Apr 13 2009 / YES Students in Thailand Prepare for their American Adventure

by Shirani Tapananonta, AFS Thailand

Twenty YES and 5 students from US Embassy scholarship programs participated in a Language & Culture Course organized by AFS Thailand as part of pre-departure orientation. The students, who were recently selected as scholarship winners for 2009-10 programs, took the course at AUA (American University Alumni Language Center), Bangkok, during March 22-27, 2009.

Mr. Sanan Angubolkul, AFS Thailand Chairman, and Mr. John Paul Schutte, Cultural Affairs Officer from the US Embassy, gave a warm welcome to the students, their natural parents and US host families who attended the opening ceremony.

The students stayed with US families residing in Bangkok. This was their first step to become exchange students in the USA. During the course at AUA, they practiced and learned 4 major skills: computer presentations, video project, US history & geography and Language & Culture.

At the ending ceremony on 27 March, we had the honor of receiving H.E. Eric G. John, the US Ambassador, who attended the function as our Chair of the event. The students had a wonderful opportunity to receive their certificates from the US Ambassador.

After the long good-bye, the students joined a small function for the program evaluation. The discussion covered how the students had adapted to the new host families and inquiries about religion, among other topics. The following day was a special program for the students to visit the Grand Palace, Ratanakosin Island and the Siam Museum. The purpose of this trip was to educate the students about Thai Heritage which would be useful for their presentation preparations.

This project first started in 2006 when AFS Thailand joined the YES scholarship. This year also marked as the 4th successful year for all students who participate in the program.

Related Links:
US Ambassador Meets YES Class of 2009-10