yourself, or simply want to know more about this charming country rich in history and culture, she invites you to connect on the following platform.
(Additional editor’s note for readers who might not be familiar with the geography in that region, Bulgaria is a Balkan country bordered by FIVE other countries, with the Black Sea to the East. I recently listened to a great podcast episode that taught me a little bit about this country and region of the world – so fascinating!)
Instagram: @sonomatosofia
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