After arriving Thursday and Thursday night, students came to ISDSI for a shared meal and orientation to Thai culture and living with host families. (A more extensive orientation will continue next week.)

For the next five weeks, students will be living with a host family while commenting to the institute to study intensive Thai, participate in seminars about Thai society and culture, and explore the city and surrounding areas.

Becoming culturally competent is an important part of the program, as students learn both the language and culture of their new host country. The time in Chiang Mai is important, as they build lasting friendships and relationships with their new Thai families, learn how to live and thrive in a new pace, and prepare for the Expedition Field Courses to come.

-Mark