Junior Jenny Marshall and her family welcomed their new guest, Jiji Punyaneramitdee, from Bangkok, Thailand August 14. The Marshall family became involved with hosting through the ASSE international student exchange program, specifically because their neighbor is the area representative for the exchange program. After applying online, the area representative came to their house for a home study and the organization contacted references to confirm the family’s credibility.
“I’m actually the one who kickstarted the whole process,” Marshall said. “I wanted a student so bad. Since my sister moved out it was like I was an only child in the house. We thought it would be fun and helpful for us to have a student, so we applied.”
Marshall said she was excited when she found out Punyaneramitdee would be staying with them. Her family knew immediately Punyaneramitdee was the right one for them when they viewed her application and soon began to anticipate the day of her arrival.
“We felt a bit anxious [the day she arrived],” Marshall said. “She arrived late at night, so all day we were making sure every little thing was perfect. I was constantly checking her flights.”
From February of this year to the time Punyaneramitdee arrived, she and Marshall communicated through e-mail to help her become somewhat accustomed to the culture.
“I explained all the differences and what to expect, as well as random information that would be helpful to know; anything from American guys and American food,” Marshall said. “When she got here I took her all around town so she would see the sights as soon as possible.”
Marshall said the most difficult part of hosting is getting used to having another person in the house and sharing the bathroom after being the only child for awhile. At the Marshall household, Punyaneramitdee stays in the guest bedroom.
“Since Jiji got here, I have [had] to get up earlier so we can both be ready on time,” Marshall said. “Our meals have been a bit different, too, because she gets hungry at different times.”
Thailand’s culture is much different than the culture here, as Marshall describes. She said she’s noticed that Punyaneramitdee’s culture is quieter and laidback, and respect is a bigger issue, a polar opposite from what the culture is like here in America. Despite the differences in culture, Marshall said she and Punyaneramitdee are alike in personality and interests.
“We are like the same person,” Marshall said. “We both love clothes, vintage stuff, cupcakes and ketchup. Even in Thailand, and eating Thai food here in America, along with any other food, she must have her ketchup. She is also a candy-holic, so we make stops at the candy aisles in stores quite often. We shop together every weekend and we also cook [and] bake together and go to church. ”
Marshall describes Punyaneramitdee as sweet and kind, never angry, and helps with anything and everything. The one thing Marshall said she will always remember about her when she leaves is her compassion for everyone, including herself. She said Punyaneramitdee has taught her to be more patient and tolerant.
“She is gentle and kind, attributes I wish I portrayed better,” Marshall said. “I’m impatient at times, but being around Jiji, I’ve noticed I’m more patient and that she creates a happy vibe where it’s impossible to be unhappy. Even in a different country, she is welcoming to all people and always has a smile.”
