Week 1 in Bangkok

Our first week as a Rotary Peace Fellow is over.  We had several days of orientation by Jenn, the Deputy Director  of the Rotary Peace Center at Chulalongkorn University.  I'm happy to say that the orienation was very informative, not only about Thai culture and history, but as well, it provided us an overview of the course of studies we will be completing.  As well, we had plenty of opportunity for all of us, as fellows, to get to know each other.  We have already bonded and enjoyed plenty of "outside of class" activities together.

On Saturday the Rotary Center of Thailand had a day-long orienation, which included introductions of all the Rotarian host and co-host counselors, as well as an overview of Rotary.  The keynote speaker, Bhichai Rattakul, a Past Rotary International President, was the founder of the program at Chulalongkorn University.  He was a remarkable man and very inspirational in his talk.  The one point he made, which is important for all of us to remember is: "If you can only solve one problem [when you return home], it will be worthwhile." 

Below I have added some photos from my first week as a Rotary Peace Fellow. The first two are from the Rotary Club of Bangkapi, which I attended with my host and co-host counselors and another fellow on February 14, 2012.

The next picture is me with Bhichai, who handed out our Rotary Peace Fellow alumni pins during our orientation on Feb. 18, 2012.

 This picture has a majority of the fellows and Peace Center staff, while we were at the Rotary Orientation on February 19, 2012.

And, finally, a few of us needed to unwind after the long week.  We found a place in Bangkok along Sukhumvit Blvd., where I'm sure we'll end up many a weekend nights for some fun and relaxation.