Assignment 1: Introduction

My name is Desreal Shorts, and I’m from Detroit, Michigan. I recently earned my BFA in Studio Arts and Crafts from the College for Creative Studies, and I also hold a BA degree in Sociology from the University of Florida. Before returning to school, I served in the U.S. military as a Builder (BU), an experience that taught me discipline, adaptability, and the importance of community.

I’ve decided to move to Thailand because it’s one of the few places where I’ve truly felt at peace. During my time there in the military, I fell in love with the people, the culture, and the food. I remember feeling grounded and healthy in a way I hadn’t experienced anywhere else. Thailand feels like a place where I can build a new sense of home—one that aligns with who I’ve grown into and where I’m headed.

One challenge I anticipate is the language barrier, but I plan to take Thai lessons and immerse myself in daily conversation. For me, learning the local language isn’t just practical—it’s a sign of respect and a doorway to genuine connection.

Ultimately, I hope this experience helps me grow both personally and creatively. I want to be part of a community that feels authentic and reciprocal—where I can contribute my skills and spirit while learning from the people around me. My goal is to build a life that feels intentional, connected, and deeply fulfilling.

Hi,

My name is Phill and I’m a Geography teacher from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. I’m 41 and have been teaching around 6 years and had many jobs before then including sales, hospitality, sports massage and youth work.
I am travelling to Thailand as it has been in the back of my mind for around a decade and feel this is good time to take a break from working in the UK and experience a different culture and one I have experienced before as a backpacker in 2008.
I expect that initially it’ll be a big adjustment in terms of language and culture but aim to be open minded, calm and enjoy what is on offer as I know Thailand has a lot to offer in terms of making connections, experiencing beautiful scenery and food and great weather!. I may struggle initially with the heat but hope to find ways to manage whether it be appropriate clothing or air con! I aim to be patient and take the positives out of each day and remember the reasons I am there.
I hope to show myself that I am still able to live independently without luxuries of being at home, learn a new culture and language, meet some fantastic people and of course be a great teacher of English 🙂

Hi there! My name is Helena. I am from the United States and for awhile now have lived by the beach, my favorite place to be. Straight out of High School, I joined the Navy and traveled all over the world. I ended up getting out after serving for 4 years in hopes of becoming an elementary teacher. Although life had different plans for me then, I feel like this is a full moment circle for me to now have the opportunity to full fill a dream of mine in this lifetime to teach. I am currently an Esthetician but look forward to working with kids again.
I decided to travel to Thailand to complete this program because I feel like when I traveled there a few years back, I left my heart there in hopes of returning so it’s the perfect place and time to do it. I love the people, the temples, the weather, the food, the culture, the beaches but mostly the respect and kindness. There isn’t much to not love about this country in my personal opinion! The only challenge I am nervous about since I have been there before is this time, communicating better. I want to learn more of the language, such as common phrases to overcome this and get the best experience. Thankfully, a smile and being respectful can go a long way there.
I am hoping to gain more growth and knowledge on this trip. I would like to not only immerse myself in the Thai culture but also with the people attending the program as well since they will be from all around the world with different backgrounds. I think it is important to learn about different ways of living and experience them if able. I aim to learn, give back and make beautiful memories with wonderful new people!

Hi Everyone,
My name is Stephen and I’m from Ireland. I have a Bachelors Degree in Computing. I’ve had jobs mostly in retail and administration with time spent volunteering as a sports coach.
I think the first difference I will notice when I arrive in Thailand will be the weather which is something I am looking forward to as I will be getting away from the cold, wind and rain of the Irish winter. Jumping straight into emerging myself in the language being patient and open minded will be a good starting point, while learning the basics beforehand to be prepared.
I hope to learn not only more about myself on this trip but everyone I encounter from Thailand, Asia and other parts of the world. So I feel like now is a good time to go out and explore new cultures, try new food and learn some more skills both in work and in life.

• This reply was modified 6 months ago by Stephen Breen.

Hi, my name is Chloe, I’m 35 and from London, UK. I have previously worked as a midwife and more recently in the charity sector working with women and children experiencing multiple disadvantages and complex trauma such as domestic violence and homelessness.
My brother has been working as an English teacher in Bangkok for the last 8 years and now has a wife and 2-week-old baby! Because of this I have been lucky enough to visit Thailand a few times and see the sort of lifestyle I would be able to have as an English teacher here. I enjoy supporting others and working with children so I’m hoping this will be a great fit. I would still like to travel a lot more and am hoping that this course will enable me to teach all over the world.
My biggest challenge will probably be public speaking! I hoping throughout the course, little by little I can push myself to increase my confidence in this.
Although my main goal is to gain a TEFL certification, I really enjoy meeting new people and would love to make some friends on the course to make the trip really memorable!

Hi! My name is Rob I am 55 years old and I am from the USA. In my 20’s as a college student I attended Semester at Sea. That experience was so profound that I knew one day would return to South East Asia. I learned of the opportunity to teach English in Thailand and the rest is as they say History as I am here in Hua Hin as I write this profile. I am a little nervous about the language barrier but figure my good nature and positive attitude will overcome this barrier I hope to learn Thai as a way to really immerse myself into the culture and not just be seen as a tourist. I look forward to teaching here in Thailand and becoming a positive influence in many students lives. I look forward to meeting the folks in this program and learning from them as well as the instructors.

Hello, my name is Ashley, and I previously worked as a Merchandise Manager at Ulta Beauty. I was born in New York and raised in Florida, and along the way I’ve been fortunate to travel to different places across the United States. Throughout my life, I’ve naturally gravitated toward caring for children, friends, and family, while also embracing the joy of learning something new every day. Growing up with a younger brother who has OCD and who spoke later than most taught me the value of consistency, patience, and practice—reminders that with dedication, we can all continue to grow and learn. I’ve decided to move to Thailand to immerse myself in its culture, spirituality, and the freedom of experiencing life in a new way. I’ve always been drawn to Thai traditions, especially the beauty of its temples and the sense of peace that Buddhism inspires. One challenge I anticipate is adjusting to the food, as I can be a bit of a picky eater. However, my love for cooking makes me excited to explore local markets and experiment with new flavors, turning this challenge into an opportunity. Ultimately, I hope this journey helps me grow both personally and spiritually. I want to continue learning each day, becoming more open to life’s possibilities, and embracing experiences with curiosity rather than seriousness. I look forward to meeting everyone and beginning this program with enthusiasm and gratitude.