Bandung, 29 November 2024 — In a world that grows more each day, exchange programs offer a rare opportunity to step beyond borders and immerse oneself in a new culture. Among the many destinations that captivate exchange students, Thailand stands out as a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. We’ll explore the cultural adaptation journey of two exchange participants (EP) from Global Volunteer AIESEC in Unpad who chose Thailand as their destination. Through their stories, we’ll uncover the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned, and the transformative experiences that shaped their perspectives.
Warm Welcome by Locals
For many EP, the decision to choose Thailand comes from a mix of inspiration and a chance. Arum, a university student from UNPAD, found her path to Thailand through a trusted friend. Encouraged by stories of warm locals and incredible experiences from previous volunteers, she decided to take the leap.
Arum’s activities in Thailand
“A friend I met during KKN, who’s also an AIESECer, suggested Thailand to me. He said every EP who chose Thailand absolutely loved it because the locals are so warm, and the experience is just incredible. I trusted his advice, and now that I’ve been, I can say it was the best decision!” Arum said.
Arriving in Thailand brought a mix of excitement and surprises for her. Arum was immediately struck by the warmth and friendliness of the locals. She especially enjoyed Saraburi’s peaceful atmosphere, with its beautiful parks and farms, which they described as having a “Swiss vibe” minus the weather.
Arum’s learning with Thailand culture
“The vibe in Bangkok felt like home, I was amazed by how polite and warm everyone was, from kids to elders,” she added.
She also found that adapting to life in Thailand is a rewarding journey of personal and cultural growth. Arum initially faced challenges with humor among the people and language, but the warmth and patience of the locals made the transition easier. Having a Buddhist friend back home gave her some cultural context, but living in Thailand deepened her appreciation for the country’s values and kindness. Despite challenges with finding halal food, she felt a strong connection to the people and culture.
An Unexpected Path
Jibril’s path to joining Global Volunteer program was anything but planned. Initially unaware of the program, he stumbled upon the opportunity during a farewell event for AIESEC Future Leaders (AFL), a leadership initiative he had previously participated in.
“At first, I didn’t think I’d be able to join something like this. Honestly, my motive for volunteering was more like, ‘I don’t know, I just ended up here,’” Jibril shared with a laugh.
His interest in international exchanges began when he joined a group for students exploring global opportunities, although he had no specific plans at the time. When presented with a choice between Vietnam and Thailand, Jibril sought advice from his parents and conducted his own research. The outcome? Thailand captured his interest with its rich culture, renowned cuisine, and reputation as the “Land of Smiles.”
Jibril arriving in Thailand with his EP buddy
Jibril’s journey to Thailand was filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety. As it was his first time traveling internationally alone, navigating the airport proved challenging.
“It was really confusing,” he admitted, describing the process of exchanging currency and clearing immigration.
Despite these initial hurdles, Jibril’s excitement for exploring Thailand’s vibrant culture and unique experiences kept him motivated.
Jibril’s volunteer activities in Thailand
Placed in a rural area near the Cambodian border, Jibril faced various challenges, including adapting to remote living conditions and overcoming language barriers. However, the support of his host family played a crucial role in easing the transition. They provided him with halal food, introduced him to local cultural landmarks, and offered guidance to help him feel at home.
“Over time, I realized Thailand has so much fascinating culture waiting to be discovered,” Jibril reflected.
His experiences ranged from learning about daily social customs to exploring ancient heritage sites, each encounter deepening his appreciation for Thailand’s rich traditions.
Although the initial culture shock was brief, it quickly turned into a journey of discovery and personal growth. Jibril embraced the opportunity to immerse himself in Thailand’s vibrant traditions, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
How Global Volunteer Shaped Arum and Jibril’s Lives
From both of their stories, their time in Thailand brought profound personal growth. Arum found that the experience deepened her understanding of other cultures, enhancing their connection to their own. She’s grateful for the friendships formed and looks forward to returning someday.
“Living there truly changed me,” she said, noting that the kindness and humility she experienced in Thailand taught her valuable life lessons.
Jibril also experienced a transformative shift. The exchange even allowed him to skip an English class, and He’s now seeking other international opportunities.
“Global Volunteer was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he added, noting how the program gave him a global exposure and boosted his confidence in living abroad, it was all worth it.
Why Choose AIESEC’s Global Volunteer Program?
The Global Volunteer program isn’t just about travel—it’s about transformative experiences that help participants grow as individuals and expand their worldview. Both Arum and Jibril highlighted how the program not only strengthened their understanding of different cultures but also reshaped their perspectives on life.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to broaden your horizons and make a meaningful impact, the Global Volunteer program by AIESEC Indonesia is your gateway to incredible opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of Thailand or other destinations, this program offers a chance to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, contribute to local communities, and develop lifelong skills.
Don’t miss your chance to embark on an adventure that could change your life, just like it did for Arum and Jibril. Ready to take the leap? Check the information through aiesec.or.id/globalvolunteer and start your journey today!
(alg/wlm)
Want to know more about AIESEC programs and events? Check out more about the international leadership organization AIESEC in Indonesia through our Instagram account @aiesec.unpad and @aiesecindonesia.