The Thailand Study Abroad scholarship that I received from SPC was the best gift I could ask for. I work two jobs in a clinic and I am a bartender and even with these jobs I would not have been able to make my dream to work with elephants possible. I go from job to job and never get a day off. There is no thank you good enough to express my gratitude.

Before my study abroad program I never traveled overseas so this was a first for me. I have never been in conditions such as no air conditioning or no hot water, it has made me so grateful for what we have in the United States. There are so many things that we Americans take for granted, that the people of Thailand go without every day. I also have never been away from my family for more than a couple days and I was able to be without them for almost 2 weeks. This trip was more than working with elephants for me, it was a character builder. I learned to deal with situations that I have never had to deal with before. During my trip I got very sick and I had to learn how to take care of myself and also my room mates.

Now for the elephants, they are more beautiful and magical in person than in pictures and at the zoo. I go to feed them watch them in their nature habitat. I learned their different personalities. They showed me how much family means to them. For instance the Mom, and two aunts, they made sure baby Pin was always safe and they would not let no harm come to her. Elephants have a great memory, they knew where to be at what time of day, and they would always meet us at the meeting spot for their feedings. I will never forget my time I spent with them.

I think that everyone should experience a study aboard. This is not only an experience to remember but it builds you as a person. It makes you a stronger you. There is no thank you good enough for the gift I had been given. It will always be in my heart and thoughts. I will tell everyone about my experience.