Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The Thai of my life Past Review

By (Virginia State University) - abroad from 08/10/2016 to 12/12/2016 with

KEI Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to accept cultures that are different from my own. I learned that the norms of my home country do not apply everyone else in world, there is truly someone out there for everyone.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The professors at Mahidon University were really knowledgable about the content in which they taught. The university has everything you need from computers, books, printers and private study areas. Not to mention, the university is incredible.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administration for KEI was amazing. Her name is Marrissa, and she is very helpful and fun to be around.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed in a place call Bundit House. It has a pool and a washer and dryer. The rooms are lovely and they have a padio. There is AC and a TV that has the news in English. Although the none of the staff speak english, it did not hinder anyone from getting the things that they needed like room cleanings or maintenance. Once in Thailand you will learn to adapt.

* Food:

There are a plethora of food options for anyone to choose from any where you go! There is international food and of course Thai food. However, only eat from vendors that you feel comfortable eating from.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The Thai people are very kind. They are fascinated by foreigners so sometimes they may laugh but it is a laugh of love. The Thai people will help you if you need it. As with any place, there are people who will scam you but you just have to be smart and alert.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I never felt in danger in Thailand. I always traveled with a buddy to most places.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

KEI is great.

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)

You're budget depends of on you! There is always something to spend money on in Thailand. Just be smart about how you spend your Thai Baht. Things do add up in Thailand, and fast!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 250.00
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Yes, plan to travel. Make it apart of your budget. There is so much to explore and learn.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

I learned enough Thai to never get lost, order food and to hold basic conversation.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 0
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Practice with the Thai people in the community.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Meeting New Friends
  • Learning the Language
  • Traveling
* What could be improved?
  • The on-site Coordinator should be closer to student housing
  • Telephones should be international
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish that I knew more about all of the small communities of rural Thai people that are in Thailand. They are very fascinating and interesting to see.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.