Greetings from Thailand

Tell us a little something about yourself?

My name is Hataitip Jirathun. Most people call me Tor, it’s my nickname. I’m an exchange faculty from Bangkok University, Thailand. At this university, I’m the Head of Student Services and International Exchange of Bangkok University International College. My main responsibility is to take care of exchange students, both inbound and outbound.

How long are you staying and how did you end up coming to SAMK?

I’ve arrived Finland since January 7 and will be here until March 25. So, basically I’ll be here for about 3 months. Bangkok University and SAMK have been partners for years and in fact I’m the 7th faculty who’s here to teach at SAMK. I’m also here under the ASEM-DUO scholarship which is a two-way exchange of faculty between two educational institutions, one from Europe and the other from Asia.

What are your tasks in SAMK?

My main job is teaching Public Relations course at Pori (Lipo) twice a week. In addition, I’m invited to visit classrooms and meet with students in different campuses to talk about Thailand, Thai culture, cross-cultural communication, studying in Thailand, and studying at Bangkok University. So, I’ve been to Rauma, Huittinen, Kankaanpaa, and Pori (Sotepo).

Can you tell some similarities and differences between studying and students in Thailand and in Finland?

I’d say that most Finnish and Thai students are quite similar. They are a little bit quiet, shy, and rarely ask questions in the class. But, when insisted, they can speak up and answer questions. I have to act a lot to get them involved, smile and laugh. So, even though I love interactions in a classroom, lecture based is quite common in a classroom. One main difference that I always have to tell Finnish students is that they will have to wear a student uniform if they want to go study in Thailand.

Have you enjoyed your stay here. What has been the biggest surprise?

I was in the US for 3 years, two years for my Master’s and one year for my Ph.D. So, I’d experienced snow and cold weather before. But, honestly I was a bit shocked with the weather when I first got here. Coming from +35c in Bangkok to -20c in Helsinki is quite something. I actually got cold hives all over my face on the second day from a walking trip between City Market and my apartment in Rauma. At first, I didn’t even know what they are until looking up on google. Luckily they’re gone the next morning. And, believe it or not, now I’m getting used to the weather here!!

Of course, I like it here. I’ve received a super warm hospitality from SAMK family wherever I go. And, though not many Finnish speak English, they are very very helpful. In fact, I think this is a good way for me to learn to speak some Finnish. The food is great and the towns are beautiful. I wish I could come back here again during Summer.

Any greetings you’d like to say to SAMK staff reading your interview.

First of all, I’d like to encourage everyone to take part in an exchange program if they have a chance. I lived in the States for 3 years and I’ve traveled to more than 10 countries. But still I have learned a lot more from this program and in fact it’s made me stronger even though I thought I was. It gives me more energy and belief that I still can do a lot of things.

And, lastly, if you happen to go to Bangkok some days, please contact me. I’d be happy to welcome and show you around.

Text: Anna-Maria Moisio

Photo: Elina Viitanen