Students can leave chirping traffic lights for the waterways ofthe "Venice of the East" in a new study-abroad program in Thailandthis summer.
From June 2004 to October 2004, students can immerse themselvesin Thai culture, Nihal Perera, the director of the program,said.
Cyrus Reed, assistant provost for international education, saidthe program came from Ball State's relationships and PresidentBlaine Brownell's trip to Thailand a few years ago.
"Students get to study in Thailand and be smack dab in themiddle of ... one of the greatest cities in the world," Reed said."It's an incredible opportunity. I think it's one of the richestexperiences Ball State is able to offer."
Students will study and live at Assumption University inBangkok. They will attend three classes of their own choosing withother international students and Thai students.
Classes are offered in English.
Students, however, have to take one cultural class sponsored byBall State. This class is open to BSU students only and allowsstudents to discuss concerns.
The class also focuses on Thai and Asian culture anddevelopment, Perera said.
Students can take an independent study option, but Perera doesnot encourage it because he wants students to focus on Thaiculture.
Students will live with or next to Thai students in a newdormitory.
The rooms are similar to those at Ball State, but they haveprivate bathrooms and balconies in Thailand.
Students can room with other Ball State students or Thaistudents.
Perera said he encourages interested students to take AsianStudies 101 or 102 before leaving for Bangkok, though these classesare not required.
The classes are designed to give students an understanding ofAsian culture to prepare them for studying abroad, Perera said.
The Bangkok program includes a cultural package too, includingsightseeing trips around Bangkok and daytrips outside the city.
Although Thai is the official language, English is widely spokenin Thailand's tourist areas, Perera said.
When the program ends in October, students have the option ofstaying for travel or internships.
Perera is contacting BSU alumni working in Bangkok for possibleinternship opportunities.
The program will cost approximately $4,300 for airfare,transportation, housing and day trips. All students will pay the2004 in-state tuition as well.
"The most important is the student's interest in getting acultural experience," Perera said. "Anybody can apply."
The Bangkok program is open to juniors and seniors from anymajor.
The program is capped at 10 students. They are required tofill out applications by Jan. 30. Students need to also includeletters of recommendation.
Candidates might be judged on GPA and the letters. Candidatesmust also interview Nihal Perera, the director of theprogram.
Students can e-mail Perera for applications and moreinformation at nperera@bsu.edu
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