How to Thrive in Your First Week Teaching in Thailand

All the months of preparation, frustrating visa delays, and tearful goodbyes have finally paid off – your journey abroad has finally begun! Whether you took two flights or five, you’ve travelled across the world to start your dream. So, what comes next?

Your first week will be a whirlwind of cultural surprises, long orientation sessions, paperwork, and learning to navigate life halfway across the world. It is far too common that the anticipation that has been built up turns straight into nerves. 

Here are some simple tips to help you not just survive your first week, but to fully dive in and live it!  

1. No expectations, just preparation 

Moving abroad is the definition of uncertainty, and it is tempting to plan every single detail. However, rigid plans can take away from your experience and leave you disappointed. You can be prepared without expectations. Do the practical things beforehand, like exchanging cash, getting a SIM card, and having emergency contacts ready. At the same time, forget what you know about North American classrooms to better adapt to the Thai education system. Instead of focusing on what “should” be happening according to your plan, try to be present in what is happening around you. 

2. Be gentle with yourself 

The first few weeks will be anything but simple, and you are bound to feel a wide range of emotions. Bring some artifacts that remind you of home to ease the transition and help with the homesickness you will probably encounter. Allow yourself to sit with your emotions, be kind to yourself, and take small steps forward. This might mean surrounding yourself with new friends, exploring your neighbourhood, or spending time journaling and reflecting. Only you know what’s best for you! 

3. Say yes! 

Before I left, a very wise person told me to say yes to everything (within reason of course.) Especially if you are in a country for the first time, simply saying yes allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture, build connections, and make unexpected memories. For Thai culture specifically, community is a huge aspect, so it is important to put yourself out there and accept invitations whenever they are offered to you. 

4. Embrace the mai pen rai mentality

This is a common Thai phrase that means “it’s okay”, or “never mind”. It reflects the Thai culture of unending patience and going with the flow. However, this means that unexpected changes can occur with little to no notice. Being able to quickly adapt can be harder than you expect, especially as we are so used to the “hustle culture” that is driven into us in North America. Adopting the mai pen rai mentality will improve your attitudes towards coworkers, reduce stress, and encourage you to fully enjoy the experience.

5. Passport privilege

In Thailand, being a teacher is one of the most respected roles in society. As foreign teachers, you are often regarded with additional admiration based on the new perspectives and skills you bring. Remind yourself of your privilege and how lucky you are to have the opportunity to teach these students! Share your love of your native language and country while also being equally as excited to learn about your new home. 

6. Remember your why

Teaching abroad is going to be one of the most demanding yet rewarding experiences of your life. During the first week you will realize it is more than just planning and teaching lessons; it is adjusting to a new culture, managing a classroom of energetic students, and finding your own balance in a new environment. Remembering why you started this journey in the first place can help you find the strength and motivation to get through harder days!