M.A. student Marie Walther reports about her semester abroad at Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand. In the following article, she writes about her experiences and her courses at the College of Management, describes the differences to studying in Germany and gives tips for still undiscovered destinations around Bangkok.
"Mai Pen Rai" - the Thai philosophy of life
When choosing my Master's program, the option of a semester abroad was already a decisive reason for choosing accadis, as I had not had the opportunity of a longer stay abroad before. My personal goal was to live a completely different life than in Germany for a few months. Bangkok was definitely the right choice for me! Thailand's capital is anything but what I was used to in Germany. Besides culture shock and bustling streets, I was allowed to get to know the inspiring Thai culture and way of life, new friends, the best food and exciting places during the four months. A philosophy of life and also one of the most important Thai proverbs is "Mai Pen Rai", which means "Don't worry and go with the flow". This proverb describes the Thai way very well.
What many do not know: Every Thai is given a nickname by their parents at birth, in addition to their "regular" name, which often has no connection at all to their main name.
Mahidol University and the College of Management
Mahidol University is one of the most prestigious universities in Thailand and offers numerous degree programs. I attended the College of Management (CMMU), which has a small campus in downtown Bangkok and offers Bachelor's and Master's degree programs in management. Since the CMMU is not an accadis partner university, the agency College Contact took over the administrative part for me. The application was uncomplicated and the communication with the university abroad - both during the application process and during the semester - was great. In general, I really appreciated the familiar atmosphere, which I am also used to at accadis. Whether by phone, email or via Line (the Thai equivalent of WhatsApp) - a contact person from the office was always easy to reach. There are also parallels to accadis in terms of course size, which was usually only about 20 students. I thought that was great because it gave us the opportunity to get in closer contact with the local students.
At the beginning of the semester, we exchange students were shown the main campus in the other part of Bangkok during the orientation days and were introduced to the Mahidol history and Thai culture. There was also a theme party and small get-togethers throughout the semester.
Lectures and Courses at CMMU
Since most Thai students also work full time during their full-time studies, the Master's lectures take place during the week from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. as well as during the day on weekends. However, there are usually two sessions per week for each course, so you can schedule them to fit your personal schedule. For example, I had lectures every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Basically, I found the range of courses to be very extensive - there is definitely something for everyone. I took the courses: Project Management, Product Development and Business Planning. In each course, group work is the order of the day and I would personally classify the workload for intermediate exams and the final exams as average: Definitely very doable with some diligence.
Some not overwhelming leisure time tips and travel destinations in Thailand
Bangkok is huge and therefore has a lot to offer. From historic temples and rooftop bars with breathtaking views of the city to night markets with the best food, it's all here!
My recommendations that are not typical tourist activities:
- Bike tour through Bang Kachao and visit the Floating Market.
- Visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Center
- Enjoy a Thai band (e.g. Hybs or the Parkinson)
- Thai Barbecue "Muh Ka Ta"
Thailand is a beautiful country! In order to have enough time to travel, I recommend choosing courses in blocks. This way you can make the most of your time north is highly recommended), Koh Larn (outside the high season you are completely among locals here), Ayutthaya, Koh Chang and Koh Phi Phi.
Conclusion
To anyone/anyone considering Bangkok as a destination for their semester abroad, I highly recommend doing it! I had one of the best times of my life during my study abroad semester and was able to personally take back home an immense amount.
My tip: Try to adapt to the Thai lifestyle, get to know the culture, enjoy the street food and get to know the people!
Marie Walther, Digital Business Strategy 2023