Thai'd Up in Teaching

My five months teaching English in Thailand was unforgettable! I was placed in the quaint Northern Thailand Isaan city of Khon Kaen. My kilometer walk from my eight story condo to Anuban Khon Kaen School I looked forward to every morning. My "chicken on a stick" lady greeted me with a smile and an enthusiastic, "Saw-tee-kah TEACHER!" Many friendly waves and an occasional ride from families at school made this walk fun and a way to forget about the heat.
Teaching in a Thailand School was an amazing experience. Students were eager to greet me every morning and their work was always done with effort and neatness, almost like an art piece. There were many celebrations at school during my five months teaching. Waikru Day there was dancing, singing and flower giving to the teacher. The Queen's birthday was full of many magical and colorful Thai traditions. I also went on a total of four field trips that included many hours on (and off) the bus.
I formed many relationships during my time in Thailand. I became close with three other English teachers whom I traveled with on weekends to Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Nong Khai, and Koh Samet. We had similar backgrounds and dreams and experienced the Thai culture together. I am still in contact with them today. I also formed new relationships with Thai families and some of my students.
If you are thinking about going to teach in Thailand....DO IT! There will be times of frustration and sheer joy. Be open-minded, a learner and experience independence. It all makes you a better person. This experience will impact the rest of your life.