PROGRAM PHOTO ALBUM
Thanks for the checking out the blog for this Global Leadership Adventures program!
Here are a few things to know and expect:
- Blog posts are written by onsite program staff and/or students and sent to our Headquarters team who will post the blog on this page.
- We typically receive 2-3 blog updates per week from each program, so please don’t be alarmed if you don’t see a blog post every day – that’s totally normal.
- Blog updates received late in the evening or overnight will be posted the following day.
- Blog updates received on weekends may not be posted until Monday.
- Due to many factors such as internet accessibility, program staff aren’t always able to send photos, so some blog posts may contain text only.
Thank you for your patience and understanding, and we hope you enjoy following along on these unforgettable adventures.
For frequently asked questions about the blogs, please visit our Program Blog FAQ page.
-The Global Leadership Adventures HQ Team
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BLOG POST FOR JULY 17
สวัสดีค่ะ! (Sawasdee ka!)
Welcome to the Thailand: Career Exploration in Health & Hospitals Internship Blog: July 17
We’re so excited to kick off this journey and share the incredible experiences we’ll have over the next 21 days. From hospital rotations to guest speakers, our students will get hands-on insight into the medical field while immersing themselves in Thai culture.
Along the way, we’ll explore Bangkok and Chiang Mai, visit an elephant sanctuary, try our hand at Thai cooking, take a traditional Muay Thai class, and relax on the beaches of Koh Samet. We’ll also spend meaningful time in the local community, learning about healthcare systems, shadowing professionals, and participating in service projects.
Half of our group arrived by 5 PM today. We spent time at our hotel getting to know each other. Today, we shared our first meals together—classic Thai dishes that everyone enjoyed. We weren’t all able to take a full group photo, as Leela, Elspeth, Lydia, Eastyn, Keiran, and Jordan either arrived late or haven’t arrived at our homebase yet. We will be sure to take our first full group photo when we are all together.
The group is already showing great energy and curiosity. We’re looking forward to watching friendships grow and witnessing the impact this experience will have on each student.
Let the adventure begin!
With excitement,
Gina, Jayme, Victor, Wad, Todd, and the Thailand Team
BLOG POST FOR JULY 18
Today was our first full day in Thailand! After a nice breakfast we headed to a hotel for icebreakers and orientation, where we reviewed the GLA rules and learned a little bit about Thai culture and language. We were able to learn about some key Thai phrases and Wai, a common gesture used to greet people out of respect in Thailand. After a buffet style lunch, we visited three different well known temples in Chiang Mai. We learned some history about each temple and had free time to explore and take photos. After returning to home base, we had time to rest before heading to a Michelin star restaurant for dinner. To wrap up the day, we divided into our first mentor groups of the trip before retiring for a well deserved sleep. We’re super excited to see what tomorrow will bring us!
~Leaders of the Day: Temi and Ellie
BLOG POST FOR JULY 19
Today was packed with engaging activities for our GLA group, offering both educational insights and team-building opportunities.
We began with a hospital orientation held at a luxury hotel, providing a comfortable setting to learn about the various medical institutions we’ll visit and the diverse occupations we’ll shadow. This session offered valuable insights into the healthcare field. Afterward, we enjoyed a pleasant four-course lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon, we explored a five-story mall for three hours, giving students a chance to get any needed hospital attire or simply enjoy some leisure time. Later, we participated in a fun Thai cooking class, successfully preparing our choice of pad thai or fried rice. Unfortunately, heavy rain and flooding cut the class short, preventing us from completing the other courses.
The day concluded with an American style dinner at The Duke’s, where we enjoyed pizza, salads, and cookies. It was a great way to unwind, talk with one another, and reflect on the day’s new experiences.
~Leaders of the Day: Grace & Eva
BLOG POST FOR JULY 20
Hey Everyone! We started our day with a scenic drive up a winding mountain road to a breathtaking viewpoint above the clouds. Surrounded by colorful flower gardens, we enjoyed incredible Thai coffee, tea, and matcha while soaking in the stunning views. Next, we climbed 300 steps to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, an ancient temple with rich history and panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
After a hearty lunch and some ice cream, we took on a fast-paced Muay Thai (MMA) boot camp. By the end, we were drenched in sweat and proud of the challenge we conquered. That evening, we wandered through the Sunday Night Market in the heart of the old city. We tasted local favorites like mango sticky rice and Pad Thai and picked up lots of great finds.To wrap up the night, our group gathered to chat about the upcoming service opportunities and got excited for the days ahead.
~Leaders of the Day: Eastyn & Jordan
BLOG POST FOR JULY 21
Today was full of excitement. We started the day with a drive to the elephant sanctuary, where we discovered the endless beauty of reclining van seats. When we arrived at the sanctuary, we enjoyed a brief lesson on the history of Thai elephants, their defining characteristics, and how they compare to other species of elephants. When the baby elephant came along, however, the lesson was abandoned as we all squealed, a testament to the cuteness of the one-year-old.
The lesson was followed by a short walk alongside the elephants’ path, through the jungle, and over several bridges. Watching the elephants douse themselves and their child in mud, one of our leaders, Jayme, received a flower crown from a local guide, and we sang “Happy Birthday” to her to commemorate her special day. Finishing the walk, we changed into our water shoes and sandals to bathe with the elephants.
Once again full of energy, the entire group was fully immersed with the elephants. As we described it, the proximity to such large animals was “magical”.
For dinner, we once again enjoyed local cuisine, as well as new Thai fruits: rambutan, mangosteen, and langsat. General opinions were mixed, but mangosteens were crowd pleasers. We will all be going to sleep tired and ready for a new day of adventure!
~Leaders of the Day: Elspeth and Keiran
BLOG POST FOR JULY 22
Hi friends and family! We started our morning with breakfast where we got to choose between an American-style or Thai meal. Then we headed out to the first hospital visit of our trip, which was a smaller community hospital. We got to observe both nurses and doctors as they guided us through different rotations—each one super interesting in its own way. The rotations included the operating room (OR), emergency room (ER), inpatient and outpatient care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and even traditional Chinese medicine! It was so eye opening to see how things work behind the scenes. After all of that, our group leaders surprised us with a treat which was McDonald’s ice cream cones! Later in the day, we had a special guest speaker who’s a family medicine doctor. We got to ask her questions about her work and what her day-to-day life is like, which was really inspiring. After that, we ended the day with a fun dinner where we all got to relax, laugh, and talk about everything we saw and learned. We can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings and will update you all again soon!
-Leaders of the Day: Evie and Leela
BLOG POST FOR JULY 24
Yesterday we completed hospital rotations at Rajavej Hospital in Chiangmai! Today, our morning began with a health camp for 5th and 6th grade students, where we taught them about the human body. It was amazing to see how curious and enthusiastic they were! Even with language barriers, we found so many creative ways to communicate, and it was rewarding to see them so engaged and eager to learn.
In the afternoon, we visited a local high school for a cultural exchange. The students performed a beautiful traditional Thai dance for us. In return, we shared a bit of our culture through a playful football skit, which got plenty of laughs and applause.
Then, they invited us to learn a traditional Thai dance! With lots of encouragement, they guided us through the steps. We then cooked Pad Thai together in their school kitchen and got a tour of their fantastic seven story-building school.
In just one day, we built such strong connections, and it was hard to leave after having so much fun together. This experience reminded us of how powerful human connection can be,even across cultures and languages.
We then ended the day with some much-needed rest, group bonding time, and dinner at the hotel.
~Leaders of the Day: Lydia & Jackey
BLOG POST FOR JULY 25
Today, our last day of shadowing in Chiang Mai ended with a visit to Maharaj Nakorn Hospital; a large medical center associated with Chiang Mai University‘s medical school.
From 9:00-11:00 a.m. we cycled through its various specialized departments, including orthopedics, pediatrics, ophthalmology, ENT (ear, nose, throat), rehabilitation, pediatric psychiatric department, the general surgery wards, sub-ICU, and the cardiac unit. It was cool to see people in the careers we’d always dreamed about working the actual job. Seeing occupational therapists teaching kids with special needs and nurses care for patients recovering from surgery reminded of the hard, yet heartwarming aspect of healthcare.
For lunch, we explored the options in the hospital canteen before heading back for round two of shadowing. After returning to base camp, we reviewed the final project and learned tips for presenting. And finally, we ended the night going to a nice restaurant that featured the trending laboobos in life-sized statues as well as amazing desserts.
~Leaders of the Day: Lily & Evie
BLOG POST FOR JULY 26
After a slow start this morning and a late breakfast, we all packed up with our headphones and books for a road trip, headed for the tallest mountain in Thailand. Luckily, none of us were sick climbing the winding roads through the intense fog. Unfortunately, the fog made the summit very wet and cold, so we quickly got back in the vans to head to the waterfall. Although some of us were feeling glum about the weather, the waterfall raised all of our spirits as we took photos in front of the cascade.
After another long ride, we went to what we could agree was the most special meal venue of the trip so far: the Carp Cafe. Sipping on our Thai drinks, we all fed the hundreds of carp that swam in the pond that surrounded the booths.
Back at base camp, we had a very informative lesson about Thailand’s healthcare system and how it compares to others around the world. We ended the day with an early night in.
~Leaders of the Day: Keiran and Ellie
BLOG POST FOR JULY 28
Today was full of sunshine, saltwater, and so many memories. We started our morning with a delicious buffet breakfast. Afterward, we boarded a boat and headed out into the water for a snorkeling trip.
We saw coral, fish, and even a few sea urchins. One of the most exciting moments was getting to jump off the boat and swim around—although a few of us felt tiny stings from jellyfish larvae (don’t worry, nothing serious!).
When we returned, we had some free time to relax on the beach or cool off in the pool. Before dinner, we took some fun photos on the beach to capture the beauty of the sunset and our time together. We had a lovely meal just down the beach.
To end the night, we had a Mama Mia watch party. It was the perfect way to wind down after such a full day.
More adventures to come tomorrow!
~Leaders of the Day: Eva & Leela
BLOG POST FOR JULY 29
We kicked things off with a quick stop at a local clinic, where we got a glimpse into the island’s preventive small but mighty healthcare system.Then it was straight to the beach, where the real fun began: sun, sand, and nonstop laughs. After soaking up all the sea vibes, we cooled off with some pool time before diving into our Beach Olympics against each other’s mentor groups.
To wrap it all up, we shared our final dinner here on Koh Samet and had A beach bash full of music, mayhem, and lots of people getting pushed into the ocean. We danced, laughed, and splashed our hearts out, an unforgettable end to an unforgettable day.
-Eastyn and Jordan
BLOG POST FOR JULY 30
After a full day of travel, our group has officially arrived in Bangkok. To kick things off, we headed to a local outdoor mall where everyone got to enjoy a variety of delicious dinner restaurant options and pick up snacks from the supermarket.
Later in the evening, students gathered in their mentor groups to begin preparing for their final presentations, sharing ideas and reflecting on all they’ve learned so far.
Tomorrow we begin our Bangkok hospital rotations. The leaders of the day tomorrow are Lydia and Temi.
~International Director: Gina
BLOG POST FOR JULY 31
Today we had the opportunity to explore multiple departments within a Thai hospital—gaining first-hand experience in both patient care and the healthcare field. Each intern got to go through 2-4 hospital rotations.
The first rotation was in the In-Patient Department (IPD), starting in the pediatrics ward, then going to the nursery where we met a baby boy who had just been born yesterday. We then visited the postpartum unit, witnessing the aftercare that mothers receive following delivery. Rounding out this department, we also learned about kidney treatments and observed patients receiving care.
The second rotation was in the Out-Patient Department (OPD), where the focus shifted to more specialized care. The stops included plastic surgery, pediatrics, ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat), and finally OBGYN. We were able to view an eye scan and even get our own eyes scanned. Then we also were able to see the doctor in the ENT department use a small camera for colonoscopies to view the inside of his ears and throat. We saw the voicebox move as he spoke.
In Specific Unit 1, we observed some of the hospital’s most intense areas: the Operating Room (OR), Emergency Room (ER), and Gastrointestinal (GI) Department. These departments showed us the fast-paced and critical side of healthcare. In the GI department, we were able to learn about colonoscopies and how they work, by observing the photos of a patient who took a colonoscopy and viewing the cameras the doctors use.
In Specific Unit 2 we went to the Dental Clinic, MRI room, Laboratory, and Physical Therapy (PT) department. From diagnostics to rehab, we got a well-rounded perspective of the many roles that support patient recovery and health maintenance.
After a long, meaningful day, we returned to our hotel to rest and prepare for our upcoming visit to the boys’ home. We then went to dinner at a Michelin Star Restaurant.
Finally, we returned to the hotel and worked on our final projects, which we’ll begin presenting tomorrow. It was a packed day, but one we’ll never forget.
~Leaders of the Day: Lydia & Temi
BLOG POST FOR AUGUST 1
Today was an educational day for our GLA group. Students were given the amazing opportunity of visiting the Thammasat hospital. At the hospital, they were split into four pre-assigned groups (Pharmacy, OBGYN, Surgery, and Anatomy) that allowed them to shadow certain specialties under the leadership of a professional of that field.
In anatomy, students examined deceased bodies in the mortuary and were taught basic human anatomy and how each system works with one another to ensure that the body remains healthy. Pharmacy allowed students to learn about the process of how medicine is sorted and distributed within the hospital and to patients that are not required to stay in the hospital. A favorite for many, OBGYN gave students a chance to observe the post-labor process (and see many cute newborns)! In the final rotation option, surgery, students observed ear, nose, and sinus surgeries as the procedure was happening. Once their first rotation sessions were completed, lunch was a group favorite as students had a vast variety of selections, such as Auntie Anne’s and Starbucks, which was a nice reminder of home.
After lunch, students listened to the presentation from a guest speaker who shared her journey to becoming a doctor in Thailand. They were given the opportunity to ask questions, which cleared up the common misconception that the process of becoming a doctor in Thailand is much shorter than the US.
Afterwards, we continued our medical rotations until 4pm. We then returned to the hotel, giving everyone a well deserved break! Our break continued into dinner where our group ate a light dinner at the Salad Factory. Once we returned to our hotel we ended the day where students were given the opportunity to listen to a few of their peers’ presentations about what they think should be changed in Thailand’s medical system.
~Leaders of the Day: Jackie & Grace
BLOG POST FOR AUGUST 2
After our rotations in the hospital yesterday, we got to sleep in a bit more this morning before heading to the Grand Palace. During our hour-long tour of the palace we were able to learn a lot about its history and the royal family, and see the Emerald Buddha (which is actually made out of jade). After enduring the heat and crowdedness of the Grand Palace, we were very relieved to step into the AC of a yummy Thai restaurant for lunch.
In the afternoon, we saw the Reclining Buddha before marveling at the splendid mosaic decoration of Arun Wat, the Temple of Dawn. Excited to head over to Chatuchak Market—the largest market in Southeast Asia—many of us took off our long, hot coverups after exploring the temple. However, we were unaware that we would be passing another smaller temple on the way back to the vans and accordingly about half of our group was aggressively whistled at by a modesty police officer who insisted we put our coverups back on before allowing us to pass.
After a half hour van drive, we arrived at Chatuchak Market, where many of us began our shopping spree by purchasing smoothies. The market offered almost anything imaginable, from the popular Sonny Angels and adorable elephant keychains to the infamous durian and impressive fake bags. Many of us were happy with our hauls of thrifted clothes, cute purses and makeup bags, unique souvenirs, gifts for family, and surprisingly reasonably priced merchandise.
After we all reluctantly ended our shopping sprees, we had a dinner of pizza before getting some free time to chill and prepare for our presentations. This is our second night of doing our presentations, they have been phenomenal, and we can all see the hard work everyone put into their projects. Ranging from ideas to improve mental health or mental health awareness to the economics of the hospitals to make them more sustainable. Tomorrow is our last day of projects. We finished the evening with the whole group going for a nice swim.
Overall, today was an amazing day and we all loved showing each other our hauls from the markets today! The trip is definitely winding down, but there’s still so much left to do.
~Leaders of the Day: Elspeth & Lily
BLOG POST FOR AUGUST 3
Today was a full-on adventure as we explored Bangkok the local way! We started our morning at the beautiful Tewaraj Kunchon Temple where we learned about Thai culture and made merit by feeding hundreds of fish in the canal with loaves of bread—messy, fun, and meaningful. Then we walked through a wet market, packed with local foods, fresh produce, and sights (and smells!) we won’t forget anytime soon.
For transportation, we ditched our vans and hopped on a river ferry, followed by the BTS Skytrain—just like the locals do. Our destination: CentralwOrld mall, where we somehow managed to shop, snack, and explore for seven hours straight. After a long day, we wrapped up the night prepping games and activities for our visit tomorrow to a local boys’ home, where we’ll be doing community service. A wild, fun, and meaningful day all around.
~Leaders of the Day: Eastyn & Ellie
BLOG POST FOR AUGUST 4
Today we had the opportunity to volunteer at a local boys home in Bangkok. We planned exciting activities for them such as: painting hand murals, making clay models, paper chains, paper helicopters, and finally ending with doing freeze dancing. We then got to serve them lunch and wash the windows in their home. We are so grateful they welcomed us into their home and that we got the opportunity to meet all of them. It was definitely a hard goodbye but we will always remember the smiles on all of their faces.
Then we came back to the hotel and finished with our last 4 presentations. We then had a lot of free time at the hotel that we spent in the pool, at the gym, packing, or just relaxing in our room. We then went to dinner at a local Thai restaurant where the local staff treated us with delicious smoothies! Finally, we arrived back at the hotel and did our last mentor groups. We can’t believe that the trip is coming to an end but we can’t wait to see what tomorrow has in store.
~Leaders of the Day: Lydia & Grace
BLOG POST FOR AUGUST 5
Our final day in GLA was today, and it ended as a microcosm of its parts. We started off the day with hospital rotations, and went to the canteen to have lunch. Several of us stopped by to get snacks at 7/11 (which has become somewhat of a tradition here in Thailand). After lunch, we finished our rotations and drove back to the hotel to freshen up for our farewell dinner.
The GLA staff had been fondly describing the dinner for the entire trip, and the meal was above and beyond our expectations. After roughly 1000 pictures each, we complained as we were forced to go back to the hotel, with many teary eyes as Narong shared his wisdom.
Back at the hotel, we held an “appreciation circle”, where we acknowledged everyone who made us feel special on the internship. As one of our fond members left for an early flight, many hugs were had and tears shed.
It’s fair to say all of us feel more connected than we ever could have imagined, and we won’t forget anything for a good, long while.
~Leaders of the Day: Keiran and Temi
