Asia Summer Program 2023: Innovation and Lifelong Friendships!

Written by Eileen

Sophomore in Communication Arts, Bangkok University

My summer was a blast with the most incredible exchange program I've ever been a part of. The Asia Summer Program 2023 brought together six countries—Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines, South Korea, Indonesia, and Japan—for an unforgettable collaboration. I had the honor of representing Bangkok University's School of Communication Arts, securing one of the only three available seats for my school, and receiving a scholarship for ASP 2023 after passing my English interview.

The program centered on innovation and soft power, offering a diverse range of courses, including two weeks of online learning and a thrilling final week of immersive onsite activities. From coding to hospitality and tourism, I explored new horizons and even dived into Python, a subject I had never encountered before. The Image Making course introduced me to the fascinating world of AI Beta, promising exciting possibilities for my field. Group assignments helped us bond as we learned about each other's strengths and interests.

During the last week, we all gathered in Thailand for an eye-opening onsite experience. The ASP staff took us on a journey through four provinces, including Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, and Bangkok. From ancient histories to local lifestyles, traditional activities to delectable foods, and bustling metropolitan areas, we got a taste of Thailand from every angle. I cherished the moments when we exchanged stories from our home countries while exploring together.

ASP2023 achieved its mission of fostering soft power and connecting us as friends from different nations. One question from my interview with the professors lingers in my mind: "What are your expectations for this program?" At the time, I merely sought to learn more about innovation and soft power. As the program concluded, I realized that the most valuable gift I received was friendship. The memories we created during this program are irreplaceable, and I encourage future students to seize the opportunity to join next year—it's sure to exceed your wildest expectations.