Take a chance and make a change

Asian University students on the right, with their students

Netty teaches English

Tanes Rianglaem (Nate) is a 4^th yr BA student at Asian University. He and a few of his classmates recently joined an English teaching project at the Princess Sirindhorn vocational training center in Banglamung District. He writes about the project as follows:

Netty and her students get down to work.

Bim helps with pronounciation

“The three weeks of activity were run by the Liberal Arts students with close assistance from Ajarn Roy. It was such a great opportunity for Asian University students to contribute something back to the community by sharing their knowledge to others.

Asian University students (and Nate in the foreground) with their students

The first week of the project, the big group of interested students was divided into smaller groups. We asked them what their needs were and what they were interested to learn. Then we helped them with the basic daily conversation which they might face in their future workplace. After knowing what their needs are as well as their level of English, the Liberal Arts students prepared the teaching materials to meet students’ needs in each group. Pronunciation clinic, Conversation practice and variety of games were all implemented. On the second week, everything seems to be better. Our students felt more confident to speak English and extremely happy to learn new things.

Asian University students with their students and teacher Roy

The project has gone by so fast; we could clearly see that our students have done a great job. Every individual has gradually developed their English skills during the three weeks of activity. Regarding this project, we were not just teachers, but we are learners as well. We have learned how to teach, how to prepare class materials and how to talk to the students. We all have realized that being a teacher isn’t that easy, but it’s very challenging!

Yao (left) and First

Doing such an activity is not only benefit to those who have lack of opportunity. At the same time, we also gain something in return. Something that money can not buy, Something that we call “Happiness”. The smile of our students is a greatest gift we have ever received. It creates a great value to our hearts, challenge our ability, and build goodwill to the community.

Nate (left) and Nanny

After our graduation, we are looking forward to keep contributing these valuable things to our society, aiming to improve the quality of life of our community. Lastly, for those who are thinking about doing such activities, what are you waiting for “Take a chance and Make a Change!””First (left) and Yao help the students

Thanks to Ajarn Roy for the photos.