Teaching, Travels, and Culinary Discoveries: Life as a Teacher in Battambang, Cambodia

Situated amidst the charming city of Battambang, Cambodia, I embarked on a remarkable journey as a teacher in a private school with multiple campuses. With a passion for education and a deep admiration for the culture of this vibrant city, I found myself working with a diverse range of students, all of whom were eager English learners.

The school was a bustling hub of activity, where the laughter and chatter of students filled the hallways. Each campus stood as a testament to the school's commitment to providing a nurturing environment for its students. The bright classrooms were adorned with educational materials, and the walls displayed the students' creative works, showcasing their progress throughout the year.

My role encompassed teaching both science and conversational English to students of various grades. These classes provided a unique opportunity to interact with a wide range of students, each with their own strengths and challenges.

I designed engaging lessons that challenged my students and encouraged critical thinking. In the science classes, I ignited their curiosity about the world around them, fostering a love for the subject. Conversational English sessions allowed them to develop the language skills necessary for effective communication.

The students' eagerness to learn was palpable, and it was a rewarding experience to see their language skills and scientific knowledge grow day by day.

Beyond the classroom, I lived with a friend who was also a teacher from a different campus of the same school. A few doors down from us, another friend and teacher resided, with 2 more not far away, and we often gathered to share stories of our teaching experiences. Weekends were a highlight as we frequented a Thai restaurant where our picture adorned the wall as a testament to our camaraderie.

After indulging in Thai cuisine, we would engage in spirited poker games that often stretched into the early morning hours. When dawn broke, one of my friends would embark on a mission to acquire delicious street food to refuel our tired bodies.

Weekends were also a time for exploration and adventure. Hosted by one of my friends, we embarked on long walking tours, delving deeper into the heart of Battambang. These tours allowed us to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the town's rich heritage and traditions.

In my time at the school in Battambang, I not only helped students master English and science but also formed lasting bonds with fellow teachers who shared my passion for education and adventure. My impact on the young minds of Cambodia left an enduring legacy, and my appreciation for the city's culture, as well as the camaraderie and friendships forged during those unforgettable weekends and walking tours, grew with each passing day.

In reflecting on my unforgettable journey in Battambang, I carry with me the cherished memories of teaching, travel, and the taste of Khmer (Cambodian) and Thai food, grateful for the profound impact this experience has had on my life.

Below are a few photos from my time in Battambang. The faces are covered of those who are under 18 as well as the Khmer teachers.

After a walking tour, I'm the one in the t-shirt that's gone see-through.

Us friends enjoying Thai food with a few drinks.

Cambodian Beef Lok Lak.

Cambodian Fish Amok.

A selection of Thai food from Monasamui in Battambang.

With some of my students.

The Spelling Bee.