Exploring Thai Culture: A Filipino Student's Experience

Embarking on a journey of cultural exchange is not just about stepping into a new country, it's about immersing oneself in its rich tapestry of traditions, values, and way of life. Being in another country brings out another version of yourself — the better one.

The first thing that hits you when you step onto the streets of Thailand is the scent—a fragrant mix of sizzling street food, fresh tropical fruits, and the subtle whisper of incense from nearby shrines. It’s intoxicating, a sensory welcome to a land that thrives on vibrant traditions and heartfelt hospitality.

I am beyond grateful that I had the opportunity to participate in the Pre-Service Southeast Asia Student Teacher Exchange Program in Thailand. Experiencing independence in a foreign country is another level of adulting for me. I have realized the value of having a family to support you through thick and thin and being responsible for every decision you make. My dream to be a teacher has reached another level since teaching in a foreign country. My journey took me to Khon Kaen, a city in northeastern Thailand, where I spent a month as a cultural exchange student, teaching English to bright-eyed fourth and fifth graders. The experience was both exhilarating and humbling. Each morning, I was greeted by rows of students pressing their palms together in a respectful wai, their cheerful "Sawasdee kha/khrap" setting the tone for the day. Teaching them English was more than just a language lesson; it was a bridge between our worlds. We laughed over role plays of English conversations, played interactive games, and shared stories about our respective cultures.

What stayed with me the most, however, was the kindness of the Thai people. It was given that adjusting to another country is hard, especially with the language barrier. However, many Thai people did not make us feel that way. When we ask questions, they try their best to talk to us in English even though sometimes they are having a hard time. We survived an unfamiliar environment thanks to their generosity and help. I enjoyed my stay in Thailand thanks to the people who made us feel welcomed and loved.

Thailand is more than just a destination; it is an experience that lingers long after you’ve left. It is in the laughter of children learning a new word and the shared meal between strangers-turned-friends. It is a reminder that the world is wide, beautiful, and full of stories waiting to be lived.