At BISP we are fortunate to welcome remarkable young professionals who enrich our school community in many ways. This term, PE intern Louise Jones has kindly offered to share her experiences through a series of short reflective pieces, giving readers a glimpse into daily life behind the scenes at Surin House and what an intern’s life here at BISP is really like. We are delighted to introduce the first article in this new series, written from her perspective.

A Collision of Cultures

Written by Louise Jones, BISP Intern (PE Department)

Both staff and students alike have travelled miles across the world to be a part of the BISP community. Surin House has become a home away from home for 10 interns, 6 coaches, 2 matrons and 2 nurses. This has allowed five different nationalities to come together under one roof and learn about each other’s customs and traditions. The interns and coaches in particular have taken advantage of this opportunity. Common phrases, dance moves and food recipes have all been shared, tried and judged. 

Many of the interns are familiar with travelling and so have eagerly thrown themselves into Thai culture. From visiting markets and trying traditional Thai dishes, to speaking the language and Muay Thai lessons, everyone has been making the most of what Phuket has to offer. Eating scorpions and grasshoppers at Naka market has proven to be a particularly memorable occasion…..

Despite all the excitement that comes with moving to a new place, being away from home can be challenging. To overcome home-sickness, regular FaceTimes and calls to friends and family back home have become an important part of the interns’ weeks. Movie nights in Surin House have also been a highlight and helped create a family atmosphere. 

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We are grateful to Louise for sharing her reflections and for offering our community a closer look at an intern’s life here at BISP. Her insights capture the warmth, resilience and cultural curiosity that define our interns each year. We look forward to publishing more of her pieces throughout the year as part of The Intern Files series.