Thailand Internship

  Thailand

• Bangkok: 
Bangkok

Term: Spring 
Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Please inquire for specific dates

Description: Join us this January for our Bangkok-based Land of Smiles Program. This custom designed internship incorporates the best of Thai culture and nature preserves. Up to 12-semester units are available and space is limited to eight participants.

Optional College Credit: 12 semester units

Orientation:
The program begins with a 4-day orientation in Khao Yai National Park. Khao Yai is Thailand's oldest National Park and a source of Thai pride. Here you will have a chance to join primate researchers in their effort to unlock the secret life of gibbons. Day hikes in search of barking deer and wild elephant will showcase the best of Thai nature.

Thai language Training:
From Khao Yai, return to Bangkok, City of Angels for the duration of your directed internship. Accommodations will be at the Bangkok YMCA. Luxurious by YMCA standards, the high rise is also a hotel located in the heart of the city. A large walking park is a short distance, so too the United States embassy. Your first two weeks in Bangkok will be spent taking language classes approximately five hours a day. Some knowledge of the language will endear you to your Thai friends and open doors otherwise unavailable to the passing tourist.

Highlights: Buddhist Monastery Study and Work project:
Once you have the basics of the Thai language down, you will commute to Wat Bah Boh for temple study and work. Here you will learn the ancient art of meditation from Buddhist monks, as well as the basic tenets of Buddhist philosophy. Afternoons will see you volunteer your time either tutoring monks in the English language, or working on a construction project to improve the infrastructure of the temple your choice.

Teaching segment:
Share your knowledge of the world and the places you have visited with Thai students. Design geography lessons about America and the countries you have visited and present 2-3 times a week. During the other days, instruct school children in the English language. This is a great opportunity to give back to the Thai community and inspire students who may one day journey to the lands you share with them.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications: Space is limited to eight participants. Open the Island Time Internships page and fill out the application. We will review your application and give you a decision within a week. Please call us to confirm that we have received your application.

Experience Required: no

Institute for Cultural Ecology's Mission Statement: The Institute for Cultural Ecology was founded on the conviction that visits to exotic destinations imply a commitment to cultural sensitivity and environmental stewardship. Our programs match the interests, academic goals, and passions of the participant to select host organizations and researchers. Once you connect with a place and its people, they become a part of you. Forever.