Submitted by Cassidy Pieper on the 2020 winter session program in Australia and Thailand sponsored by the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics…
This week, we arrived in Bangkok and I was immediately immersed in the culture from the first day. Everyone was very welcoming and always had a smile on their face. I learned how to greet others, a slight bow called the wai followed by saying hello in Thai. The city was similar to U.S. cities which I found comfort in, even though I am across the country, there are still so many aspects I can relate to. The first place we visited was the Grand Palace. These temples were the most breath-taking, intricate buildings I have ever seen. Just by walking through, I got a real sense of how important religion is to the Thais. I also learned many interesting facts about how their religion translates to how they conduct their everyday life.
We also visited many companies in Bangkok which opened my eyes to all of the opportunities for growth throughout the country. It was especially interesting to hear from companies like PWC who I am familiar with in the U.S. and how they operate in comparison to how the branches in the U.S. run.
Lastly, we had an excursion at the floating markets. We were in a canoe shaped boat and floated through the canal where there were different vendors on the sides. This is where I got to know many of the Thailand citizens a little bit better as we talked to them on the boat and in the different shops. One of the key takeaways I got from spending time with the locals was that universally, a smile and a positive demeanor goes a long way.
