What inspired you to go abroad?
Getting a TESOL Certificate and realizing the fact I can do more, achieve, share more. Realizing the chance—and challenge—to live and work in a totally new environment. Finally, being aware of my childhood dreams of traveling overseas!
Bang Chalong area
Why did you choose MediaKids?
I was pleased by the fact that Laila from MediaKids contacted me swiftly after I had applied for the teaching position. She was very kind and friendly during the interview—and she continued to be kind anf friendly ever since. I instantly felt I should try it out and take this chance.
What was your favorite part about Thailand?
I liked Thai cheerfulness, politeness. and ability to make a feast on any occasion. I loved that there were lots of fruits of all kinds—yummy! At first, Bangkok was like any other metropolis for me - noisy, tiresome, and exhaustive; but after some time, especially after having found some friends, it became "home". I miss Bangkok a lot at times.
What made your experience abroad unique?
There are not many people from my country who come to Thailand as English teachers. It was my first time living far from home for a longer period. I was alone, and it was a tough challenge with some things at first. But I'm so thankful for this lifetime experience! Besides, I had a chance to meet some very nice people—both Thai and international teachers.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
They were supportive and helpful, despite being a bit shy, especially in my second school. I've got very sweet memories about teaching at Nawamin school and communicating with the local staff.
View from the window at Nawamin school, Bang Sau Thong
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I wish I would have traveled around more on the weekends to get to know the area and experience more of Thailand.
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
7:00 a.m. or a bit earlier - getting up; light breakfast 7:25a.m. - rushing from the apartment; 7:30 a.m. - Sawadi Krup! at school; assembly and so on 8:10 a.m. - 3:40 p.m. - scheduled classes, preparing for classes, working on the lesson plans, chatting with the colleagues, having a lunch, walking around the school yard, surfing Facebook, napping with my head on my backpack—it sometimes had to happen!—4:00 p.m. - going home and to the local market.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoyed chatting with my family and friends; walking around the area - especially in Bang Chalong; going to Mega Bangna; going to Bangkok; on Sundays - attending Evangelical Church of Bangkok—I just adored this place!
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
I had a common room with a balcony. I'm thankful for having had it.
Mekong river, Nong Khai
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
Courtesy and politeness are the utmost crucial things!
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
It has impacted my life greatly. To sum it up and to make the whole story short, this experience has broadened my world-view; helped to get to know myself better - having exposed both my strengths and weaknesses; taught me to be more thankful; and encouraged me to move forward in my life.
Would you recommend MediaKids to others? Why?
Yes, I definitely would. I had a great experience.
In Bangkok Chinatown with the fellow teachers from Poolcharoen school
What was the hardest part about teaching abroad?
The hardest part was being alone, especially in the beginning, and on weekends. Also, concerning Thailand, it was pretty tough to get used to the unknown smells.
What surprised you most about Thailand?
I didn't think there could higher prices for branded clothing than in my home country—but in Thailand they turned out to be extremely expensive. I couldn't find small flag of Thailand anywhere to bring it home—I didn't know it's just forbidden. But most of the surprises were the pleasant ones, and they're about lovely Thai people!
What is one thing you wish you would have known before teaching abroad in Thailand?
Well, I wish I would have brought more small gifts—souvenirs, sweets, etc.—practically all Thai people I met were so lovely and helpful. I wish I could have given all of them a little something because they really deserve it!
If you could teach abroad again, where would you go?
Well, I'm rather open to various options. For instance, I'd like to cross the Atlantic ocean to discover Latin America a bit. But there is one country that fascinates me in a special way, where I wish I could stay for a longer period—Portugal!
