The start of a study-abroad semester at ISDSI is full of intensive Thai language, academic seminars (sustainability, history, ecology, etc.), and lots of experiential learning opportunities to get out in the field and use the language, start to learn about ecology and sustainability, etc.

Here are a few photo sets of three fun — and important — parts of the first few weeks during our Foundations course:

Rock climbing — This is a great day climbing, learning about working together as a team, and starting to develop the leadership and teamwork skills that will be critical to success on the Expedition Field Courses.

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Retreat at Mok Fa waterfall — Each semester we do a retreat, which includes an open water swim assessment, getting to know each other (students and staff), learning about risk and responsibility, how to manage emergencies in the field, and lots of free time and games.

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Host family farewell — The Foundations course ends with a farewell “kantoke” dinner with our host families and students.  While there is some traditional dancing, in recent years there has been a lot of host families teaching the American students to do Thai dances — which is a lot of fun for all!

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