The 2014 PSU – BSU English Camp was an excellent international activity that enabled Thai students to improve their English skills by communicating with native English speaking teachers while having fun, making new friends and participating in creative activities under the motto “Live together - Learn together - Play together”. The program was a great success for the 161 students from all five PSU campuses and participating senior high school students, as well as for the 12 Camp Leaders from Ball State University, USA, who have closely worked together. The strong dedication of Dr. Kris Rugsaken, Camp Director from BSU, and the enthusiasm of the PSU International Affairs Office made this 12th occasion of the PSU–BSU English Camp, as well as the other 11 previous camps, possible and prosperous.
The camp’s activities were organized in southern Thailand, in Trang, Krabi, Surat Thani, and Phuket provinces, from May 18 - June 15, 2014. New for this year's event was the double-camp; due to PSU's extended summer term, two English camps were held consecutively, one from May 18-31(Trang, Krabi), and the other from June 2-15 (Surat Thani, Phuket). This doubled the number of students who benefited from the activity, and doubled the time that camp leaders could spend in Thailand to immerse in local culture.
Between the two events, camp leaders had the chance to unwind on Railay Beach, Krabi, before returning to the camp for the second time. Activities for students and camp leaders included walking through the canopy walkway of the Peninsular Botanic Garden (Thung Khia); visiting the Plan Toys factory, the aquarium, Kradae Jae the Monkey Training Center, Salaka Garden, Thai Silk village at Chai Ya and Phumriang; participating in a cruise around Phang-Nga Bay and James Bond Island; sightseeing at Tha Pom Song Nam, Krabi, and at the Butterfly Garden and Chalong Temple, Phuket.
Participants marked the end of each English camp with a memorable and energetic farewell party, featuring a variety of shows by students wearing creative costumes, presenting Thai dances and English songs. Camp leaders surprised the audience with a choreographed eclectic dance performance that greatly amused the students. Asst. Prof. Dr. Ram Yamsaengsung, Assistant President for International Affairs, honored the first farewell party, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prathana Kunnaovakun, Dean of the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism, Phuket Campus, honored the second one.
The seeds of knowledge and friendship that were planted during the English camp will continue to grow in the years to come. PSU and BSU look forward to welcoming everyone again in next year’s camp.
