A group of Ohio University professors, staff, and students kicked off the new year in Thailand, participating in a 10-day experiential learning study abroad trip. The journey, co-directed by Pam Kaylor, Professor of Instruction at the Scripps College of Communication, along with Thai Language Associate Professor Pittaya Paladroi-Shane and Southeast Asian Subject Librarian Jeffrey Shane, provided a blend of rural and urban experiences, spanning the serene mountains of Chiang Mai in the north and the vibrant city life of Bangkok.
The program, which included 10 students, was also accompanied by Joe Wakeley, the new Assistant Director of Global Security, Health and Safety.
“This study abroad experience offers students a unique opportunity for experiential learning,” said Kaylor. “Unlike a typical vacation, this program allows students to deeply engage with Thai culture, connecting with people who are different yet share common humanity.”
Paladroi-Shane added that the program not only enriches students’ understanding of Thai culture and its relationship with Southeast Asia and the U.S., but also dispels misconceptions about Thailand. “By participating in hands-on activities and sightseeing, students gain new perspectives that broaden their worldview,” Paladroi-Shane noted.
Among the trip’s highlights were visits to significant cultural and historical sites. The group explored Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple renowned for its grand staircase adorned with seven-headed serpent statues. Students also toured Ayutthaya’s historic monasteries and contributed to a community service project at the Moradokmai Theatre Community & Homeschool, where they made a meaningful impact while connecting with local residents. Additionally, students volunteered at an elephant sanctuary, where they gained firsthand insight into conservation efforts.
Kaylor explained that the students spent part of a day at the Patara Elephant Farm, where they learned to care for elephants, including communicating with them, checking their health, and washing them in a stream. The sanctuary, known for its focus on elephant rescue, recovery, and reproduction, provided students with an educational session on the farm’s long history and its commitment to natural elephant reproduction.
“This experience allowed students to connect with the elephants while also learning about the Karen people, a tribe dedicated to elephant care,” Kaylor said. “The sanctuary has been operating for over 30 years and remains a leader in elephant conservation efforts.”
The trip attracted students from various academic backgrounds, including communication majors, regional campus students, OHIO Online participants, and even a graduate student. Many students applied for scholarships to help offset the cost of the trip.
Tia Tucker, a junior communication major and OHIO Online student, shared her enthusiasm: “This trip has been an incredible experience, from bathing elephants at Patara Elephant Farm to learning about Buddhist traditions. Every moment was unforgettable. The combination of structured learning and free time made the adventure even more meaningful.”
The study abroad program, which was originally envisioned several years ago, aims to provide regional campus and OHIO Online students with opportunities to travel abroad and immerse themselves in different cultures. Although the program was initially approved in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed its realization, but it was successfully revived in recent years.
Kaylor emphasized the importance of such opportunities for students who may not typically have the chance to travel. “For many of our students, this is their first opportunity to leave their geographic area and learn about the world,” she said. “While study abroad can’t teach everything about a culture, it opens doors to lifelong exploration and cultural understanding.”
Senior criminal justice major Brenden Marcum, from Ohio University Eastern, reflected on his personal growth during the trip. “My goal was to gain a global perspective, experience Thai community life, and appreciate cultural practices,” Marcum said. “The experience has helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I look forward to applying these lessons as I work with diverse populations in criminal justice and beyond.”
This study abroad experience provided Ohio University students with the tools and insights necessary to navigate a globalized world, encouraging cultural empathy and a love for travel.
