I just arrived at Chiang Mai International Airport to study International Development in Thailand with MSID (Minnesota Studies in International Development). My study abroad program organized a group flight that began in Minnesota, but I was based in a different state so I joined the group on our layover at Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our field instructors with jasmine flower necklaces which was something done in Thai culture. To get to our place of stay, we rode in a truck that is commonly known as a “roht daeng” which translates to red car in Thai. It is a very common means of transport in Chiang Mai. We were all very super tired after our journey so we settled in and slept the jetlag away.
Best,
Namugga Nakayiza
This was journaled while I was abroad but due to limited internet access, I couldn’t post them at the exact moment. Recorded on 8/25/23.
Pictures were captured in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I took an interterm course abroad during my Spring Break in 2023 where I studied Social Justice & Photography.
In what city & country is your study abroad program located?
Chiang Mai, Thailand
What is something you would like the blog readers to know about you that they wouldn’t know by just looking at you?
Something I’d like the blog readers to know about me that they wouldn’t know by just looking at me is that I am someone who comes from a family that settled in the U.S. My family migrated to the U.S. from Uganda and I previously lived abroad when I was younger. I have also travelled to several countries throughout my lifetime. I really enjoy traveling and aspire to see the entire world.
What is one thing that you are most anticipating about your study abroad experience?
One thing I am most anticipating about my study abroad experience is observing the similarities and differences between Thai culture and my own personal culture. I can’t wait to indulge in a community with different foods, ways of communication, and forms of respect. It’s also going to be really interesting to see how media and society influence how they perceive me.
Why did you decide to study abroad? or What inspired you to study abroad?
I decided to study abroad because I want to explore the world. I chose Thailand as my country to visit because I’ve never been to the continent of Asia and I’ve always been intrigued with Thai culture. Thailand is really fascinating to me because there’s a huge influence it has on American restaurant culture and yet its history is not talked about often. I was inspired by my mother’s love for traveling to study abroad. As an International Studies major, this program would also be beneficial for me considering I aspire to work for a Non-Governmental Organization. Studying abroad will allow me the chance to further understand my studies and broaden my perspective.
Pictures were captured in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I took an interterm course abroad during my Spring Break in 2023 where I studied Social Justice & Photography.
