Culture, Ecology and Community - Thailand

My semester abroad in Thailand through ISDSI was one of the most special and formative experiences I have had. I was pushed both mentally and physically through the unique coursework, which expanded outside of the classroom. Whether backpacking across rainforests and mountains or snorkeling above coral reefs off of the coast, I was able to learn so much more than through a classroom setting. I truly believe this program offers one of the most unique and authentic study abroad experiences out there. With an emphasis on learning the local language and culture, combined with the multitude of homestays included in the program, I was able to experience so much more of Thailand than I would have from traveling on my own. On top of that, the locals were some of the most kind and welcoming people, being gracious enough to let us stay in their homes and feed us some of the best Thai food. There were so many amazing highlights from the program, from the beautiful views while hiking through the mountains, learning how to grow coffee and cacao, camping on remote beaches, being able to order food in Thai for the first time, and my personal favorite, hanging out with the elephants. I highly recommend this program, as it encapsulates what a study abroad experience should be, with an emphasis on experiential learning and local guidance, while pushing you out of your comfort zone. If you enjoy a little bit of a challenge, are a hands-on learner, and want a rich learning experience, then this program is for you! I am beyond grateful to have been able to experience Thailand through ISDSI.

I studied abroad with ISDSI through the CEC program in the fall of 2024, and I returned to the U.S. with a new community, stronger research skills, and unreal experiences I will never forget. Regarding community, the people I met in my and other “sibling” programs, the fantastic staff at ISDSI who guided us through the semester, and everyone in between were the ones who made my time in Thailand special. I have many wonderful memories with CEC, and some of my favorites include visiting Karen villages, staying in homestays, exploring Chiang Mai restaurants, and snorkeling in the Andaman Sea. Academically, we learned how to conduct mini-research projects which helped me ask better questions in interviews and prepare for my future senior thesis. I would recommend ISDSI to other students because it is an immersive, hands-on, and challenging program in all the right ways. And, my biggest takeaway is I learned how truly supportive, inspiring, and uplifting a community can be, even when they were strangers only a few months ago. So, to CEC, ISDSI, and everyone involved in our program and beyond: Thank you for a truly life-changing experience.

My experience with ISDSI was truly special. I had the opportunity to learn from so many amazing people who were extremely generous in sharing their lives and wealth of traditional knowledge with us. Each field expedition gave me the chance to push myself in an outdoor setting, with a strong emphasis on learning by doing. We explored farming communities, mountain ranges, mangroves, beaches, and the ocean, providing experiences that taught me about the ecology of the environment I was in and the people who protect and depend on it. The opportunity to take Thai language class was definitely a highlight of the semester, as it helped to form bonds with our host families, make new friends, and feel more at home in Thailand. While still being very educational, this program is undoubtedly fun. Every day felt like a new adventure, as there were endless activities to satisfy many different interests. We bathed elephants, learned to make natural tie dye, meditated with monks, made our own chocolate bars, and hiked to one of the highest points in Thailand, just to name a few. ISDSI also operates on the block plan, so CC students who thrive in an adventurous, experiential learning environment should definitely choose this program! Similar to CC, ISDSI’s small size creates a very strong sense of community among peers, faculty, and professors. I am so grateful to ISDSI for providing the opportunity to learn while traveling throughout Thailand, and would tell anyone considering this program to apply immediately!