Marketing, Advertising, & PR Study Abroad Programs in Thailand

My semester in Chiang Mai Thailand was one of the best chapters of my life. I met so many incredible friends in the program, many of whom I still keep in touch with now. The city was perfect for living in, exploring, and travelling around. The staff from the Thai buddies to Jum, the program coordinator made it their job to make us feel at home and comfortable while also encouraging us to branch out and try new things. Between the food, friendly people, and amazing memories, this is a program I'd recommend to everyone wanting to go abroad!

USAC in Thailand gave me numerous opportunities to go out of my comfort zone, travel, learn, and make memories. I made life-long friends in the program, many of whom I continue to stay in contact with. Now that I am back in the United States, I miss the friendliness of the Thai people and the DELICIOUS cheap food. I, along with many other program participants are already trying to plan a trip back to South East Asia.

I absolutely loved my time studying abroad with USAC in Chiang Mai, Thailand! The city is wonderful (as somebody who is not a city person), very walk-able, and near to a lot of other great places to visit. The CMU USAC staff are phenomenal and planned a ton of great events to help us get to know the area and were great resources for everything. The Thai buddies program that USAC sets up is a really great way to meet Thai students and get to know the area better. The courses were not very difficult (compared to my usual STEM courses) but they were very engaging. Chiang Mai is very affordable and I always felt safe. The food is phenomenal, I miss it every day! I got my degree in geology and didn't take any major related courses while abroad, but I still had a lot of opportunities to engage with my field outside of classes. I truly cannot recommend this program enough! (I also have pics and a website if you want those! I couldn't get the form on the website to go through but I uploaded an image there)

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!

Deciding to study abroad in Chiang Mai through USAC was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The staff was ridiculously helpful and the city itself was amazing. Wonderful field trips and all of the students became very close. Highly recommend a specialized program as the community you gain from being in the same cohort as other students is hard to beat. I would highly recommend this program to anyone, but especially those who love nature and learning about Buddhism and psychology. The professors are amazing as well.

Studying abroad in Chiang Mai was the best decision I have made during my academic career so far. This program has a stellar staff that genuinely care about you and want you to succeed. During my Spring semester, I was able to take several interesting courses including Buddhist Psychology and Buddhism in Thailand, which had accompanying field trips and applied practice. The community around us was welcoming as we were introduced to our "Thai Buddies" who helped us get acclimated to the new environment around us. I spent my days exploring Chiang Mai and trying a wide variety of new foods. The Songkran water festival in April was life-changing and an incredible cultural experience. I would recommend this program to anyone who isn't afraid to explore and embrace a new culture. The dorm situation was superb, with a spacious single room and bathroom all to myself on a floor with the other students in the program. We had a community built on our shared classes, went out for dinner together each night, and went on arranged field trips with our program advisors. I can't emphasize enough how amazing the field trips were, and I recommend signing up for all of them (most are completely free). We had the chance to make traditional crafts, bathe elephants, tour gardens and farms, and bicycle through the countryside. Additionally we explored waterfalls and national parks with our new friends from Chiang Mai University through the Thai Buddies program. During this study abroad, we had several periods of holidays from class and many people were able to explore more of Thailand and visit places like Bangkok and Krabi. This is one of the least expensive programs, but it has some of the greatest staff and field trips of any program and I would highly recommend it.

I genuinely could not say enough good things about this program and the people involved. The professors were amazing, and really cared about their students and wanted them to learn, but also have fun and immerse themselves in the culture. Everyone I met was amazing and we created a community there. Studying abroad was the best decision, and even though I was so scared to leave everything I knew, I had the best time. I always wish I was back studying abroad. This program is amazing and everyone involved was working so hard to make sure we were safe, learning, and having an amazing time. I could not recommend studying abroad/this specific program enough!

The Khon Kaen USAC program offers everything you could want in a study abroad experience—immersive culture, hands-on internships, engaging classes, and unforgettable memories. As someone studying abroad for the first time, it was an opportunity I couldn’t have passed up.

My study abroad experience in Chiang Mai was an extraordinary journey of both self-discovery and intellectual growth. Immersed in a community that embraced kindness as its core value, I found myself learning how to be a more mindful and present person. The opportunity to step outside my familiar bubble, engaging with the local culture and people, transformed my understanding of the world. From the nourishing and affordable food to the sustainable practices I encountered, every detail of the environment inspired a deeper appreciation for life. A particularly transformative part of my education came from my professors. They are deeply committed to helping us apply classroom concepts to the world around us, using cultural immersion to bring lessons to life. Whether we were enjoying meals prepared by locals, exploring temples, or learning from community members, every experience allowed us to connect academic theory with real-world practice, enriching my understanding of sustainability in profound ways. Their perspective helped me to become a more grounded and centered individual, capable of experiencing life with greater peace and connection. Chiang Mai was a place that allowed me to explore, not just intellectually, but emotionally and spiritually, leaving me with lifelong friendships, a deeper understanding of sustainability, and a clearer sense of self. The sense of security, safety and belonging I felt throughout the entire country allowed me to move freely, experience its wonders, and connect with people on a deeply human level.

The people, culture, and overall experience were unique, and ultimately, I would recommend studying in Chiang Mai to anyone independent who wants a different path than most, wants an original experience, and is willing to put themselves out of their comfort zone. Everyone is kind, the lifestyle is relaxing, and the perspective you gain from individuals worldwide in Chiang Mai is invaluable.

This study abroad experience changed my life! If its your first time traveling to Asia or you are contemplating study abroad, choose this program! The staff makes the trip so easy, stress-free, and comfortable. They answered all of my questions and made the visa process so easy to understand. Once you're there, the staff in Thailand are some of the most welcoming, kind-hearted people I have ever met! They made my time in Chiang Mai so special, going out of their way to show us the most popular local food spots, tourist attractions, and shopping areas. I still keep in touch with them two years later! The accommodation was clean, comfortable, and spacious, and safety was a top priority here. I was able to travel every weekend and explore Chiang Mai was feeling completely safe. I would recommend traveling as much as possible to make the most of your experience, not to mention it is so affordable compared to the US and European countries. I would 100% recommend this program to anyone looking for a life-changing study abroad experience.

I was so nervous to study abroad, especially in Thailand, but it ended up being the best decision I ever made. I made the best friends and had really cool Thai buddies that made the experience amazing! I look back on my experience and miss it so much. I recommend anyone to go study abroad in Thailand, you won’t regret it!

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.

I studied abroad in Chiang Mai for 10 weeks in the summer 2024 and I had the time of my life. USAC was an amazing program that made the transition living abroad easy. They provided included weekend trips that allowed us to do all the touristy fun things for no extra cost. The courses were very interesting and the professors were great and flexible. I wish I could go study abroad again!

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 studied abroad in Khon Kaen, Thailand, for a semester from February to June 2024 with the USAC program. I chose Khon Kaen because of my deep interest in Thai language, culture, and food, and I was excited to immerse myself in an entirely new environment. Academics: The academic structure in Khon Kaen was a bit different from what I was used to. All my classes were three hours long, held once a week, as opposed to the typical 50-minute classes I’m accustomed to back home. While I didn’t love the longer class durations, I adjusted to it over time. The courses were taught in English, which made it easier to follow along, although it was challenging at times to fully engage with the material, especially since I was balancing a completely new environment and culture. Cultural Experience: Living in Thailand gave me the chance to fully immerse myself in the local culture. I was able to practice some of the Thai language I had learned and enjoyed participating in local traditions and activities. One of the highlights was my USAC program pairing me with a Thai buddy, who helped guide me through the country and introduced me to local spots. I’m deeply grateful for this connection because, as a foreign student, making local friends can be challenging, and I sometimes struggled to connect with others. Accommodation: I stayed in a dorm shared with both Thai and international students. While it was convenient, I didn’t have as much interaction with others as I would have liked. I spent a lot of time in my dorm alone, but my Thai buddy helped alleviate some of the loneliness by inviting me out and showing me around. Social Life & Travel: Exploring Khon Kaen was an exciting experience. On weekends, I would visit the night markets, which offered an array of food, snacks, clothing, accessories, and more. I also frequented local gyms, malls, and restaurants. Thanks to the guidance of the friends I made along the way, navigating these places was relatively smooth. I was able to experience Thai cuisine firsthand and enjoyed tasting a wide variety of dishes. Although I did make a few friends from my classes and other international students, it was tough to find people with similar interests and vibes. That being said, I was lucky to meet some great individuals who made my time in Khon Kaen much more enjoyable. Challenges: Homesickness was something I struggled with at times. When I felt lonely, I found comfort in video calls with my family, which helped me stay connected with home. I also had moments when I felt out of place, especially since my dorm was often quiet and I was alone. However, my Thai buddy’s regular invitations to hang out made a significant difference, and I’m incredibly thankful for those moments of support. Another challenge I encountered was the heat and humidity, particularly from March to June, as this is Thailand’s summer season. The weather was something to adjust to, and it definitely required a lot of hydration and energy to cope with the constant warmth. Also, for anyone with dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that pork is a staple in Thai cuisine, so it’s helpful to do some research on meal options ahead of time. Advice for Future Students: Learn Basic Local Phrases: Familiarizing yourself with basic Thai phrases can make daily interactions much easier and enrich your experience. Embrace Travel: Take every opportunity to travel around Thailand and the surrounding region. It’s one of the best parts of studying abroad, and there’s so much to explore! Be Prepared for the Heat: Thailand can be hot and humid year-round, especially during the summer months (March to June). Make sure to stay hydrated and pack accordingly. Dietary Considerations: If you have dietary restrictions, do some research about the availability of food options and be mindful of the prevalence of pork in Thai cuisine. Conclusion: Overall, my study abroad experience in Khon Kaen was a memorable one. I had the opportunity to travel internationally for the first time, which was both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. The excitement and positive mindset I maintained helped me navigate the challenges that came my way, and I’m grateful for the ups and downs of the journey. I met incredible friends who supported me throughout my experience, and I look back on my time in Thailand with gratitude. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to immerse themselves in Thai culture and explore Southeast Asia. P.S. A lot of Thai food is spicy.

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.

Studying abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand, was an incredibly immersive and transformative experience. One of the highlights was being part of a program that brought together people from diverse backgrounds across the globe. This allowed me to learn about a variety of cultures, not only Thai but also from my peers. Engaging with classmates from different countries expanded my global perspective, and the interactions added richness to my overall experience. In addition to learning about other cultures, I gained a deep understanding of Thai culture through the USAC program's engaging field trips. Visits to Elephant Sanctuaries, Temples, and historical museums offered hands-on exposure to Thai traditions, customs, and the country's profound spiritual heritage. These experiences complemented my classroom learning, where I studied the Thai economy and learned about the values that guide business practices in the country. Beyond Chiang Mai, I also had the opportunity to explore other cities in Thailand, such as Phuket and Bangkok. Each city offered a unique experience and perspective on the diversity within Thailand itself, from the bustling energy of Bangkok to the serene beauty of Phuket. The program’s structure was flexible, allowing me to balance academic learning with travel, which enhanced my understanding of Thailand’s cultural and economic landscape. Overall, my time in the USAC program was truly unforgettable. It not only taught me about Thai culture and the business environment but also fostered personal growth as I navigated new experiences and broadened my worldview.

I learned so much about myself and how we are often products of our environments. Going across the globe where almost everything is different, I realized that in an environment with different social pressures my desires shifted. It made me wonder what makes me me? I learned how to recognize my privilege and reserve my initial reactions to new things. For example, certain foods were shocking to me and would not have considered eating. But some of these foods were staples in this culture and often consumed because they were affordable. Phenomenal learning experience with incredibly supportive and passionate faculty. * Host Country Program Administration On-site administration of your program On site staff are fantastic!! The international college department at Khon Kaen University take care of so many international students mainly from Southeast Asia. They organized so many activities for us including cultural immersion trips, cooking classes, and exploring the Khon Kaen region. * Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? The housing arrangements took some adjusting but I felt very safe and exposure to bugs/critters was an opportunity to grow out of comfort zone. And living on the 5th floor ensured that I got moving at least twice a day!! * Food: Food is delicious in Khon Kaen. Unfortunately vegan options are incredibly limited, if not practically impossible. So flexibility is definitelt important in this program. However I did find vegetarian and some vegan options! * Social & Cultural Integration: How integrated did you feel with the local culture? I felt SO integrated!!! I only knew my 2 classmates from the United States that were from states so far from mine and had such unique perspectives. Otherwise everyone I met was from primarily Southeast Asia! Met people from over 27 countries! The collectivist mindset of society in Thailand made me feel so welcomed and accepted. I never once felt homesick. Students would come introduce themselves on the bus just to be friendly and practice their English. It was truly heart melting just how kind everyone was. * Health Care: How well were health issues addressed during the program? I fortunately didn't need to utilize any healthcare services however there were two hospitals very close by and one we, USAC students, were designated to use. I studied the healthcare system in Thailand and learned what an efficient and high quality system they have. You can find pharmacies on every corner and they are able to prescribe medication for 16 common illnesses on site without visiting a Dr.'s office. Thai traditional massage is also incredibly common and not expensive. The university has a spa! * Safety: I felt incredibly safe in Khon Kaen. Mind you, I rarely was out past 10pm. But my housing had 24 hour security and I never went out alone at night. If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes Absolutely!!! I learned so much about the culture, language, healthcare system, traditional medicine. It was all so new and fascinating. I appreciated the bridge of spiritual and evidence based reasoning of medicinal practices and the integration of both traditional and modern medicine. The respect between faculty and students was remarkable. Faculty actually felt approachable and truly took time to help students. Finances * Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget? (1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) It is incredibly feasible to do this program on a budget! I spent no more than $5-10 on a whole day's worth of food. Cost of living is very low compared to cost of living in the US. Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $35-50 Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Even though everything seems inexpensive, your money still goes fast. So be careful going on shopping sprees. But also, treat yourself! Thailand has the best markets and the most adorable clothes!!! What did you like most about the program? Traditional Thai Medicine Clinic visit International School Field trip Volunteering in Pediatric Cancer wing to sing to children * What could be improved? A little more downtime because it was hard balancing cultural/social opportunities with International School with workload A little more structure in Healthcare in Thailand class * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Just to worry less before I left to Thailand. Its normal to get pretravel nerves but I didn't have anything to worry about!! Also be prepared to bring back a lot of amazing souvenirs!!!