Written by Sam Stiles 2022-23 Latitudes Student
Sawasdee everyone! My experience in Koh Tao has been enriching in many ways. It is a privilege to be a part of the vital work that New Heaven’s Reef Conservation Program does here. I am so glad to get the experience of protecting the ocean while using my passion for diving! I have also gotten the incredible opportunity to do my training to become a professional DiveMaster here. I have also gotten to expand my perspective by being able to meet all kinds of people from all around the world; and by being totally immersed in a culture that differs greatly from my own.
Carpe Diem: What has challenged you this semester?
A great challenge that I face here is the language barrier. Thai is a difficult language to figure out and there are also many other languages spoken by foreigners from other countries. I’ve had to navigate communicating with people who speak Thai, French, German, Burmese and many other languages.
Carpe Diem: What have been the highlights of your experience?
One big highlight from my time here has been seeing two different whale sharks within a 6-day period. That was an incredible week for those experiences alone! All of the diving here in general has been the highlight of every day for me. All of the food here has been so amazing as well! If you love flavorful and spicy dishes then Thai food is definitely a must!
Carpe Diem: What’s a new skill, tool, or knowledge that you’ve picked up during your semester?
Great question! Being in Koh Tao, both Reef Conservation and my Divemaster training have given me a plethora of diving knowledge and skills that I only dreamed of having before. Something else that also helped with my learning journey was that I have been working with expert divers every day. Talking with these people has taught me a lot of great tips and information that would have taken me years to find out otherwise.
Inspired by Sam’s gap year? Learn more about the Latitudes Year and carve out your own journey!
