From teaching the Thai language to guiding students in communication, and now dedicating herself to preparing them for life beyond university, Dr. Chanokporn “May” Puapattanakun inspires curiosity, confidence and lifelong learning. 

On the topic of education, a line from Miuccia Prada, the famous fashion designer, stands out:

“Study study, study. Watch movies, watch art and read literature.”

It reflects a deep respect for learning and the belief that curiosity and passion should serve a greater purpose: to make life better. This mindset transcends boundaries; it is a reminder to stay curious and to understand what you do by exploring your interests. 

Education builds strong foundations, but its true value lies not in attending classes or taking tests – it comes from lessons that can be applied practically in everyday life.

In this edition, we turn to our Future Lister, Dr. Chanokporn “May” Puapattanakun, or Ajarn May. In 2004, Ajarn May walked into Mahidol University, carrying a love for the Thai language and a mission beyond textbooks. Today, she is still inspiring students and imparting lessons that go beyond the classroom that shape how they approach life and learning before they leave the university. 

The Beginning: A Passion for Thai Language

Her journey begins at Chulalongkorn University, where she earned a BA in Thai with a minor in English and history, followed by a Master’s and a PhD in Thai language and literature. Each stage of her education reflects a deep devotion to the beauty and power of language. 

In December 2004, she joined the Thai Language Programme at the Faculty of Liberal Arts, Mahidol University as a lecturer, a role she held for nearly 16 years. In her classroom, each lesson became a space for confidence to grow, for Thai to be spoken with clarity and pride.  Drawing on her experience in public speaking and writing competitions, she turned theory into practice. Beyond exams and assignments, these skills helped students communicate effectively in journalism and media while keeping the Thai language alive as a living culture and passing traditions to the next generation. 

She advanced through several positions, including Assistant Dean of Student Affairs in 2013, Assistant Dean of Quality Development and Corporate Communications from 2014 to 2016, and Associate Dean of the same department until 2018. Between 2016 and 2018, she also served as Programme Chairperson of the Thai Language Programme. Each role allowed her to work more closely with students and understand their needs. 

Now, she serves as a professor in the Bachelor of Arts programme in Eco-cultural Entrepreneurship at Mahidol University, Nakhon Sawan campus, and as Director of the Center for Life-integrated Learning. This role moves her beyond traditional language classes, focusing on empowerment, confidence and creativity in real-world contexts.

Inspiring Lifelong Learning

Her dedication to helping students develop practical life skills shines through on We Mahidol, working with the Center for Life-integrated Learning at the official multimedia platform and mobile app of Mahidol University. The platform shares knowledge, lifestyle, campus tours and news from the perspective of students and staff. It serves as a digital hub for university community engagement, highlights campus culture and provides student-focused information. Under Ajarn May’s guidance, she provides education on what matters in real life in an engaging and accessible way. 

One video addresses a common communication challenge in society. More people rely on written text, especially on social media, yet professional writing remains difficult. Messaging friends feels natural, but emails can cause confusion. Many struggle with how to start, structure the message and maintain politeness and professionalism. Ajarn May outlines what not to do when writing an email, highlighting mistakes that undermine clarity, tone and effectiveness. Her content also covers practical topics, from first jobber, which prepares students for job applications, to techniques for transforming spoken Thai into effective writing, as well as tips on improving speaking habits like unintentionally talking too fast.  

On another segment of We Mahidol, she hosts TCAS Clinic. The show helps students check their readiness for entrance exams and offers tips for choosing faculties that match their interests and strengths. Guests include professors, experts and students from various faculties and departments at Mahidol University, providing guidance and insights. 

One episode introduces viewers to the world of innovators, showcases state-of-the-art labs, modern equipment and an environment that nurtures the next generation of creators. Ajarn May explains how tools such as ChatGPT and other online resources support students in discovering their strengths and interests. 

Another show, May I Talk to You?, faces Ajarn May with artists and influencers from diverse fields. The programme explores lifelong learning, self-discovery and the challenges they have encountered. Each guest shares experiences that inspire viewers to reflect, adapt and grow. 

In one episode, she speaks with Niti “Pompam” Chaichitathorn, a talented artist, actor, host and producer behind popular shows such as Talk with Toeys and Toey Tiew Thai. Few know that Pompam graduated from one of the fields with the highest unemployment rates, yet he carved a successful path in the entertainment industry without a direct background. Despite years of diverse experiences, he continues to reflect on his skills and adapt to a fast-changing world. The episode highlights the lessons he draws from his journey and the mindset needed to navigate a dynamic career.

Through her teaching, leadership and multimedia projects she encourages curiosity, confidence and a love of learning beyond the classroom. She helps students express themselves, think critically and approach life with clarity and purpose. Whether in a lecture hall, on We Mahidol or in conversations with creators and innovators, her work turns knowledge into practical skills that preserve language and culture while promoting lifelong learning for future generations.