Now that my year in Thailand is coming to an end, I want to look back on the past months and share my experiences. Alot has happened during this time, and I am very grateful for everything I was able to learn and experience.
As I already wrote in my half-year report, I changed my project in the middle of my service. At first, this was not an beasy decision. I knew that it would take courage to start again in a new place and get used to a different environment. But in the end, this change was one of the best parts of my time in Thailand.
My new project is in Mae Hong Son at the Rajabhat University. Moving there opened many new perspectives for me. I was able to see a different part of the country and understand Thai culture in a deeper and more personal way.
The teachers at the university welcomed me very warmly. They always made sure I was doing well and supported me from the first day. If I had any questions or problems, I could always talk to them. Over time, I even became friends with several of the teachers. These friendships mean a lot to me, and they shaped my experience here in a very positive way.
Another important change was that a new volunteer joined my project. Working together with him made the teaching more fun and easier to plan. Teaching as a team felt good, and we could help each other and share ideas. It was nice not to be alone in the classroom anymore, and I enjoyed our teamwork a lot.
Of course, it took some time to settle into the new project and to find my routine again. Everything felt new at first. But the friendly atmosphere at the university and the warm people around me helped me quickly feel at home. I really enjoyed the work there, especially because I felt that my help was needed and appreciated. The cooperation with the teachers and students was always positive and motivating.
Looking back at the whole year, I can see how much this experience has influenced me. I learned a lot about myself, about working in a new environment, and about stepping out of my comfort zone. Thailand became a place that is very close to my heart.
Because of that, it now feels hard to leave. It is difficult to say goodbye to the life I built here and to the people who welcomed me so kindly. I know that I will miss the quiet beauty of Mae Hong Son, the everyday routines, the friendly teachers who became my friends, and the volunteer I worked with.
At the same time, I feel very thankful for everything I experienced. I will take many memories with me, and I will always remember the kindness and care I received during my time in Thailand.
This year was a very special chapter in my life, and I am grateful for every moment.
By Oskar Johannes Steinert One year program volunteer at VSAMLTV1401: RPK50 School-Khonkaen