Before starting their final week of Foundations, students had a chance to go on their first academic hike to the iconic temple on Doi Suthep. Students were asked to write a reflection on a question that they formulated during the hike, providing them an opportunity to try out their writing and learning styles in a non-traditional setting. By completing a writing assignment before they embark on their first field course students were able to get feedback and guidance from field instructors.
Following the end of Foundations, students, staff, and host families gathered together for a Northern Thai themed evening filled with great food and student provided entertainment. With everyone decked out in traditional Northern Thai garb, we saw some impressive performances ranging from Thai and American songs to semi-traditional Thai dances to hula hooping and playing the recorder (at the same time!) and much more. The finale performance was a classic Thai song performed by all 31 students which they had a chance to practice with their Thai teachers over the previous week.
The evening also provided students a chance to spend one more memorable evening with their families before they got ready to leave their host families and move into apartments in Chiang Mai.
Transitioning from host families to apartments coincided with the start of the first Expedition Field Course (EFC) of the fall semester, Sustainable Food Systems with Ajaan Abram Bixler. Students received their course materials and first assignment on Friday. This first week of seminar allows students to read, discuss, and gain an understanding of the general topics before heading out to the field for the first time. Students will be split into two groups, with half starting with home stays in Mae Taa and half beginning at the Upland Holistic Development Project in Fang.
Check back soon for updates and photos of the Sustainable Food Systems course!
Students hike up the mountain on their way to Wat Doi Suthep.
Students enjoying a mid-day lunch break during their hike.
Monkia, Pi Tic, Pi Noi, Pi Toto, Janelle, Nicki, and Pi Pui strike some interesting poses before the performances start.
Peter hanging out with his nong chao (younger brother).
Alice and her host mother enjoying some food and conversation before the performances start.
Janelle and her host sister perform a fun, slightly jazzed-up version of a traditional Thai dance.
Ajaan Siton's Thai class of Casey, Meredith, Hish, Katherine, and Andrew perform a Thai song and skit.
Elaine shows impressive dexterity by hula-hooping and playing the recorder at the same time.
Nicki and Grace perform a traditional Thai dance with their host sisters.
All the students managed to fit (barely) on the stage for their finale group performance.
Ajaan Wilasanee's daughter practices the hand motions of she picked up from watching the traditional Thai dances.
