Chinese Language Study Abroad Programs in Bangkok, Thailand

Studying in Barcelona had been a dream! I took classes in Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation, and Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. My 7 weeks in that paradise were filled with exploration, inspiration, and so much fun. From amazing people to the delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture to the colorful culture, Spain should be at the top of the must-visit countries list. My favorite activity, besides spending my day at the beach, was wandering around the city without a map and being amazed by the beauty hidden in every corner of Barcelona. Thanks to the Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage class, I learned even more about this impressive history and culture. CIS helped me through every step of adapting to studying and living in Barcelona. They planned fun events for us, such as various tours in famous parts of Barcelona, beach picnic and volleyball, wine tasting, tours to towns in Spain, and cooking classes. I stayed at Aparto Pallars, which is conveniently located near the metro station, from which you can take the metro anywhere. I'm so grateful for this experience, and I'm definitely willing to go back to Barcelona or any other program with CIS!

Studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN was truly a life-changing experience that I will cherish forever. It pushed me far out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. Living in a completely different culture made me more adaptable, and it opened my eyes to the beauty of diversity. I not only gained valuable academic knowledge but also learned so much about myself and the world around me. As a friend and daughter, I became more patient, understanding, and empathetic after interacting with people from all over the world. I learned how to embrace differences, listen more attentively, and create meaningful connections. I became a better listener, which made me appreciate the relationships I have with my friends and family even more. This journey also sparked my love for travel. I now feel more confident and excited about exploring new places, trying new things, and immersing myself in unfamiliar environments. I now have a greater sense of independence and self-assurance that I can take with me throughout my life. Academically, my experience in Thailand motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies. I realized the importance of education, especially when it comes to understanding the world from a global perspective. I became more focused, driven, and determined to make the most out of my academic opportunities. Most importantly, studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand transformed me into a more worldly and open-minded individual. I came back home with a deeper understanding of global issues and the unique perspectives of people around the world. It truly changed my life in ways that go beyond what words can express, and I will forever be thankful for this incredible experience. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand – it’s an experience you will never forget.

Studying abroad in Thailand was genuinely the best decision I ever made. If you are looking for an experience completely different from what everyone else is doing...go to Thailand! Almost every single weekend I was able to travel to different places within Southeast Asia. I went to a total of six countries while I was there and it was actually so easy to travel and get around. From planes to trains to buses to ferries, all modes of transportation are so close and can take you wherever you need to go! Also, the university you attend isn't placed at the heart of the city so you have the chance to escape the busyness every once in a while! No, your apartment will not have a kitchen, but that is never a problem! First of all, it's cheaper to eat out than it is to cook in Thailand and secondly, you are a 30 second walk from a bunch of authentic food spots. All factors considered, I would recommend studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN any day!

I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad with CIS Abroad in Thailand during the fall of 2024, and I can confidently say that it was an experience of a lifetime. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to broaden their horizons. The on-site staff were exceptional, offering unwavering support throughout the entire journey. Their dedication truly made a difference. The cultural richness of Thailand is something I’ll never forget. Thanks to CIS Abroad, I was able to explore countless temples, enjoy local cuisine, and visit beautiful islands and vibrant cities. One of the program’s standout features is its encouragement for students to travel and immerse themselves in new experiences. The staff not only helped prepare us for academics but also ensured we felt confident navigating the country independently. This experience reshaped my perspective on the world. I had the privilege of meeting people from diverse backgrounds, which allowed me to learn and grow in ways I never expected. I also gained a sense of confidence that I didn’t know I needed, thriving in an unfamiliar environment where communication was often challenging due to language barriers. CIS Abroad goes above and beyond to support its students. From teaching about local culture to offering academic assistance (specific to Thailand), they foster an environment of growth and opportunity. Their consistent communication throughout the semester was invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend CIS Abroad. It’s more than just an academic program—it’s a transformative experience that will empower you to truly live your best life while exploring the world.

I love studying in South Korea! It was a bit of a culture shock when I arrived as this trip was a lot of firsts for me, like my first plane ride, time in an airport, and trip outside the country! The sunrises are beautiful, and the Cherry Blossom season is one of a kind. As a picky eater, Korea helped me find more foods to try and experiences I liked. If I had to do something different, I would travel more independently and get lost through exploring. The biggest advice I have is to give it a fair shot and do it. There will be moments when you'll get frustrated with not knowing what to expect, but take those in stride and be patient with yourself.

Overall, this program changed my life for the better. Having been born and raised in California, I felt like I had been living in a bubble for most of my life. Everyone falls within the middle or upper-class economic status, is heavily encouraged to go to school, and has access to plenty of career opportunities. Before going to Thailand, I was aware of how lucky and privileged I am, but being able to go abroad gave me such a vital shift in perspective. Seeing how everyone's way of life was centered around family, community, and practicality made me realize how many Americans are consumed by the desire for material excess. Overall, I really feel as though my priorities were set straight by this experience, and being able to make friends with people who come from all different backgrounds totally validated by ability to adapt and expand my horizons.

I was in Bangkok, Thailand studying abroad for my fall 2023 semester. It was such a life changing experience for me. I feel more confident in meeting new people and traveling the world. ISA and TEAN did an amazing job helping me with application process and with all the necessary documents I needed to submit. They answered any questions I had, and made sure I was well prepared before I left the United States. We did a lot of fun excursions when I got to Thailand and I had an amazing group from our program. But there were a few things I had a bit of trouble with. So one of the excursion we did was in Krabi, Thailand. We had just arrived to Bangkok, Thailand and our program director had told us we were leaving for Krabi in 2 days. I felt so unprepared and felt rushed. I wished they would've told us the dates and schedules of excursions beforehand (before we got there), so that each of us can make our travel plans accordingly. And I wished we had more support while we were in Thailand. Our onsite program director was such an amazing person, but sometimes, it's hard to reach them. Especially dealing with VISA renewal was a struggle because we had to do it on our own, more so we couldn't really rely on our onsite program director. And I also thought they would've said our campus wasn't going to be in Bangkok. It was actually in Salaya, so about 40 minutes drive from Bangkok (depending on where you're going). The other students and I from the program had thought that we were going to be studying and living in Bangkok but that was not the case. But of course, there are more pros than cons. These are just a few things I wished we were informed on. But my experience had been so positive that the pros outweigh the cons. I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN and to go to Thailand!

Studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From its vibrant culture to the warm hospitality of the locals, this city has much to offer for students seeking a unique and enriching academic adventure. **Academic Experience:** Bangkok boasts a diverse range of universities and institutions, each offering a variety of courses. I had the opportunity to study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), where the academic curriculum was challenging yet engaging. The faculty was knowledgeable and approachable, fostering a conducive learning environment. The international perspective embedded in the courses allowed me to broaden my understanding of global issues. **Cultural Immersion:** One of the highlights of studying in Bangkok is the rich cultural experience. The city seamlessly blends traditional Thai customs with modern urban living. From exploring ancient temples like Wat Arun to navigating bustling street markets, every corner of Bangkok is infused with cultural significance. Engaging with locals and participating in cultural events provided me with insights into Thai traditions and values. **Adventure and Exploration:** Bangkok is a city of contrasts, offering a plethora of experiences for adventure seekers. Weekends were filled with excursions to nearby islands, jungle treks, and visits to historical sites. The diverse landscapes of Thailand, from pristine beaches to lush jungles, are easily accessible, making it an ideal location for those who crave exploration and adventure. **Culinary Delights:** Thai cuisine is renowned globally, and being in Bangkok allowed me to indulge in its authentic flavors. From street food stalls offering pad Thai to upscale restaurants serving traditional dishes, the culinary scene was a gastronomic delight. Exploring the local markets became a regular part of my routine, introducing me to an array of exotic fruits, aromatic spices, and mouth-watering street food. **Community and Friendships:** The warmth and friendliness of the Thai people contribute significantly to the overall experience. Bangkok's multicultural environment fosters connections with fellow international students as well as locals. The sense of community extended beyond the campus, creating a supportive network that enhanced my time abroad. **Logistical Considerations:** Bangkok's efficient public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, made navigating the city convenient. Affordable living costs, coupled with a wide range of accommodation options, provided flexibility for students with varying budgets. In conclusion, studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand, is an enriching and life-changing experience. The city's dynamic blend of academics, culture, adventure, and culinary delights creates a perfect environment for personal and academic growth. My time in Bangkok will forever be etched in my memory as a chapter of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships.

Coming back to America and fully reflecting on my time abroad I can safely say that this journey has been nothing short of amazing. One of the biggest things I have learned coming back home is that no matter how many pictures or stories I show/tell to my loved ones they will never fully grasp the things I experienced. In order to give a better understanding to those still deciding to travel abroad I wanted to give my honest review so that the decision will be that much easier. For this review I will break it down into three different categories which I have deemed most relevant. First I want to talk about the community and social aspect abroad, Second I will go through what university life was like, and finally I will talk about the cultural side of Thailand. Community and Social Life: Coming to a foreign country like Thailand for the first time there was a lot of anxiety that I felt before I arrived. I worried that I may not make friends, people would not be inclusive, and even feared others may not even like me. However upon arrival all of these fears would be put to rest. The first day I landed I was immediately greeted by those in my TEAN abroad program and everyone was so kind. I met my roommate for the first time and we ended up bonding over sports and video games. The next few days I acquainted myself with the other students from TEAN as we imminently embarked on an included excursion to the province of Krabi for a 5 day trip. This ended up being one of my favorite parts of the experience because it allowed our entire program to get close with one another. We went Kayaking, learned about mangroves, and went on many hikes together. Ultimately this taught me some valuable lessons. The most impactful thing to me was to push outside my comfort zone. There were many times that I did not feel comfortable, like starting a conversation with a random Thai person or jumping off the side of a waterfall. Both of which proved to be so much fun. Throughout the trip I had met so many amazing people that joined me on countless journey’s. One thing became very apparent to me, Thailand is not the most common place to go abroad but there is something about a lot of the students that choose it as a location. They seem so accepting and open which is something that I believe almost everyone has in common. University Experience: The University I Attended was Mahidol University International College. In terms of the campus itself Mahidol was beautiful. It was an extremely large campus however my classes were only in two different buildings that were right next to each other so the walking was fairly easy. There was a brand new main building that had multiple floors and used an eco-friendly architecture that allowed the rain water to fall directly onto the vegetation that surrounded the inside of the complex. The classes were all taught in English which was nice as an American student and many of the teachers and students were super friendly. Something to keep in mind is that in Thailand a large percentage of each grade is reliant upon exams which is a little different than in the states. Overall I really liked the campus and the clubs and community provide a lot of fun activities and events. Cultural Side: In terms of immersion Thailand exceeded my expectations entirely. The food was absolutely incredible. Some of my favorite dishes were pad see ew, pad thai, and green curry. The temples were breathtaking as well. I got to see the king’s palace, sleeping buddha, and the gorgeous white temple which was nothing like i have seen before. There was so much to explore as Thailand had so much to offer. I think that one of the best things about the country is how diverse each experience can be. You can go to the bustling city of Bangkok and try some street food or you can go to the beaches in the south and enjoy relaxing time. The possibilities are seemingly endless. The last thing I wanted to bring up about the culture of Thailand would be the Thai people. Without a doubt the locals were the most friendly people I have ever met. They are always willing to help out foreigners and they are so generous and considerate with everything they do. I remember one time I was trying to get off at a certain stop and one of the Thai people without even asking assisted me and talked to the driver. They call it the land of smiles for a reason and everyone is seemingly so content and happy. Throughout this journey it has taught me a valuable lesson of being happy no matter where I am in life. In America so many people are focused on getting somewhere they are not or getting things they don't have that sometimes we forget to be grateful for what we already possess. This was a very eye opening realization for me and truly encapsulated my time abroad. Although my experience was amazing I know that for some people it can be different. Some things I would recommend before coming abroad to Thailand to maximize the experience would be to have an open mind, live in the moment, and push your comfort zone. If you can be someone that can try these three things the possibilities will be limitless. In conclusion this four month journey has not only provided me with the best experience of my life but has also taught me lessons I will remember for years to come. I highly recommend TEAN abroad and this program for whoever is interested in it as it provides such a good support system especially for those who have never been outside the country. I push anyone who is considering going out of the country after reading this to give Thailand a chance because they won’t regret it.

Studying in Mahidol University International College in Salaya, Thailand through TEAN was truly a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The program provides you with a view of the country that foreigners rarely otherwise scratch the surface of, since you study in the suburbs, conduct activities in the city, and complete orientation and a final trip in the rural north and south of the country. The TEAN program provides enough structure so that you are prepared for the adjustment and have a built-in support network, but leaves you with enough free time to follow your own travel and extracurricular interests. Having a program director who lived in Bangkok also greatly eased the transition, and made searching for medical care, etc. much easier for my few friends who needed those services. I really, truly believe studying in Thailand was the best choice I've ever made.

My experience studying abroad in Thailand was one of the craziest adventures in my life. I had some of the highest highs being able to travel all over Southeast Asia, meeting amazing people, and learning more about the world. I also had some of the hardest moments missing home, adjusting to a completely different culture, and figuring out a new school environment, however even these experiences taught me so much, and every moment made me realize how much I was capable of. My favorite aspect of this trip was being able to see so much of the world, and the moments I had where I knew I would never forget them. I also loved how much guidance we had and trips that were all planned, and a big part of what made this trip possible for me was how affordable thailand is!

Studying abroad in Thailand has completely changed my life. It made me want to explore the world more, and got me out of my comfort zone. I've always had a fear of traveling alone, and always thinking of what could go wrong. But this experience made me realized that those fears are all in my head. When traveling, not everything will go according to your itinerary. But those are what makes exploring fun, because you just have to accept the flaws and go with the flow. That's what adventures are all about, to be flexible. Studying abroad also made me more confident in myself and I was able to put myself out there more. I got the chance to make international friends from all around the world. It's an absolutely amazing experience.

I was hesitant to study abroad for the first time and CIS Abroad exceeded my expectations. CIS Abroad is there to make all steps in your study abroad journey as seamless as possible. The application process is simple and straightforward, and if you have any questions they are always there to help and respond quickly. During the pre-departure meetings, and onsite orientation I knew that I was going to be okay, and this was going to be a journey I would never forget. Arriving in Florence with CIS Abroad, they truly made you feel at home, and the onsite directors were so friendly towards all of us. Without CIS Abroad there to help, my journey would not been of amazing as it was.

Studying abroad in Tokyo, Japan for a month was the most amazing time of my life. I was quite anxious to go to Japan especially since it was going to be my first time leaving the US and flying by myself, however, I received incredible and immense support from the on-site program directors. Being immersed in Japanese culture through program activities like kimono wearing, calligraphy, tea ceremony, and just interacting with locals overall was wonderful. I was able to make friendships with some Japanese students which was so nice because they showed me beautiful places and foods to try. Not only did I make become friends with Japanese students, I also became close with the other study abroad students so I often went out to explore and have tons of fun with them everyday. Waking up everyday in Japan brought so much excitement because there is so much to see and do so I NEVER felt bored. As for Seisen University, the campus I attended in Tokyo, was beautiful and quiet. It was only a short train ride and walk away from my accommodation, so maybe a 20 minute commute. However, it is on a hill so it was quite a workout to walk to campus from the train station especially with the really hot and humid weather during the summer months. Then, the teachers were great! They were really interactive, entertaining, and passionate about what they were teaching. Since it was a summer program that only lasted a month, the courses were very fast paced especially the Japanese language courses. Also, the Japanese students were super friendly and kind and I always enjoyed talking to them and eating lunch with them. It was truly fascinating learning from them and I learning from them about our lives. Overall, I definitely recommend studying abroad with Cis abroad and choosing one of their Japan programs. It was a decision that I was highly doubting before I went but after experiencing it, I have no regrets at all and am very grateful for it. It is an opportunity that I wish everyone to experience.

I loved Thailand so much, I have studied abroad multiple times, and this was my favorite place. I loved the country's beauty; the food and prices were cheap, and the culture was so beautiful. Only 15 of us were in my program, so we got to know each other very well. We also got to make friends with the further study abroad students and the Thai students, who were super friendly and wanted to hang out and make friends with you. Our resident director, Mamiaw, was terrific. She made it feel like she wasn't only our resident director but also our friend; she would go out with us and meet up with us if we were in the city. She took time out of her say to hang out with us, and it made such a big difference because I felt more comfortable talking and asking for help.

The School for International Studies through CIS abroad was the most perfect program for me. The program is three months long which is a little shorter than most programs however it is great for someone who is on trimesters, is nervous about getting homesick, or like myself- wants to travel for a while before their summer job starts. The academic coursework was challenging in a way that was incredibly rewarding. The professors don't give you hours of studying and homework to do because they understand that you are there to travel just as much as you are to take classes. I took several classes on the history of Spain and Barcelona and I learned more than I have from any professor or school because after learning about things like Gaudi's style of architecture we went out into the city and got a first hand experience by seeing things like casa batllo. My professors were so engaging, entertaining, and helpful, I still keep in contact with many of them today. They helped me to learn the rich and diverse history and context of the city I was living in. The CIS staff on sight at SIS was incredibly helpful in getting students involved in the Catalan culture and making us feel comfortable. It can be frustrating trying to get a hold of them before you go abroad for questions but as soon as you step foot in Barcelona the staff is ready to help out any time of the day. Whether it is a safety concern, you are sick and don't know where to go, or you are struggling in your classes the staff at CIS can help put you on the right track. The trips and activities (which are included in the cost of your tuition) are absolutely amazing and everything is paid for. My semester we went on two overnight trips, Sevilla and Zaragoza, where the food, accommodations, and planned activities were all paid for. We also went to the Dali museum, took a cooking class, and went out to dinner with our CIS mentor- all completely paid for by the initial cost of your program. This was absolutely amazing, especially for someone who wanted to experience Spain on a tight budget. As far as housing, I stayed in a shared room/ shared apartment with American students from other programs. This gave me the opportunity to get to know people outside of just the school I was studying at. The apartment I stayed in was in an amazing location and we had everything we needed (washing machine, dishes, bedding, towels). Our apartment was very close to a metro stop however most days I walked about 15 minutes to class to get to know my way around the city better. The CIS on site coordinators were available 24/7 through a cell phone in case of any emergency. I never felt unsafe in my apartment or walking around the city. I also purchased the international health insurance both through my home university and through CIS. I never thought I would need it but when I got sick while traveling outside of Spain, I was happy that I had insurance. The appointments, tests, and medication I received were completely free of charge and I visited a private travelers clinic where they spoke english and I had absolutely no wait time. Overall I think the CIS School for International Studies program in Barcelona is amazing for anyone who wants to travel a ton and get the most out of what you pay for. The only suggestion I would make is that about 2-3 times throughout the semester we had class on Friday. I had wished that our overnight trips were on the weeks where we had class on Friday because it was kind of difficult to travel out of the country on those weekends with Friday class. I ended up staying in Barcelona those weekends though which was a great decision so that I could take some time to get to know the city I was staying in and experience the weekend night life in Barna.

Costa Rica was truly the experience of a lifetime for me. As someone who is an environmental science major, this country spoke so near and dear to my heart as they are very environmentally oriented overall and really are striving to keep their forests thriving. I had the sweetest host mom, an absolutely amazing site director, great university staff and I made some of the greatest friends on my trip, not to mention the vast number of breathtaking places I got to visit during my summer in Costa Rica. I have gained such an appreciation for the Spanish language and can speak more now than I ever could before! And I truly fell in love with the Costa Rican culture - Pura Vida!

During my four months in Cusco, Peru, I was able to gain experiences and memories I never thought possible. I studied abroad with CISabroad as my program, and the support I received was amazing. Every question I had before leaving for my trip was thoroughly answered, and I felt more than prepared. While in Peru, I loved being able to take courses that were drastically different from those that are traditionally offered here in the U.S., such as Healing and Shamanism. I was able to travel all over the country and experience different ecosystems including the desert in Huacachina, the Amazon rain forest in Puerto Maldonado, the coast in Paracas, the cloud forest at Machu Picchu, and various Incan ruins throughout the country. We also hiked (all the way up to 14,000 feet!), went horseback riding, and volunteered at schools, an animal shelter and an orphanage. I think the best part about studying abroad is learning to love the culture shock and being in new situations you may never have thought you’d be in but are so glad you had the privilege to experience. Overall, studying abroad was one of the best experiences of my life.

Overall my experience with this program was excellent. My transition was very smooth and i was always comfortable and safe even when I kept questioning my decision of studying abroad on my last fall semester of college. As I am back on home university I don't regret my decision at all. This program gave experiences that you would never gain anywhere else by giving you the opportunity to engage with the community and also apply what you learned in the classroom to the outside world. It was difficult because we didn't get enough interaction with other Peruvian university student besides those that we had in our tandem session which were for students who were trying to practice there English or Spanish. Maybe it was just my group but we were pretty small with only 10 people which was nice but we lacked the ability to be more diverse in the international and national student. But if you are looking for a program that isnt too overwhelming and that gives you opportunities to interact with outside communities but also still have the ability to learn in spaces with other who are also international student this is a great program for that. I would also want to mention that besides the academics with the program you are able to go on excursions for free or for a reduced price, in my time in Cusco i got a trip to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu included in my program.

I spent Fall of 2019 studying at RMIT University in Vietnam. This was an amazing experience for my first time in an Asian country. Vietnam is a place full of culture and history. Being with the locals, going hiking, meeting interns from other countries, and meeting my closest friends is something I will never forget! The cultural experience that I had was unbeatable. School wise, my course at RMIT were not that challenging for me and structured differently than in the States. I recommend taking more classes than suggested if you want a harder course load, or use your free time to really explore Saigon, its food, and interact with the locals just as I did.