“I wanted to experience head on what Asia had in store”
Jost studied abroad at Prince of Songkla University in Phuket, Thailand in autumn 2016. Read his interview below.
What’s your name and where do you come from?
My name is Josh May. I live in the Boston area and I study Computer Information Systems and English.
Where did you spend your exchange semester?
Phuket, Thailand
Why did you choose to study in Asia, and your destination in particular?
I studied in Asia because I wanted the whole culture shock experience. I wanted to experience, head on, what Asia had in store.
Did the experience meet your expectations?
Yes!
What were the highlights of your exchange?
The biggest highlight for me was the tight-knit international community. I arrived just knowing one person but within a week all the international student were friends. I got to become best friends with people from Germany, France, Finland, Switzerland, England, and many Asian countries.
How would you summarize your exchange experience?
A great adventure.
How did you get the study place? What was the application procedure like?
The application process was very simple and quick. At first I thought the program was a fake because of how easy it was.
Which were the most interesting topics in your studies?
The most interesting topic I had was intercultural communications with Ajarn (professor) Colin. He’s a fun teacher and has great advice.
What kind of accommodation did you have and how much was the monthly cost?
For the first month I lived in a housing complex in a woodsy area – Delight Village. It cost 20,000 Baht ($570) per month with 3 people. The rest of the trip we lived in a place called Passorn for 30,000 baht ($850) per month with 5 people.
What were your normal days like while living in Asia?
A normal day consisted of driving to school on my moped, hitting Thums for lunch – one of the local restaurant next to the school – then either kicking it back with roommates or exploring the island.
What kind of things did you learn about Asia and your destination?
I learned a lot about how Asian people view the world- the Sabi Sabi (relaxed) mindset. But also surprisingly how all of us are really similar.
What kind of things did you learn about yourself?
How easy and how much fun traveling is.
In your opinion, why should people go to study in Asia?
People should go study in Asia because it is an entirely different world than the normal western lifestyle. It can’t be summarized in a couple sentences but if want to call, hit me up!
Did you have a chance to travel during your stay?
Not much. I went to Malaysia once during the trip but that was just because my visa expired. Exploring Phuket was enough.
How did you experience the application and acceptance procedure?
The whole procedure was extremely easy. I remember doing it and then soon after being accepted.
What are your greetings to Asia Exchange?
Asia Exchange is a great company! They are very personal and willing to help with any concern. They also host events and have faculty present for advice.
Would you recommend this study program to other students?
Absolutely!
A free word for any student considering going abroad?
Don’t overlook Asian countries. When my friends think about studying abroad, they mostly think of European countries. Asia is amazing! It has some many hidden gems and wonders. Give it a try!
Find out more about foreign exchange student programs in Asia
