EDITORIAL

Truly Global

One of the outstanding attributes of Mahidol University International College (MUIC) is its being a truly international institution of higher learning. Firstly, its curriculum and academic programs are world-class and recognized by leading accreditation bodies. Secondly, English is its main language of instruction. Thirdly, its faculty and staff are composed of various nationalities. Fourthly, as this issue shows, it has a wide network of overseas partner universities paving the way for  a lively exchange program where inbound and outbound students can be exposed to different educational environments and cultural experiences      and where faculty and staff can also participate in academic and research collaborations. With MUIC’s nearly four decades of providing excellent tertiary education in Thailand, much potential remains to be tapped as the college continues to strengthen its international endeavors.

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MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN

Expanding MUIC’s Global Connections

At MUIC, we believe that a truly international education means that students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in other cultures. With that philosophy in mind, we aim to build education partnerships with reputable institutions around the world. Our global network has grown significantly since welcoming our first foreign students in 1994 and today we are proud to have over 140 partner universities worldwide.

This year, we are taking another step forward by expanding our student exchange programs—offering more scholarships and welcoming more international students than ever before. We are also strengthening ties with top universities across Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific, creating even more opportunities for collaboration.

But our partnerships are      more than just about exchange programs. They open doors to academic collaborations, research initiatives, and cross-cultural learning experiences that help our students develop a truly global perspective. Whether you’re thinking about studying abroad, engaging in international research, or simply experiencing different cultures right here at MUIC, there’s never been a better time to explore these opportunities.

We are excited about what lies ahead and look forward to seeing MUIC students embrace the world.

 

Prof. Chulathida Chomchai, M.D.
Dean, Mahidol University International College

BUILDING INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

Ever since Mahidol University International College (MUIC) received its first group of visiting foreign students in 1994 (from the Orange Coast College in California, USA), its network of international university partners has grown to over 140 partner institutions worldwide.

A strategy introduced in 2024 focuses on increasing outbound and inbound exchange students, with additional scholarships available. MUIC actively seeks new partnerships with top-ranked institutions in Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific.

The benefits of partnerships in academic collaboration and research endeavors include exposure to international best practices in higher education and exchange programs that enrich students’ global experience.

LIST OF MUIC’S INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS

MUIC has an impressive list of international partners overseas—having MOUs with at least 140 institutions.

Please scan the QR code to see the complete list:

MUIC’S HIGHLY RANKED PARTNER UNIVERSITIES ABROAD

  • The University of Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
  • National University of Singapore, Singapore
  • University of Birmingham, UK
  • University of Bristol, UK
  • RWTH Aachen University, School of Business and Economics, Germany
  • Technical University of Munich, Germany
  • Sciences Po, France
  • University of Technology Sydney, Australia
  • The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), People’s Republic of China
  • University of California, USA

MUIC’S GLOBAL REACH

How important is it to have a network of partner universities abroad?

According to Asst. Prof. Dale Konstanz, Associate Dean for International Affairs of Mahidol University International College (MUIC), having numerous partner universities abroad provides a vast network that allows for international cooperation on many levels, including academic and research collaboration. Aside from that, it gives MUIC the chance to stay up-to-date with its curriculums, work together on different projects and stay current with the best practices in higher education.

In selecting overseas partner universities,  MUIC has a set of criteria including  the potential partner university’s reputation and ranking,  programs that match with what MUIC offers, and number of courses offered in English, location as well as the destination preferences of MUIC students along with their needs and academic goals.

MUIC’s number of partner universities abroad currently stands at 140, and Ajarn Dale said that he and his team are aiming to increase this number starting this academic year in order “to provide a wide range of options for MUIC students in every major who want to study abroad.”

To accomplish this, Ajarn Dale and his team regularly travel to international education fairs in Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific to meet potential partners in person. The MUIC team’s presence in these fairs abroad is an opportunity for the college to be more visible and better known.

At the same time, he expressed confidence that MUIC is easy to promote abroad. “We offer a variety of excellent programs and courses that are appealing to students from other institutions abroad,” he explained, adding that “Inbound exchange students can participate in many events on campus and engage in social and academic activities integrated with the rest of the MUIC community. Also, by offering all courses that are taught in English, it provides the opportunity for students from many different international backgrounds to join us. They also receive a lot of support from our team in the Office of International Affairs and many of the faculty at MUIC.”

MUIC’s location also plays a major role in attracting both partner universities and their students. “Thailand certainly has a lot to offer in terms of wonderful places to visit, a range of fun activities, some of the best food in the world, not to mention the friendly and welcoming people!”

For the outbound students of MUIC, scholarships are available to help defray the costs, including the Young Ambassador (YA) and Young Ambassador Plus (YA+).

In sum, MUIC benefits greatly from having a wide network of reputable and highly-ranked institutions in desirable locations around the world, including in Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific, giving its students international access to a considerable amount of knowledge and also exposure to various cultures.

STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM

Why do you need to be an exchange student?

  • Living in a new country challenges students to step outside their comfort zones.
  • Employers increasingly value international experience.
  • Studying abroad offers the opportunity to explore new places and learn about new

MUIC offers a vibrant exchange and visiting program involving its own students spending a semester or more in their chosen partner university. Inbound students join   MUIC classes and extracurricular activities where they engage not only in academic pursuits but also in cultural exchanges. From an impressive total of over 500 inbound and outbound students annually, MUIC aims to increase it to more than 600 per year as it also signs up agreements with new partners abroad.

TESTIMONIALS FROM FORMER OUTBOUND STUDENTS

DENMARK

Ms. Panisara “Run” Normai Major: Finance

Went to: Zealand Institute of Business and Technology, Denmark

“Being part of an international community of students taught me so much about working with people from different backgrounds and cultures. It helped me become more open-minded, better at communication, and more adaptable when it comes to collaborating with others.”

JAPAN

Ms. Yiran “Diana” Dang
Major: Intercultural Studies and Languages

Went to: Chiba University, Japan

“Enjoy your trip! No matter what happens, don’t give up and don’t lose hope. You might face some challenges in a new      place, but remember that you’ll have friends and teachers who are there to support you.”

CANADA

Mr. Natipum “Music” Vitayapradit
Major: Computer Engineering

Went to: University of Victoria, Canada

“I have made many friends in Canada. I have also expanded my hobbies and skills such as stargazing, skateboarding, calisthenics, and philosophy. Furthermore, as I had to live on my own, I became more self-sufficient, doing all the chores, managing my finances, among others.”

GERMANY

Ms. Boonyaporn “Aum” Phakum
Major: International Business

Went to: Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR Berlin), Germany

“Being an exchange student broadened my perspective on education, work, and life in general. Academically, it gave me the opportunity to experience a new teaching style and a more flexible education system, which helped me develop independence and critical thinking.

Personally, living in a multicultural city like Berlin exposed me to diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, helping me become more open-minded and globally aware.”

CANADA

Ms. Saranya “Sharon” Honghimaphan
Major: Biological Science

Went to: University of Victoria, Canada

“One important tip I would like to share is to learn how to budget. Victoria is a very expensive city and even with the scholarship that I received from the Canadian government, I might have used up most of my budget. Yes, being in a new country, you want to explore and      sample new kinds of food and experience new things, but I have learned that it is still possible to do them if you budget carefully. Some of you might think that you have the money to spend, but trust me, some things are worth more saving and others spending more on     . This was how I was able to visit Vancouver for trips and even go and stay in a town called Whistler for three days.”

JAPAN

Mr. Warit “Shop” Trikasemsak Major: International Business

Went to: Akita International University, Japan

“Try to adapt, improvise, and overcome—in other words, “take initiative.” You are the outsider amongst them and you have to find your place and acquaint yourself with the people around you, otherwise you’ll hate your time abroad and by the time you are comfortable around their company and appreciate their presence, it’ll be time to head back home and you will regret all the time that you could’ve spent and cherished with them. So, start early!”

AUSTRIA

Ms. Myra Lian
Major: Communication Design

Went to: FH Salzburg (Salzburg University of Applied Sciences), Austria

“There were many cultural events that I participated in, including yodeling lessons, running dinner (cooking dinner for each other then visiting different people in their dorm rooms), Rupertikirtag (traditional Austrian holiday), and the Krampuslauf (Krampus run event for Christmas) in Gnigl. There was always something going on in Salzburg, so I learnt a lot about the local culture.”

AUSTRALIA

Ms. Thaingtara “Tine” Narin
Major: Finance

Went to: La Trobe University (Bundoora Campus), Australia

“One important lesson I learned as an exchange student was that I became more independent. When I was in Thailand, I felt like I didn’t have much self-confidence and I relied too much on my parents, so      it was really hard for me during the first three months of my stay in Australia because I was always homesick. After I got more familiar with the environment and was able to adapt, it started feeling really great to be independent. I also worked in a Thai restaurant in a front-of-house role during the term break, which was great because I felt I would      never get this experience if I just stayed in Thailand.”

TESTIMONIALS FROM INBOUND STUDENTS

Ms. Sayane Takahashi
Nationality: Japanese
Major: Transcultural Studies

Home University: Japan Women’s University, Japan

“The MUIC campus has rich natural surroundings. I find that some cultural and seasonal events here are truly fascinating. Lastly, one of the best parts of this exchange experience has been making new friends from MUIC.”

Mr. Tyler Germaney
Nationality: British
Major: Graphic Design

Home University: Northumbria University, United Kingdom

“I quickly fell in love with Thai culture. In addition to having the invaluable experience to practice Muay Thai in the birthplace of the sport, I also have the opportunity to expand my knowledge of global design and see how different teaching styles and curriculums would change my approach to design.”

Ms. Kenna-Elysia T. Jones
Nationality: American
Major: Biochemistry Microbiology

Home University: University of Victoria, Canada

“MUIC has been a very open and accepting place; everyone is incredibly supportive to exchange students settling in. I was actually expecting stricter policies but was happily surprised by the collaborative environment.”

Ms. Jeanne Chaminas
Nationality: French
Major: Political Sciences

Home University: Sciences Po (Institut d'études Politiques de Paris Campus du Havre), France

“(A memorable experience) was when I wore Thai traditional clothes with my friends for a class project. It was very fun. (Among the best things in MUIC were) teachers who are helpful and knowledgeable. MUIC also has a good campus—I like the new building, the food court is really nice, and you have a lot of places inside the campus where you can study.”

Ms. Mariana Postoronca
Nationality: Moldavian
Major: Marketing

Home University: Roehampton University, United Kingdom

“From the moment I walked into my first marketing class here in MUIC, I knew I had made the right choice. The professors weren’t just knowledgeable, but      they were also industry experts, blending Western and Eastern strategies in ways I had never seen before. My classmates came from all over the world, each bringing their own perspectives, challenging me to see marketing in a new light. Here I made      so many friends and connections that would stay with me for a long time. Thailand has given me more than an education—it has given me a global perspective.”

Mr. Jannis Manuel Thiemann
Nationality: German
Major: Management Information Systems

Home University: University of Bremen, Germany

“One of my favorite moments in Thailand so far was participating in a boat tour of Bangkok with about 80 other MUIC students. Cruising the city’s waterways gave us an insight into Bangkok off the beaten tourist track. The diversity of the students, most of whom are from abroad but also some local Thais, made for a great atmosphere in the group. I also liked the relaxed pace of the tour; it wasn’t just about the sightseeing, but also about the shared laughter and spontaneous conversations that made the evening unforgettable.”

Ms. Obiley Tania Anani
Nationality: British
Major: International Business

Home University: University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom

“My most memorable moment so far at MUIC is when I attended Rubnong, the welcoming event for new full-time students. I was invited by a friend and I really loved this experience as I was able to involve myself in Thai cultural activities. I met loads of P’s (older brother or sister) who welcomed me and involved me in all aspects of Rubnong. It is truly a great way to immerse yourself in other cultures and get to meet great people.” 

Ms. Audrey Arant
Nationality: American
Major: Entrepreneurship and Marketing

Home University: Oklahoma State University, United States

“I chose MUIC for its outstanding reviews on business courses and academic opportunities. However, once I arrived, my decision quickly became about something even more meaningful—the unforgettable moments spent bonding with fellow international students. From immersing ourselves in the unique culture to making lifelong friends and exploring the stunning surroundings, every experience was truly special. If I had the chance, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!”

Achievers Abroad:

A Tale of Two Outbound Students

Mr. Weerapat “Kaow” Chiranon

3rd Year Biological Sciences
University Abroad: National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore

“My NUS research experience broadened my academic horizons and validated the quality of education provided by MUIC, demonstrating its effectiveness in preparing students for global academic and research challenges.”

Mr. Weerapat Chiranon spent two terms as an exchange student at the National University of Singapore (NUS), enrolling in mostly biotechnology courses.

Why go on exchange studies in NUS?  Weerapat  said he is up for a challenge. “NUS is a well-established university known for its competitive environment, active student body, and strong affiliations with reputable organizations,” he explained. “I wanted to experience a world-class academic setting and challenge myself in a high-pressure environment.” 

Indeed, during his second term in NUS, Weerapat participated in a research project under the guidance of a distinguished Mechanobiology advisor, Prof. Yusuke Toyama. The title of the senior undergraduate project is: “Investigating the role of neighboring normal cells in driving apoptosis of progerin-associated senescent cells in epithelia.” Weerapat explained, “By studying the interactions between these senescent (aged or damaged cells) cells and normal cells, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could inform new treatments for age-related diseases and cancer.”

Asked for the significance of this experience, Weerapat said, “It allowed me to gain invaluable international research exposure and deepen my understanding of the field.” He explained that “participating in a research project at the Mechanobiology Institute (MBI) of NUS allowed me to apply the theoretical knowledge and research methodologies acquired at MUIC to practical scenarios, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.”

Achievers Abroad:

A Tale of Two Outbound Students

Ms. Suwichaya “Khim” Sinsadok

4th Year Biological Sciences (Concentration: Biomedical Science)
University Abroad: University of Bristol, UK

“Both events made my exchange studies experience special since they made me feel like a part of the community that can actually make a difference to help other people or just to connect with new acquaintances from all around the world, exchanging different perspectives and making new friends.”

Ms. Suwichaya “Khim” Sinsadok had always dreamed of getting the opportunity to do her exchange studies in the United Kingdom. A self-confessed bookworm, Suwichaya said that she wanted      to learn more about life in the UK and make friends with British students. “I wanted to become part of the community rather than being an exchange student or just a tourist in the UK. I was brave enough to step out of my comfort zone because isn’t that what an exchange year is for?”

Aside from joining a student club, traveling solo to Scotland and Northern Ireland, relaxing in the park, and visiting museums, Suwichaya also joined two activities that helped define her stay in the UK for two terms.

First, she applied to     —and got accepted in—      the Bristol Institute for Learning and Teaching’s Hackathon on Experiences of International Students’ Teaching and Learning where she and 11 other international students from different countries attended a one-day conference to brainstorm and recommend      how to improve the international student experience and also the quality of student life in the University of Bristol.

Her other commitment was her participation in the university’s Language Café as a volunteer foreign language tutor.

“As a recipient of the Young Ambassador Scholarship for MUIC outbound exchange students, we were encouraged to spread Thai culture and represent a good image of Thai people and MUIC itself. In the Language Café, I taught Thai language lessons to University of Bristol students from all over the world and I also introduced them to our famous Thai food. I would say I did a pretty good job in helping to spread our Thai culture abroad.”

Weerapat and Suwichaya are but two of the MUIC students who have made good use of their time as exchange studies abroad, participated in productive activities, learning new insights and skills and also imparting their own knowledge gained from MUIC with their peers abroad.

Suwichaya’s Advice:

  1. An exchange studies experience whether for a term or a year will change your life without you even realizing it, especially because MUIC has a long list of partner universities abroad. You are definitely missing out if you’re not applying!
  2. Don’t be afraid to explore new things. Get out of your comfort zone. If it is the thing that you really want to do, then go for it. You only live once.
  3. If you do not know where you want to go for your exchange studies, I recommend you start by visualizing where you want to live, as your studies are an      important part of the exchange program. Living in a certain country will definitely shape your exchange experience.

Weerapat’s Advice:

  1. Thoroughly research courses and instructors: Investigate the courses available at the prospective university, particularly those that align with your major. Understanding who teaches these courses can open opportunities for engaging in projects or research collaborations, thereby enhancing your resume or CV for future job applications.

  2. Timing of your exchange: It’s beneficial to undertake an exchange after completing most of your core or foundational courses. This strategy allows you to enroll in specialized or theoretical courses unique to the host university, providing access to exclusive knowledge and perspectives.

  3. Select unique and specialized courses: Opt for courses that are distinctive to the host university and not merely standard offerings which may have similar curricula across institutions. The objective is to acquire unique insights and skills that are not readily available at your home university.

 

  1. Assess university competitiveness and environment: Research the academic rigor and competitiveness of the prospective university. Understanding the pressure levels and grading systems is crucial, as highly competitive environments can lead to increased stress. Reflecting on my personal experience as an exchange student at the National University of Singapore (NUS), I encountered a highly competitive academic environment. NUS employs a bell curve grading system for certain modules, meaning that grades are distributed based on relative performance. In this system, achieving top grades often requires outperforming a significant majority of peers, which can be daunting.

WHY IS MUIC AN ATTRACTIVE EXCHANGE STUDIES DESTINATION?

  • Offers a variety of excellent and interesting programs and courses
  • Holds numerous  diverse events on campus
  • Teaches courses  in English
  • Is located  close to Bangkok
  • Offers a chance  to experience Thai culture

SHORT-TERM STUDY PROGRAMS

Aside from student exchange, MUIC’s extensive network of overseas partners gives it the opportunity to offer short-term study programs to foreign students under the Project Development Unit (PDU) which provides customized programs according to specific academic requirements, program durations, and the budget to several partner universities and organizations. Each year PDU receives 16-20 groups of international students, with a total of approximately 350 – 400 students from partner and potential partner universities. 

RESEARCH COLLABORATION AND ACADEMIC SERVICES

In 2024 to early 2025, the Research Promotion and Management Section (RPM) and Academic Services Group (AS) are in varying degrees of collaboration with several potential overseas partners. Some are still in the process of discussion and negotiation, others have agreements that have been already signed while others have already resulted in successful joint projects.

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