Not what I expected

When I first received my placement I was a bit disappointed. Like the dozens of other applicants I had list my preferences for the south or by Bangkok. Instead, I was placed in a Nakhon Phanom, a small town in Northeast Thailand right on the border with Laos. I could not be happier with my placement. Here I was able to immerse myself fully into my role as an educator and apart of my Isan community. The unique placement allowed for a very special experience. My students, the residents and my co teachers quickly welcomed me into their tight knit family that only a small town could boast. Students quickly learned that I loved Thai food and would give me various snacks to try. Residents would see me in town and give me lifts when it was too hot for me to be walking. Or give free Hong Thong and take me to bars just after one meeting. Co teachers would literally come to my house to check in on me when sick. While I didn’t get to experience the hustle and bustle of Bangkok or the beautiful beaches, I got something much more meaningful and precious. I had a new family. I am so grateful for my placement in the Amazing Isan region.