Barbara's Gains

Academic Gains

As far as academic gains go, I was happy that we were able to work hands on with the environment. My favorite experience with hands on work in an academic setting was when we did our Biodiversity Lab in Chumphon Beach. Having the opportunity to go out and search for different animals and being able to interact with these creatures as well as their habitat was very interesting. Having this opportunity made me realize that I would like to continue to work with a hands on opportunity with different projects and studies. It gave me more motivation to want to experience what I am learning with actual life examples, instead of what I am accustomed to like videos and just textbooks. 

I also gained insight on different methods of evaluation that we practiced during various lectures and workshop type activities. Having had these methods gave me a different perspective on analytical methods. I plan on using these type of evaluation methods in the future with different studies and projects I will be doing. 

Cultural Gains

Culturally, I learned a lot about the Thai culture, from their religion, food, customs, generalized personality, to their language. Being exposed to their completely different culture gave me an insight as to how I could better communicate with people that I met. We were exposed to different aspects of their lives, that I feel regular tourist might not be able to experience. For example, we learned how to cook different meals with their different ingredients. We learned about the culture and their beliefs about Buddah. We experienced different personality traits among different people. For example, children versus adults. Having the opportunity to learn their language also gave us a greater insight, because communication is key to being able to fully understand a particular culture. We also were able to experience the very touristic part of Thailand, when we were in Phuket. For example the diverse amount of sexual interactions that occur, which is very different from the typical Thai conservative custom. I think the best knowledge I gained, as far as Thai culture goes, is that they are very nice people willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. I feel like this is a wonderful trait that more cultures should adapt and practice. 

Personal Gains

There were many personal experiences that I went through, which were all amazing. One of my biggest personal gains was realizing how people who do not know each other, coming from different lifestyles and cultures, from different ages, can come together and help other communities in need. I also learned a couple of Thai words which I had fun teaching my friends at home. I also was able to learn about a culture that I never thought I would be exposed to. 

Another personal gain was learning a lot more about the environment, and how there are a lot of people fighting for a more sustainable world. I had never been too interested in the environment, and usually did the basics to help out like simple recycling. But now I find myself being a lot more considerate, and making everyone around me aware that we should all be more sustainable for the better of our own environment.