Growing Abroad

As the only native English speaker at my international school in Bangkok, I had the ability to teach English to two and three-year-olds from diverse backgrounds including Thailand, Korea, Japan, India, Nepal, America, England, Vietnam, Germany, and China. I was fortunate enough to work with a Thai co-teacher who taught me all about Thai traditions and local travel tips. Despite the language barrier, we were able to effectively communicate and joke around with each other. We created a strong bond that I will never forget.

Just know that it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times-- you're not the only one. Don't be afraid to ask for help or guidance! Moving to a foreign country can certainly have its challenging moments, but it will get easier with time and turn out to be extremely fulfilling and life-changing if you maintain a positive attitude.

Looking back on my teaching experience in Thailand, I feel as though the person leaving is no longer the person who arrived 10 months ago. I am more open, confident, adaptable, patient and understanding now than I was before. Moreover, I feel like I have made a valuable impact on the children I taught-- I am proud that I have accomplished what I set out to do.