Khruu Mia currently teaches our Level 9 (Beginner) and Level 11 (Pre-Intermediate) English for All group courses, as well as private lessons. Today she managed to squeeze some time in her busy schedule to talk with us about herself, her work and her life here in Phuket.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in New York City.
How long have you lived in Thailand?
I’ve lived in Thailand for a year and a half.
Why did you decide to teach English in Phuket?
I came to Thailand to train Muay Thai originally, and then I fell in love with Phuket, and my boyfriend who I met here, so I decided to stay! I decided to take a TEFL course to see if I would enjoy teaching, and I loved it, both learning more about the English language and learning how to be a teacher.
How would you describe your teaching style?
I think I’m fairly strict, but I also try to keep my classes entertaining and comical when appropriate. English has so many exceptions and many rules that don’t seem to make much sense, and I think finding the humor in that helps my students relax and enjoy their class.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m an only child, so my parents definitely miss me and are excited for the day that I decide to move back. I grew up in New York City and majored in television writing at NYU. During that time I ran a karate summer camp for three summers before I moved to Thailand. Since I moved to Thailand I have had three Muay Thai fights! Now that I’m working I’m not training as much but I still run in the mornings before work.
How do you like to spend your holidays and days off?
I usually spend my weekends with my friends, eating great food, occasionally going to the beach, or going to the movies.
Can you speak Thai?
I took 60 hours of Thai lessons when I first arrived in Thailand, so I have a fairly good understanding of the basics, but not much else. I can understand more than I can speak.
What are your recommendations for the following:
- Restaurant: Wilson’s for breakfast and lunch, Catfish for dinner, both in Nai Harn
- Thai food: Ginger chicken (gai pad khing)
- Where to watch the sunset: Nai Harn beach or Kata Rocks (go for the sunset, buy a slightly expensive drink and they bring you free tapas!)
- Market: Naka Weekend Market, you can find everything there and the food is great
- Sightseeing: Promthep Cape