As the time for the trip to Thailand gets closer, I’ve been thinking a lot about what I expect from the experience and what I hope to learn. Even though I’ve travelled before, this trip feels completely different—mainly because I’ve never been outside Europe. The idea of stepping so far beyond what’s familiar is both exciting and a little overwhelming, but in the best possible way.
One of my biggest expectations is to see and experience the culture firsthand rather than through lectures or videos. I’m imagining vibrant street markets, new foods, and the kind of day-to-day moments that you can’t really prepare for until you’re there. I’m expecting challenges too: adjusting to a new climate, a different pace of life, and cultural norms I’m not used to. But I’m genuinely excited for that. I want to notice how my own assumptions shift as I navigate a place that will likely feel completely different from anywhere I’ve been before.
I’m also carrying certain perceptions about Thailand: that it’s warm, energetic, community-oriented, and rich in cultural traditions. But I know these ideas are shaped by media and second-hand stories, so I’m curious to see what the reality is. I’m especially looking forward to meeting the Thai students—we’ve heard so much about them already, and I can’t wait to learn more about what life looks like from their perspective. I think connecting with them will be one of the most meaningful parts of the trip.
My learning goals are both academic and personal. Academically, I want to engage with real-world examples that link back to my studies and understand how local culture and environment influence daily life and social structures. Personally, I hope to build more confidence in travelling far from home, develop stronger intercultural communication skills, and become more aware of my own cultural assumptions. Since this is my first time outside Europe, I’m hoping the experience helps expand my worldview in ways I can’t fully predict yet.
Overall, I’m approaching this trip with curiosity and an open mind. I know I’ll learn things I’m not expecting, and that’s exactly what makes the experience so exciting. Thailand feels like the perfect place to challenge myself, broaden my perspective, and grow both academically and personally. I’m eager to arrive and discover what the journey holds.
Julia Kawecka