One of the most important things in studying abroad is to learn to say yes more. It is so easy to turn down new experiences because you are unsure if you will enjoy something, fearful of the unknown, or wary about change. It’s completely normal to feel this way, but these inhibitions will hold you back from some of the best experiences of your time abroad and maybe even your life! The best way to soak up the joys of your cultural experiences abroad is to fully embrace the fears and anxieties and take the courage to try new things!
I’ve tried my best to apply this mindset during my semester here in Bangkok, Thailand. I’m constantly faced with new challenges, experiences, and culture shocks but throughout each, I can overcome and learn more about myself and Thai culture. In the spirit of embracing my fears, I jumped headfirst into the water (literally) and tried out scuba diving on Koh Tao.
Koh Tao is called “Turtle Island” in the Thai language. Turtle Island is known throughout the world as the ideal diving spot for abundant sea turtles and whale sharks. It is one of the cheapest places to get open water scuba certification and it is a safe location to scuba as a beginner as it lacks strong currents.
Even though the idea of scuba diving was terrifying I knew the importance of giving it a go. I enrolled myself at a diving school called Phoenix Divers to begin my open water scuba course certification. Before we could scuba we learned all about the equipment scuba divers use, how deep sea level pressures affect the body, and how to take care of marine life in an ever-changing climate. Next, we take our knowledge and apply it in the pool as a safety measure so everyone can get acclimated. Then finally we were able to set out into the ocean and experience life below the water. The water was crystal blue and the sea life was so colorful, abundant, and diverse. I was able to see parrotfish, baby sharks, pufferfish, sea slugs, and different types of corals. Unfortunately, we did not get to see any sea turtles or whale sharks as I hoped but the experience was still incredible! It was truly such an amazing experience to view our environments in such an intimate way and overcome personal fear.