My first teaching job in Lamphun marked a new chapter in my life. I was hired to teach Grades 7 and 8 at a public high school in northern Thailand. It was my first time teaching Thai students, and honestly, I had no idea what to expect. Still, I felt excited — ready to grow, learn, and push beyond my comfort zone.
The Overnight Bus Ride to Lamphun
I boarded a double-decker night bus from Bangkok to Lamphun — my first long solo journey in Thailand. The ride took almost 10 hours. I didn’t speak or understand Thai yet, so I was anxious the whole time. The bus stopped at a few local stations where passengers could eat. A simple meal was included in the fare, but I barely touched it. I couldn’t sleep either. I just sat there, thinking: “This is really happening.”
Even with all the worry, deep down, I knew this was the beginning of something meaningful.
First Impressions of Lamphun
When I arrived at the Lamphun bus terminal, I was relieved to see the school’s foreign teacher coordinator holding a sign with my name. Lamphun instantly felt different from Bangkok — quieter, slower, and surrounded by nature. The town had a peaceful charm that made me feel welcome, even if I didn’t know anyone.
The school had already arranged a place for me to stay — a newly built apartment just a few minutes’ walk away. I was one of the first tenants. The room was empty except for a bed frame and mattress. No pillows, no blankets, no kitchenware. I bought only what I could afford — a small fan, a kettle, and a set of plates.
Another Filipino teacher moved in next door. We bonded instantly over our shared uncertainties and excitement.
First Day in the Classroom
The first day of my teaching job in Lamphun was unforgettable. I greeted each class with a nervous smile, introducing myself and asking students to share their names. Some were shy, some giggled, and a few tried their best to speak in English.
Managing twelve sections a week was overwhelming at first. Each class had a different dynamic — some were quiet, others were rowdy. It took time to adjust, but I slowly learned how to handle the classroom. I kept my English simple, used visual aids, and always stayed patient.
One thing that helped was the kindness of other foreign teachers. They gave me tips on lesson planning and classroom management — things I hadn’t learned in college.
Life Outside the Classroom
Living near the school meant I often saw my students around town — at the local market, the 7-Eleven, or even near my apartment. At first, it felt a little awkward, but I soon began to enjoy those random moments. Students would greet me with a smile or say, “Hello, teacher!” — simple acts that reminded me I was making an impact.
I’ll never forget the day one student had a nosebleed during class. Everyone panicked, including me. But I took a deep breath, grabbed some tissues, and helped. That small moment taught me how to lead, even in unfamiliar situations.
What My Teaching Job in Lamphun Taught Me
I stayed in Lamphun for a year. My teaching job in Lamphun wasn’t just a job — it was a journey of growth, patience, and unexpected joy. I eventually left because of changes in the school’s management, but I walked away with something far more valuable than a paycheck: confidence.
I learned to live on my own, adapt to a new culture, and connect with people from a completely different background. That first job laid the foundation for the teacher — and person — I am today.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about taking a teaching job in Lamphun or a similar quiet town in Thailand, I say go for it. Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” You’ll figure it out along the way — and in the process, you’ll discover strength, humility, and resilience you didn’t know you had.
In Summary: 7 Memorable Moments from My Teaching Job in Lamphun
- The overnight bus ride — my first solo long trip in Thailand
- First impressions of the peaceful town of Lamphun
- Settling into my new apartment with just the basics
- Introducing myself to my students on the first day
- Managing large classes with diverse student personalities
- Staying calm and helping a student during a nosebleed incident
- Building connections by bumping into students outside of school
These moments made my teaching journey unforgettable and helped me grow both professionally and personally.
If you’re inspired by my journey and thinking about teaching in Thailand, why not start exploring opportunities yourself? Check out Ajarn.com — it’s a trusted resource to find teaching jobs, get tips, and connect with fellow educators. Your new adventure could be just a click away!
