I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of this module, which has undoubtedly been a pivotal moment in my academic journey. Being a first-generation Pakistani, this experience was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will cherish forever. Despite the challenges I faced leading up to the trip, I am genuinely grateful for having been given this chance.
The concepts we explored during the module were brought to life during our visit to Bangkok, particularly the remarkable advancements in technology. Though Bangkok may not be as innovative as London, it is still a highly developed city with cutting-edge vending machines on every street corner, a well-connected transport system (the Sky Train), and apps like Grab that have made life so much easier for people. These technological innovations have the potential to improve the quality of life in many ways. We also learned about globalisation, which was evident in the menus of different fast-food chains and cafes. For instance, Thai tea is widely available in Thailand but not as easily accessible in London. Fast-food franchises like McDonald’s have different menus tailored to the Thai market.
One of the most significant takeaways for me was the concept of education beyond boundaries. We discussed the importance of kinaesthetic learning as opposed to learning in a classroom. This trip to Thailand taught me so much more than I could ever have learned in a classroom, from developing multiple skill sets to boosting confidence, broadening my perspectives of the world, encouraging teamwork, and applying theoretical knowledge practically. It also helped me to improve my social and communication skills.
The highlight of this module was undoubtedly the trip itself. I made friends that I never thought I would have met, and travelling so far from home for the first time was an awe-inspiring experience. I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity, and I hope that everyone else enjoyed it as much as I did. I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Farhang for making this opportunity possible. This module has had a profound positive impact on my education, making me appreciate the opportunities available to me in London and the support system provided by the university. I was particularly moved after learning about the mental health issues that students face at Kasetsart University. All in all, this module has been an incredible experience that has left a lasting impression on me, and I am genuinely sad to see it come to an end so soon!
Iqra Sethi