Submitted by Madison D’Amico on the 2017 winter session program in Australia and Thailand sponsored by the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics…
Five days in Bangkok, Thailand and I have never had a more culture shocking experience. It all began with the bus ride from the airport to the hotel. I immediately noticed the amount of poverty and the differences in lifestyles. Passing houses, the size of a freshman dorm with a roof that was caving in, I could not be more grateful for the place I am from. I observed that many people walk around without shoes and in ragged clothing. One thing I thoroughly love about Thailand so far is that no matter how much or how little someone has, they are always smiling and in high spirits. I was informed that the Buddhist religion is all about receiving good karma and that people are born into a life that they deserve based on actions in their previous lives. Since this is their belief about life, their outlook on the world is more positive and they embrace and appreciate what they have. The Thai people take great pride in work regardless of the career. In America, certain jobs are given a negative connotation and the employees express that during their job, but you will never find this in Thailand. Finally, regardless of the language barrier, they are always trying to accommodate situations for tourists and they are willing to learn. I have had nothing, but great experiences in my first week and I am thrilled for the journey ahead!
