Hands-on, field-based learning directly from the people involved in creating a more sustainable world, designed in collaboration with local communities.

What is Unique about this Program?

• Cornell students have had excellent experiences on this program.
• Unique Expedition Field Courses take you from remote hill tribe villages in the North to the islands in the South. Backpack, sea kayak and travel through the landscapes you are studying.
• Focus on sustainable food systems, political ecology of forests, and coastal environments of the south
• Assignments include everything from a coral reef survey to ethnographic research.
• Live with local families in urban Chiang Mai and in rural villages throughout Thailand.
• Study Thai language and culture intensively, both inside the classroom and out

I attended the program in Spring 2024 and have lots of good things to say about my experience. Above all, the most valuable aspect of my time with ISDSI was getting to connect with Thai culture across several beautiful, rich regions of the country. I loved learning the Thai language and using it to make conversation with Thai people, who were always nothing short of graceful, sweet and welcoming. I also got to experience mountains, islands, big city life, and rural village life all in one semester. The scenery in Thailand is amazing and the people you encounter will enhance your experience to the max. In the field expedition courses (months 2, 3, and 4), you can expect to really bond with your fellow students & field instructors as well. This made my time in Thailand very valuable.

I would say that before committing to ISDSI, you should get a good understanding of the program logistics and what sorts of environments you will be put in. Most notably, I think you’ll succeed at ISDSI if you are willing to 1) embrace living in a totally new environment (including rural homestays), 2) put effort into learning & using the local language, and 3) spend time doing physical activities outdoors. If this sounds like you, I believe you’ll make the most of your time in Thailand. It’s a magical country with so much to offer, and I hope some of you get to experience it. And by the way, I studied CS at Cornell— I would say any major can succeed in the culture & ecology-focused courses at ISDSI if you bring enthusiasm & curiosity.

Alec Hill, ISDSI Alum, Spring 2024

Why Thailand?

Thailand is a beautiful country full of contrasts.  Experience and study different ecosystems.  Be challenged intellectually and physically.  Collect and examine data through multiple methods.  Learn from leaders in organic farming, conservation, elephant care, and more.

Some tips:

• Go to the “Get Advice” page for information on drop-in advising hours, scheduling an advising appointment, returned student contacts, and college advisors for study abroad
• Contact ISDSI directly at info@isdsi.org
• See ISDSI's COVID-19 response

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. You may complete both steps simultaneously, but the Cornell approval process must be complete before your program advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit any approval or nomination to the program.

1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page.
2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. (Note: This deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval. Many programs fill by rolling admission.)