Teaching English in Thailand: Expectations vs. Realities

Everyone can paint a picture of what their life will be like in the future—whether that's a new job, new school, new city...Or maybe painting all of those things because you chose to teach abroad. Sometimes creating a beautiful utopian picture of something ambiguous or uncertain can be an affirmation of a recent decision. I get it—change is scary. We all bring with us a set of certain expectations of what life can, should or might be like. Having recently completed my venture as an English teacher in Thailand, there are certain expectations that were (immediately) debunked. Repeat after me: change is good.

8 Expectations (& Realities) of Teaching English in Thailand

1. It won't be that hot.

Reality: Okay. I am from the Midwest. I thought I knew humidity. Truth is, you have no clue until you step out of the Bangkok airport and succumb to the unavoidable heat wall as a welcome to Southeast Asia. Thailand will teach you a whole new lesson on bearing the heat and unpredictable weather. On the bright side, you will probably never be cold and depending on timing, be able to skip a brutal winter back home :)

2. 25,000 baht isn't a lot of money.

Reality: It's all relative. Typically, your monthly salary will range from 25,000-30,000 THB ($700-$900), and it will range based on your experience (and your TEFL). Also, some schools and programs will cover the cost of an apartment (especially if you go through a program like CIEE). What is very little money in USD is a lot more in THB.  Fact: You will be able to criss-cross Thailand and Southeast Asia on that salary. I did!

3. Thai food isn't that spicy—I've had Pad Thai before!

Reality #1: The Thai food you know from the States is very Americanized. Reality #2: Thai people are immune to the chilis! Most touristy restaurants in Thailand will tone down the heat, but expect to repeat "mai phet" (no spice) or "phet nit noi" (a little spicy) over and over in the small open-air eateries in  your town. You probably will learn your lesson after your first helping of green curry or papaya salad.

4. Teaching can't be that hard.

Reality: It's so hard! You will question yourself, you will question your knowledge, and you will learn every day. It's an amazing experience to teach English to those who are learning it as a second, third or even fourth language. It makes you realize how difficult the English language truly is, and finding ways to explain just why we conjugate verbs, and how to communicate that reasoning to Thai students will be an everyday challenge. You will be thanking your TEFL certificate every day.

5. I can't wait to live on Phi Phi island!

Reality: Your teaching job will more than likely be in a rural part of Thailand, or near major cities, like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, but finding jobs on paradisiacal islands is much more difficult. Upside? You have countless beautiful vacations a short plane trip or overnight bus away. Long weekend? Head to Koh Chang or Koh Samet. Spoiled, yes.

6. I probably won't need my TEFL training.

Reality: Refer to #4, please. You will be thanking your lucky stars you chose to get TEFL-certified once you arrive in front of 50 hyperactive, preteen Thai students. Plus, you will feel so rewarded once you feel that you are truly teaching and making a difference.

7. English is universal—everyone will speak it.

Reality: No. Outside of Bangkok, many older-generation Thais speak very little English, and you will consistently face language barriers (especially with your students!). But, by doing your part, you can learn a bit of Thai and be able to communicate when needed. (Pointing also goes a long way when ordering food, too)

8. I will be on my own.

Reality: You have the option for solo travel if that suits you. Prefer a crew? Not to worry. Thailand is a hot-bed of backpackers, young and old people alike. People from all over the world travel through Southeast Asia—with Thailand being a transport hub, never fear! Hostels are a great place to meet people and new friends when traveling. Another bonus: if you decide to teach English through a program or organization like CIEE, you will go through an orientation in the beginning. Say hello to your new travel buddies!