Hold your fire, my American friends! Before we dive into the quirky bits of my teenage exchange experience in the USA, let me set the stage: I’m from Thailand, a land as different from America as sticky rice is from a bagel. You might chuckle or frown at my cultural takes, and that’s fine—I’m here to shed light, not to spar. Keep in mind, these reflections come from a time long before TikTok could give us instant global insights—over a decade ago when I was just 15 and eager to explore.

1. The Gum-Chewing Gatekeepers

First off, why do all American immigration officers chew gum like it's going out of style? There I was, a nervous kid from Bangkok, trying to understand their mumbled questions through a cloud of minty breath. "Bitch, stop chewing!" I wanted to scream. Get it wrong, and I might have been sent packing all the way back home. A little pause on the gum would’ve been much appreciated.

2. America's Racial Fixation

Next up, America’s racial obsession was a shocker. In Thailand, we see the person, not the color of their skin. But in the U.S., it’s like there’s a hidden menu that only serves racial categories. Why the fixation? It’s sad to see people boxed in by the color of their skin rather than being appreciated for their individuality.

3. Celebrity Missteps and Public Outrage

Then there was the time Mikey Cyrus decided to poke fun at Asian eyes. The uproar was huge in the U.S., but back in Bangkok? Not so much. Here's my take: celebrities will do weird stuff, and we get to choose whether to laugh it off or get upset. Maybe we can save some energy for more serious issues?

4. Being Asian in Montana

In Montana, I was more of a novelty than a neighbor. "You’re my first Asian friend!" was flattering at first, but the novelty wore off. And no, I didn’t ride an elephant to school, in case you're wondering. The fascination was amusing at first, but eventually, it just felt like I was part of a strange exhibit.

5. Math Classes and Calculators

Why does everyone in America use calculators in math class? Back in Thailand, we actually solve problems using good old brain power. Relying on gadgets from such a young age seems to defeat the purpose of learning math. Where's the mental workout?

6. The Political Rollercoaster

And don’t get me started on American politics. How did Donald Trump get elected when it seemed like no one could stand him? It's like expecting a drama-free family reunion and then your crazy uncle shows up. As 2024 looms, I'm buckling up for another wild ride. What’s next, America?

Despite all the head-scratching moments, I fell in love with America, with Montana feeling like a second home. I dream of a lakeside retreat in Whitefish, but there's just one little problem—how the heck do I deal with the bears?! They're not the cuddly Winnie the Pooh types I imagined. They’re real and a bit terrifying! How does anyone manage to live among these beasts? Seriously, how can I escape them? Jesus!