Scripps College professor co-leads study abroad trip to Thailand over winter break

Scripps College of Communication Professor of Instruction Pam Kaylor, along with additional Ohio University professors, staff and 10 students, celebrated the start of the new year in Thailand as part of a 10-day experiential learning study abroad trip. The program included visits to both the rural mountains of Chiang Mai in the north and the bustling major city life of Bangkok. The trip was co-directed by Kaylor, a communication studies professor on the Lancaster Campus, Thai Language Associate Professor Pittaya Paladroi-Shane and Southeast Asian Subject Librarian Jeffrey Shane. New Assistant Director of Global Security, Health and Safety Joe Wakeley also went on the trip.

“This study abroad, like other programs, is a once in a lifetime opportunity for students to learn through experiential learning,” said Kaylor. “Unlike a ‘vacation'...study abroad programs like this offer an opportunity for deeper learning about other cultures by engaging with people who are different but also like them.”

“This program not only allows Ohio University students to develop a better understanding of Thailand and Thai culture but its relations with the Southeast Asian region and the U.S. The program debunks myths about Thailand and introduces the core values and norms practiced by the Thais,” said Paladroi-Shane. “The knowledge and experiences cultivated from the hands-on activities and sightseeing help them broaden their perspectives and worldviews.”

Highlights of the trip included visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a stunning temple with the iconic seven-headed serpent statues that line the grand staircase; exploring Ayutthaya’s Historic Monasteries; a community service project at Moradokmai Theatre Community & Homeschool where students made a meaningful impact while connecting with the local community; and volunteering at an elephant sanctuary where the group engaged with locals and elephants, learning about vital conservation efforts firsthand.

“Students spent half a day taking care of elephants, learning how to communicate with them, checking their health, washing them in the stream, and feeding them,” said Kaylor. “At the end, students enjoyed a personal Q&A and lecture with the owner or main guide for the elephant sanctuary. This elephant farm has the theme of Rescue. Recovery. Reproduction. Reintroduction. They are one of the leading elephant farms for reproduction of baby elephants naturally meaning no artificial insemination. The students learned about the Karen people, a tribe which takes care of the elephants. The farm has been in existence for more than 30 years.”

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Students from a variety of colleges and majors participated in the trip, including the Scripps College of Communication. A regional campus student, an OHIO Online student and a graduate student also went on the trip. Many of the students applied for scholarships to cover much of the cost.

“This trip to Thailand has been an incredible, immersive experience of Thai culture,” said Tia Tucker, a junior communication major OHIO Online student. “From bathing elephants in their habitat at Patara Elephant Farm to learning about Buddhist traditions, every moment has been unforgettable. We’ve also had the perfect balance of structured learning and free time to explore the city on our own, which made the adventure even more meaningful.”

According to Kaylor, this study abroad was created several years ago when they wanted to do a study abroad specifically including regional campus students. They were originally approved to take students in 2020, however, COVID canceled that opportunity and in the last few years it was able to be revived. 

"It’s a great opportunity for regional campus and OHIO Online students because many of our students never travel outside their geographic area to learn about the world," Kaylor said. "While a study abroad won’t teach them all they need to know about another culture, it offers a very unique opportunity to start a journey of exploration and lifelong learning. Our personal hopes are that it encourages them to understand others through cultural competence and cultural empathy to become a citizen of the world and develop a love of travel.” 

“My goals for this study abroad were to gain a global perspective, to experience Thai community life and to appreciate cultural practices,” said Brenden Marcum, a senior criminal justice major at Ohio University Eastern. “I am excited I had the opportunity to grow personally and professionally. I look forward to integrating my experiences and lessons to shape my future in working with diverse populations in criminal justice and beyond.”

To learn more about study abroad programs at Ohio University visit ohio.edu/goglobal