Meet the Blogger: Sophie!
Authored By:
Hello! Sawasdee kha!
My name is Sophie Sietz. I am from Rockland, New York. I am (newly) 23 years old, I just graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor's degree in International Affairs, and I can’t believe I'm saying this, but I just moved to Thailand to teach English for 6 months!
I just wanted to post a little intro before I get into the bigger tips, tricks, stories, advice that I will gather throughout my time here!
I am not a stranger to traveling. I began my first semester of my first year of college studying abroad in Valencia, Spain. This was my first time out of the country, and my parents say that after I came home, they knew they’d lost me to “the world.” So dramatic.
About Me & My Experience
In addition to travelling, I love to sing, write, go to the beach, go to music festivals, pilates and spin classes (Still looking for some in Thailand) and try new foods. I chose CIEE’s teach in Thailand program because it was the perfect way to balance travel and getting some work experience while also making some money now that I have some free time after graduating.
I had very little teaching experience before I decided to teach full-time in Thailand. I taught a freshman interest group at my university for 50 minutes once a week, but that was nothing like what I am doing now. I decided to get an online TEFL course over the summer before I arrived, which I highly recommend, as you’ll get a higher salary and it will likely make you feel a bit more prepared. Every placement is different. I am placed at Eastern College of Technology (E. Tech), which is a private vocational college in the province of Chonburi, about an hour and a half from Bangkok. I teach second-year students, who are around 16/17 years old.
So Far...
So far, I have had a wild ride. My first week was hard, I will admit. Culture shock is real, especially when you are jetlagged and the only American in your town…but it's a journey, and we all start somewhere. Two weeks ago, I had no idea if I’d still be here by now. Today, just two weeks later, I am embracing the journey, bonding with my co-teachers, making friends with people I’ve met on Facebook groups and travel apps, and I just went on my first weekend trip to Pattaya, and I'm starting to plan more trips with some of the other amazing teachers I met at orientation!
In just two weeks, I feel like I’ve grown so much, and I already know that this experience will shape me in ways I can’t even imagine yet. As I continue to settle in, I am so excited to learn new ways of teaching English to non-native speakers, immerse myself in Thai culture, try new foods, and travel to some of the most beautiful places that many people from the U.S. have only seen on Pinterest. If you’d like to follow me along on my journey, I will be posting on the CIEE blog, and feel free to reach out to me via Instagram! @sophiesietz
Related Posts
Thailand Through the Eyes of My 12th Grade Thai Students
What makes Thailand truly unique beyond its temples and street food? In this reflection, my 12th grade students in Thailand share what their country looks like from the inside — not as a tourist destination, but as home. Through their honest words, we see how Thai culture balances tradition and modern life, how respect, family values, and kindness shape daily experiences. Their perspectives offer an authentic glimpse into Thai society through the eyes of the next generation.
How Schools Shape Students in Thailand: A word from my students
What does school truly teach beyond textbooks and exams? In this reflection, three Thai students offer an inside look at how education shapes not only their academic futures, but their character and identity. Through their voices, we see that Thai schools function as more than places of learning — they are spaces where discipline, ambition, cultural pride, and respect are carefully cultivated. From the belief that education determines one’s future, to the daily practice of courtesy and social harmony, these students reveal how Thai education prepares young people not just for university, but for life. Their perspectives offer a powerful reminder that schools reflect the values of the society they serve.
My Halfway Mark: 5 Things I've Learned Teaching In Thailand
At the halfway point of my journey teaching in Thailand, I’ve realized this experience is about far more than lesson plans and classrooms. It is about adaptability, humility, courage, and connection. In this reflection, I share the five most important lessons I’ve learned so far, from learning to “be like water” in moments of uncertainty to saying yes to opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone. This is not just advice for teachers in Thailand. It is a reminder that when you give your whole heart to a community, embrace growth, and choose courage daily, the experience will transform you in ways you never expected.