TEAN: Study Abroad in Thailand

Studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN was truly a life-changing experience that I will cherish forever. It pushed me far out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. Living in a completely different culture made me more adaptable, and it opened my eyes to the beauty of diversity. I not only gained valuable academic knowledge but also learned so much about myself and the world around me.

As a friend and daughter, I became more patient, understanding, and empathetic after interacting with people from all over the world. I learned how to embrace differences, listen more attentively, and create meaningful connections. I became a better listener, which made me appreciate the relationships I have with my friends and family even more.

This journey also sparked my love for travel. I now feel more confident and excited about exploring new places, trying new things, and immersing myself in unfamiliar environments. I now have a greater sense of independence and self-assurance that I can take with me throughout my life.

Academically, my experience in Thailand motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies. I realized the importance of education, especially when it comes to understanding the world from a global perspective. I became more focused, driven, and determined to make the most out of my academic opportunities.

Most importantly, studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand transformed me into a more worldly and open-minded individual. I came back home with a deeper understanding of global issues and the unique perspectives of people around the world. It truly changed my life in ways that go beyond what words can express, and I will forever be thankful for this incredible experience. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand – it’s an experience you will never forget.

Studying abroad in Thailand was genuinely the best decision I ever made. If you are looking for an experience completely different from what everyone else is doing...go to Thailand! Almost every single weekend I was able to travel to different places within Southeast Asia. I went to a total of six countries while I was there and it was actually so easy to travel and get around. From planes to trains to buses to ferries, all modes of transportation are so close and can take you wherever you need to go! Also, the university you attend isn't placed at the heart of the city so you have the chance to escape the busyness every once in a while! No, your apartment will not have a kitchen, but that is never a problem! First of all, it's cheaper to eat out than it is to cook in Thailand and secondly, you are a 30 second walk from a bunch of authentic food spots. All factors considered, I would recommend studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN any day!

I loved being in Thailand and having the freedom to explore nearby SouthEast Asian countries as well. Our on-site program coordinator was amazing; she basically was another friend to us! The program excursions were fun, we did a lot of activities and got a good cultural immersion experience. The location of the school was very suburban - it takes about 45 min drive to get into the city, so keep that in mind! The housing also wasn't great - i would have loved to have a kitchen to cook for myself sometimes, but the food nearby was affordable and good! Overall, so glad I did this program.

Overall, this program changed my life for the better. Having been born and raised in California, I felt like I had been living in a bubble for most of my life. Everyone falls within the middle or upper-class economic status, is heavily encouraged to go to school, and has access to plenty of career opportunities. Before going to Thailand, I was aware of how lucky and privileged I am, but being able to go abroad gave me such a vital shift in perspective. Seeing how everyone's way of life was centered around family, community, and practicality made me realize how many Americans are consumed by the desire for material excess. Overall, I really feel as though my priorities were set straight by this experience, and being able to make friends with people who come from all different backgrounds totally validated by ability to adapt and expand my horizons.

I was in Bangkok, Thailand studying abroad for my fall 2023 semester. It was such a life changing experience for me. I feel more confident in meeting new people and traveling the world. ISA and TEAN did an amazing job helping me with application process and with all the necessary documents I needed to submit. They answered any questions I had, and made sure I was well prepared before I left the United States. We did a lot of fun excursions when I got to Thailand and I had an amazing group from our program. But there were a few things I had a bit of trouble with. So one of the excursion we did was in Krabi, Thailand. We had just arrived to Bangkok, Thailand and our program director had told us we were leaving for Krabi in 2 days. I felt so unprepared and felt rushed. I wished they would've told us the dates and schedules of excursions beforehand (before we got there), so that each of us can make our travel plans accordingly. And I wished we had more support while we were in Thailand. Our onsite program director was such an amazing person, but sometimes, it's hard to reach them. Especially dealing with VISA renewal was a struggle because we had to do it on our own, more so we couldn't really rely on our onsite program director. And I also thought they would've said our campus wasn't going to be in Bangkok. It was actually in Salaya, so about 40 minutes drive from Bangkok (depending on where you're going). The other students and I from the program had thought that we were going to be studying and living in Bangkok but that was not the case. But of course, there are more pros than cons. These are just a few things I wished we were informed on. But my experience had been so positive that the pros outweigh the cons. I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN and to go to Thailand!

Studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From its vibrant culture to the warm hospitality of the locals, this city has much to offer for students seeking a unique and enriching academic adventure.

**Academic Experience:**
Bangkok boasts a diverse range of universities and institutions, each offering a variety of courses. I had the opportunity to study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), where the academic curriculum was challenging yet engaging. The faculty was knowledgeable and approachable, fostering a conducive learning environment. The international perspective embedded in the courses allowed me to broaden my understanding of global issues.

**Cultural Immersion:**
One of the highlights of studying in Bangkok is the rich cultural experience. The city seamlessly blends traditional Thai customs with modern urban living. From exploring ancient temples like Wat Arun to navigating bustling street markets, every corner of Bangkok is infused with cultural significance. Engaging with locals and participating in cultural events provided me with insights into Thai traditions and values.

**Adventure and Exploration:**
Bangkok is a city of contrasts, offering a plethora of experiences for adventure seekers. Weekends were filled with excursions to nearby islands, jungle treks, and visits to historical sites. The diverse landscapes of Thailand, from pristine beaches to lush jungles, are easily accessible, making it an ideal location for those who crave exploration and adventure.

**Culinary Delights:**
Thai cuisine is renowned globally, and being in Bangkok allowed me to indulge in its authentic flavors. From street food stalls offering pad Thai to upscale restaurants serving traditional dishes, the culinary scene was a gastronomic delight. Exploring the local markets became a regular part of my routine, introducing me to an array of exotic fruits, aromatic spices, and mouth-watering street food.

**Community and Friendships:**
The warmth and friendliness of the Thai people contribute significantly to the overall experience. Bangkok's multicultural environment fosters connections with fellow international students as well as locals. The sense of community extended beyond the campus, creating a supportive network that enhanced my time abroad.

**Logistical Considerations:**
Bangkok's efficient public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, made navigating the city convenient. Affordable living costs, coupled with a wide range of accommodation options, provided flexibility for students with varying budgets.

In conclusion, studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand, is an enriching and life-changing experience. The city's dynamic blend of academics, culture, adventure, and culinary delights creates a perfect environment for personal and academic growth. My time in Bangkok will forever be etched in my memory as a chapter of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships.

This was by far one of the greatest experiences of my life. Everything from traveling within Thailand to other countries in South East Asia was incredibly Immersive. One of the best things by far during my time in Thailand was being able to connect with the locals and other students. Everyone was so kind and open minded it really made meeting people very easy. The support system that TEAN provided truly made the transition from America to Asia seamless. Having someone with us in Thailand to be there to answer any questions or concerns was extremely valuable to have especially when needing to communicate to the locals. Overall, I have nothing bad to say about TEAN abroad and I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to see Thailand.

I loved Thailand so much, I have studied abroad multiple times, and this was my favorite place. I loved the country's beauty; the food and prices were cheap, and the culture was so beautiful. Only 15 of us were in my program, so we got to know each other very well. We also got to make friends with the further study abroad students and the Thai students, who were super friendly and wanted to hang out and make friends with you.

Our resident director, Mamiaw, was terrific. She made it feel like she wasn't only our resident director but also our friend; she would go out with us and meet up with us if we were in the city. She took time out of her say to hang out with us, and it made such a big difference because I felt more comfortable talking and asking for help.