#mapfoundation

Being able to come to Chiang Mai for a second time has allowed me to fully understand the importance of interpersonal relationships. Though I still find the monuments and the luster of the city just as breathtaking, they don’t compare to the rush and excitement I get out of being able to reconnect with those I have not seen for a year. Regardless of the language barrier and time passed, I still feel a strong sense of belonging. It is just these relationships and emotional transactions that truly transform an experience. Not only do I have a deeper understanding of Thai culture but I believe I have found family thousands of miles away from what I consider home.

I am extremely thankful for having been greeted so warmly by not only MAP staff but also by the interns that we were able to teach last year. Though the language barrier still persists, it seems as if we have surpassed this and come to understand each other on another level. Needless to say, I am excited for what the next five weeks will look like!

First off: hello from all of the interns! We’re just getting to work here at MAP Foundation in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and we’re excited for a productive summer.

Introductions are, of course, in order. I’m Nick Arehart, a junior and this year's multimedia intern. Senior Alex Albert, junior Divya Seth, and graduate Janice Lee round out the intern team, alongside our GROW coordinator, senior Wendy Avila.

The five of us will be posting individually and signing our entries to let you know who's up to what. For now, follow, share, read up on us and MAP (the tabs up top) and stay tuned for more content!