I was a member of AIESEC USC so that’s how I heard about the opportunity. I also was interested in meeting other international students. I went to Samurprakarn province iand Bangkok for my project. I visited Phuket, Krabi, pattaya, and ayutthaya in Thailand with other EPs during the project and Vietnam and Cambodia after the project.
I was in a rural village so there wasn’t much to do during the week. The nature was very beautiful and it was fun to walk around and explore. Bangkok was a very fun city and we went out a lot there with the program. I visited Phuket, Krabi, pattaya, and ayutthaya in Thailand with other EPs during the project and Vietnam and Cambodia after the project. Buddhism is a big part of the local culture and that’s reflected in the clothing and local customs. I went to several ceremonies and temples.
I taught English to primary school students (1-6) 5 days a week for 6 weeks. The children and teachers were super kind and amazing to work with. The work was hard but extremely rewarding. Learning to overcome the language barrier and teach the students despite this. Also, learning to create a good relationship with the students.
I can’t say there’s one story but my favorite part of the experience was playing volleyball and soccer with the kids between classes. It was a good way to bond and they are so excited to spend time with the teachers and practice their English. I meet so many people from so many different countries. Morocco, Spain, Mexico, Colombia, France, Vietnam, Cambodia, Korea. I recommend this experience to anyone it was incredible!!!!
I usually read and sleep after work because it was very exhausting teaching all day in the heat. My room was the only one with AC and I had to share a bed with another girl EP but we had plenty of space. We wore shoes in the shower but it was relatively clean. My host family cooked for us and we ate at school and tried to give us a sampling of the local cuisine and they even made milder dishes for us.
The language and cultural barrier at first especially regarding clothing as a female. Also the heat and the conditions were tough for some EPs. I had some of the best accommodations so I was pretty comfortable. I learned how to communicate and live with people from different cultures. I also learned public speaking and leadership skills that are extremely valuable through the teaching. I’m a lot more aware of the differences between Asian countries ad cultures. I also am much more comfortable speaking in front of people and leading a large group.
This was the best experience of my life and I highly recommend it. The people in Thailand are extremely kind and the school is super excited to have you. It can be challenging but just try your best and have fun!!!!