Görlitz: Love at first sight
What does it feel like when, on your first stroll through a city, you know: This is where I want to stay? For trainee teacher Emma Köth, Görlitz was love at first sight. Today she lives and works in the city on the Neisse River and has begun her teaching traineeship at the Jahn School, which welcomed her with open arms. Her story shows that those who come to Görlitz often find more than expected. And sometimes, exactly what they were looking for.
A new beginning in Görlitz
Emma is originally from Aschaffenburg in Bavaria and studied special education in Leipzig. Towards the end of her studies, however, her desire for more peace and quiet and closer to nature grew stronger. Together with her boyfriend, she set off to explore Saxony, looking for potential locations for her teaching traineeship. Görlitz was their third stop – and it was an instant hit. "I knew right away: This is where I want to live and do my traineeship."
She was particularly taken with the architecture. Even today, she vividly remembers her first arrival at the train station, whose historical design deeply impressed her. During her subsequent stroll through the Gründerzeit (late 19th-century) districts, she was constantly amazed. When she finally reached the old town, she was completely smitten – her "architecture-loving heart" was racing: "I have truly rarely seen such a beautiful city as Görlitz."
Besides its visual appeal, she was also won over by the atmosphere: "You're not overwhelmed by crowds. It's relaxed, friendly – and much younger than you'd expect." The latter surprised her in particular, as Görlitz was often ridiculed as a "retirement paradise" by her former colleagues. "I can say quite clearly: That's not true! There are plenty of opportunities for young people – those who seek, will find!"
A successful start to professional life
Since February 2024, Emma has been working at the Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn School, a special education school for students with intellectual disabilities. The transition from university to everyday school life was surprisingly positive for her. She experienced tremendous appreciation from her very first day. The school administration and staff were thrilled that someone was coming to Görlitz and wanted to stay: "I received all the support I could possibly wish for right away." Whether it was mentoring, understanding of challenges, or genuine relief – she feels well supported on her path to becoming a fully qualified teacher.
An additional bonus: the so-called trainee allowance. Those who complete their teacher training in a region with a shortage of teachers and commit to staying there for another five years receive approximately €1,000 more per month. For Emma, this wasn't the main reason – but a welcome incentive to commit to a more rural area.
Why Görlitz is the right place
What makes Görlitz so special for Emma is the combination of tranquility, architecture, and activity. The city has a calming effect, especially in contrast to her previous life in Leipzig. She appreciates the sense of community, the feeling of belonging, and the less crowded atmosphere. In her free time, she enjoys strolling through the city park or along the Neisse River. Her favorite spot? Café Herzstück on Weberstrasse – for the cakes, the hot chocolate, and the ambiance. She also appreciates the region's cultural offerings – from craft markets and street festivals to nature experiences.
Emma Köth consciously chose Görlitz – and hasn't regretted it for a moment: "I was really keen to get to know the city. Görlitz gives me the feeling every day: I'm exactly where I'm meant to be."
Photo: private
