One Month In!

I've officially been in Thailand for over a month! It's finally starting to hit me that this is my life now and not just an awesome vacation. This also marks my first month in the "real world," and I’m experiencing a whirlwind of emotions: strength, bravery, determination, humbleness, fear, anxiety, and fun! Adulthood brings a complex mix of challenges and rewards, making every day an adventure.

I remember being asked what I wanted to be when I grew up in elementary school. I always said I wanted to be a teacher. As I grew older, my goals and aspirations shifted towards health, and teaching took a backseat. However, now I'm in a unique position where I can pursue both passions. It's incredible to see how my dreams have evolved and come together, allowing me to integrate teaching and health into my career.

In this new chapter of my life, I’m discovering the joy of making a positive impact on others while continuing to learn and grow myself. The journey has been a blend of anticipation and adjustment, but it's fulfilling to see my aspirations materialize in such a meaningful way. The experience of guiding students and witnessing their growth made me realize the importance of continuous learning. This motivated me to go back to school (even though I only graduated 2 months ago) and pursue my Master of Public Health (MPH) degree simultaneously. I want to deepen my knowledge and skills to bring even more value to my students and contribute to their well-being. 

Speaking of my school, my students continue to amaze me each and every day. When I was told I would be teaching at the most prestigious school in Thailand for academically gifted students, I was absolutely terrified. I thought to myself, “If I had a teacher who is only a few years older than me, I definitely would not listen.” As a recent graduate who knows nothing about teaching, I was feeling overwhelmed. Mostly, I felt bad that the students had to have me, a novice, teaching them a new language. However, over a month in, I feel much more confident in my skills. There are times I have spent my lunch reteaching myself grammar, thinking, “What even is a relative clause or past participle verb?” Despite my initial fears, my students' drive and determination have been incredibly inspiring. Their eagerness to learn and their ability to grasp complex concepts quickly have pushed me to become a better teacher.

The dedication my students show is unlike anything I have ever seen. They come to class prepared, ask thoughtful questions, and are genuinely engaged in the learning process. Their enthusiasm is contagious and has rekindled my passion for education. Watching them excel and grow academically has been one of the most rewarding experiences. In turn, their commitment has motivated me to continually improve. Whether it’s spending extra time reviewing grammar rules or coming up with creative ways to make lessons more engaging, I strive to meet their high expectations. My initial fear has transformed into a deep sense of pride and responsibility. I am honored to be part of their educational journey and excited to see how much we can achieve together. 

When I’m not working, you can find me at the school gym, trying different local restaurants, or exploring the city! Now let’s move on to what you all want to hear about; the food! I thought I would have to go a year without my favorite food, bagels, and resigned to missing out on that small but significant pleasure. However, I found the cutest cafe on campus that made fresh bagels every morning. As soon as I walked in, the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel welcomed, almost like I had entered a familiar place back in Maine. When I took my first bite, the bagel gave me the same warm embrace I feel every time I'm home. It was more than just a meal; it was a connection to home, a piece of my life in Thailand that made me feel grounded and less homesick. Besides the bagels, I have been eating lots of local fruits (especially mango), tofu, rice, veggies, and noodles! There is a pad Thai vendor across from school and it is so good (also $0.80 for a hefty serving), so I frequent there. 

My school campus is situated on the Mahidol University campus, which is one of the most gorgeous schools I have ever seen. I love going for walks around the campus, as there are so many walking paths and gorgeous spots to sit and relax in the sun. So far, my favorite part of exploring Thailand has been the markets! I have bought the freshest produce and most delicious meals from the friendliest people! I also have been enjoying the nightlife near campus and in Bangkok! 

In the upcoming weeks, I will be taking trips to a lake with some friends and an island with family! I am so excited to be able to go on more adventures and see different parts of this beautiful country! Overall, my time in Thailand has been an incredible journey of personal and professional growth. The blend of teaching, learning, and exploring new places has enriched my life in ways I never imagined. I look forward to the adventures that lie ahead and to continuing this amazing experience! Thank you for reading,  I miss and love you all so much!

Xoxo, 

Abbie<3