Great food, great place! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

While the public health courses were interesting, the courses taken at Khon Kaen University did not have the strongest academic support. There was no consistent academic figure to report to. However, the Thai language course for this program was phenomenal; it was easily my favorite course in this program. While the Thai classes started out rather intense, students quickly adjusted, and the Ajaans (teachers) made each class fun. I was really surprised with how much Thai I had learned by the end of the program!

On-site administration of your program

CIEE staff were helpful with addressing concerns while on the program, however there was not much transparency between students and staff regarding program costs and scheduling. I believe that this issue will be fixed for future semesters.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved my roommate! Our apartments were conveniently located and were well air-conditioned. It was only a 3 minute walk to the nearest food court. Our apartments had washing machines and dryers, however students mostly air-dried their clothes.

The food was delicious and cheap! I spent on average $1-2 per meal. My advice: try everything once at U-Center!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I ended up going to the hospital twice during my time abroad and both times I was accompanied to the hospital by translators. My health care was affordable and sufficient; I felt that I received excellent care while abroad.

I felt very safe in Khon Kaen!

While certain aspects of the academics of this program were frustrating, the people I met, the delicious food I ate, and the many times I got to travel around Thailand made this program worth it! If you're looking for an adventure, this is the right program for you.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Budget wisely; meals are on average $1-2, toiletries are similar to US prices if not a bit cheaper, western food costs more than Thai food.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Thai class was intense! You learn a lot the first few weeks of class, which is great for home stays (my semester had three home stays total). Thai class also has fun activities to practice your Thai, like navigating your way through a Thai market and calling the taxi company in Thai. I was really surprised with how much Thai I learned! And don't be intimidated by learning a new language; the Ajaans are extremely helpful!

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• Apartment

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• Local Students

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• Americans

• Thai food
• Learning how to speak Thai

• Academic administration

The Avid Adventurer