The Mother of All Education Abroad Experiences

The five months I spent living in Thailand were the most amazing, action packed months of my life! I wouldn't trade it for the world. From helping me get my visa to booking me a hotel for a lengthy layover The Education Abroad staff had my back before I even touched down in Chiang Mai. We were given all (if not more) of the immersion usually only found in direct exchange programs on top of included excursions and on site directors who were always there when we needed them-- but had absolute independence when we didn't. I got to experience the awe inspiring Yi Peng lantern festival, feed Asian elephants, and explore Thailand's captivating southern islands. But if someone was to ask me what was hands down my favorite part of this experience-- I would have to say my roommate. TEAN matches each of their students with a local roommate which really shaped my time abroad. She honestly became my sister, my best friend. She and her family were always having me over to their home and would frequently take me out to dinner or to festivals. She introduced me to her friends and helped me experience the real Chaing Mai. One of my favorite memories was driving up to the top of Mt. Doi Suthep with her and standing there mouth agape as we looked over the whole city, lit up like stars that night. Integrating into the Thai community can be difficult, but The Education Abroad Network made it easy; I made Thai friends that I know I will have for life.