Khap chaa chaa: my first class as a teacher

On the way to school, I quickly realised walking wasn’t an option. The heat and stray dogs made sure of that.

So, I ordered a Grab motorbike and made sure to say khap chaa chaa ขับชา้ ๆ (drive slowly in Thai) before every ride. Why? Because I had already been in a motorbike crash before as a passenger, and let’s just say… I wasn’t in a rush to relive that experience. Some drivers were incredibly kind. Others? Well, they turned my commute into an action scene—weaving between trucks, speeding past cars, and making me grip the seat thinking, “Ahhhh!”

And if I thought the motorbike ride was nerve-wracking, I had no idea what to expect for my first class. Not as a student this time—but as a teacher!

Thankfully, the Head Teacher and the Teaching Assistants were lifesavers—helping with class management and offering coaching tips. Their guidance helped me gain confidence in teaching.

Later on, my friend saw a picture of me in a shirt and tie and laughed:
“You look like you’re trying to dress up as an adult.”

To be honest? It kind of felt that way.

This was just the beginning of my teaching journey in

Thailand. Thank you to @thefewerthings and @bfitsthailand for providing this opportunity.