An Incredible Adventure and Challenge

I taught in Thailand for a year and it was the best! When I first got there I thought I knew what to expect. And, despite being wrong, I found my small northern village to be filled with kindness, understanding (lots of communication hiccups at the local market at first), and support from the school and community. Everyone whipped out their best body language and English to help the new teacher. Even though the foreign teachers (and local population) consisted of me and another English teacher I had a blast being immersed in a completely different culture, tackling language barriers, and working with some of the most caring students (yes, even the difficult students were kind at heart). I think the best lessons and mindset you can have (which was stressed at the OEG orientation) was that your students come first (your not JUST here to go to islands for cheap...but don't get me wrong travel is super cheap here), appreciate and get to understand their culture (this isn't America, but it is something great in a different way), and stick through those first couple months. Even though I had traveled or studied abroad the first part was challenging, but as every month passed I would looked back and laugh at the culture shock I had experienced at different times. It is called the land of smiles for a reason.

FYI Future Teachers: Baby powder does wonders for keeping bugs out of your room. Also, pick up a local kitten and your lizard/insect problems will disappear over night! Plus, it is super cheap to take your pets to the vet in Thailand. The food (especially up north) is the best in the world. I hope you like spicy, and believe it or not Pad Thai is that most boring thing on the menu. Go to Phu Chi Fah in the winter months (ask OEG staff for specifics). Oh, and when your mom packs half your bag with soap, tooth brushes, and other US products there is no need. Even my rural village had a Tesco Lotus with a ton of familiar products, similar or cheaper prices, and a Dairy Queen/KFC. But consider bringing your own toothpaste if you like a particular kind...two-three big tubes should be fine. And, most important, WEAR YOUR HELMETS when traveling by motorbike. And tell your students to wear theirs, too. With the humidity and heat your hair is never going to look so good that you can fool your self into not wearing one.

Despite any challenges that arose the staff at CIEE (stateside) and OEG (thai-side) were prompt about getting answers and results. They were all very friendly and professional. I recommend this program to anyone that is not ready to do it on their own.