By: Christina Eng
I attended the Laos Thailand and Malaysia study abroad program during the winter break of 2019. After hearing so many amazing stories from close friends at SCSU, I knew that I had to go. I was in my senior year. “Better late than never,” as quoted by Geoffrey Chaucer. We were there for almost three weeks, visiting all three countries from the busy Thailand city of Bangkok to the nice, relaxing streets of Vientiane, Laos.
Personally I did like some countries better than other, but all-in-all it was an amazing experience. Throughout this trip, you will not only be able to eat new foods, but you will also be able to meet people, establish new connections, learn about the diverse cultures, learn about their history and their practices, some of their daily struggles/ hardships, explore historical sites, and maybe even feed an elephant like I did. In my opinion, it really goes to show how grateful I should be to have an education system that will help me financially, a family that supports me, and a nice house or apartment over my head. I feel that in today’s society, specifically from a college student’s standpoint, we are so busy with our classes/ assignments, student organizations, maintaining a social life, and working one or more jobs because of all this commotion, often times we forget to take care of ourselves.
I felt that this education abroad experience helped me to learn and grow, and to take a moment to breathe, relax, and appreciate what I have. If you ever have the opportunity to travel abroad and educate yourselves about the world around you/ and about the USA, I would definitely recommend you to take the chance. Go and “live your life to the fullest”.
P.S. Do not make the mistake of packing too many jeans, it is very hot.