The students forgave me; the admin staff never did
Postbox letter from Neil (still waiting for photocopies)
The students know me, the parents like me, the director shakes my hand at every ceremony (mostly because he thinks I’m someone else, but still). On paper, I’m settled. But there’s one wound that never healed: Admin Office, Level 2.
A foreign woman in the Thai workplace
If you’re a woman thinking of working in Thailand, don’t worry if things feel unfamiliar at first.
Over time, I noticed that the Thai teachers appreciated when I asked questions respectfully and showed that I wanted to learn, not just change everything.
Why I stopped smiling at the school director
Pay me on time. Treat me like a professional. Stop using me as a mascot. Then maybe you’ll see some teeth.
I’m Louise. I’m 34. I’ve been teaching in Thailand for six years. And I’m tired of pretending everything is “sabai sabai” when I’m being treated like a decorative plant.
Is making Thai friends easy or impossible?
Postbox letter from Cathy
Is making local friends in Thailand actually hard, or am I just going about it the wrong way?
How to deal with 'teaching in Thailand' culture shock
What to do when suddenly nothing makes any sense.
Culture shock isn’t always dramatic, It can be quiet and exhausting. It can make you question why you ever thought teaching in Thailand was a good idea.
Why do technical school students fight in Thailand?
In Thailand, fights between students from rival technical colleges have been happening for years.
Movies, TV shows, and social media often glamorize technical students as tough and rebellious, making fighting seem cool. Some students see it as a way to earn respect or boost their reputation.
Are things getting better for black teachers?
Postbox letter from Lee
For years, black teachers faced significant barriers when applying for TEFL jobs in Thailand. Schools often prioritized white, native-speaking teachers due to the stereotype about how an English teacher "should" look.
The making of a good true Thai
Towards a new patriarchy and an inclusive nationalism
With the recent change in government, now would be a good time for Thais to take their country back. Any time would be a good time for Thais to take their country back.
Go for the adventure, not to try and change things
Postbox letter from Jey
Go for the adventure, go to travel, enjoy and work hard but don't expect to make a difference to Thai society.
Captain Thailand inspired myths
Are certain Thai characteristics often inaccurate and overpraised?
When all is said and done, my school students are among the most engaging, fun-loving characters you could ever wish to meet. Whilst they are predominantly pragmatic in their attitudes towards diversity, they are generally genuine in their beliefs about equality.
