Today we speak with Ice Akkaraphan Tawisak, the winner of the IDP IELTS Ambassador Generation 1 program. He shares his path from preparing for IELTS to the major opportunities that followed, including pursuing a master’s degree, earning an exchange scholarship in Hungary, and working as a language interpreter. Ice’s story is clear proof that developing your English skills can open doors to opportunities you might never have imagined.
Could you tell us about your starting point and inspiration for taking IELTS?
I first learned about IELTS in high school because many of my friends were preparing for it. Once I did some research, I realized IELTS is globally recognized and very important, especially for applying to international programs in Thailand.
During my bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, international program at KMUTT, there was a requirement that students must have an IELTS score of at least 5.5 to graduate. I also planned to use the score for further study. When I applied for a master’s at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), IELTS was required as proof of English proficiency because all instruction is in English.
My biggest inspiration is my dream of becoming a lecturer in an international program. I am already a tutor teaching mathematics and physics in English, which motivates me to keep practicing every day. I plan to pursue a PhD abroad so I can explore interesting research and live in a 100 percent English environment.
What are your preparation techniques and how do you handle the parts you find most challenging?
About one month before the test, I try to use English every day to build comfort and reduce nerves in the exam room. I also practice with many past papers to train my time management.
The most important thing is continuous practice. Practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the more clearly you see what to improve. I want people to view IELTS not just as a test for a score, but as training that develops English skills you will carry with you for life.
The most challenging part for me is Writing because you must be precise with spelling, unlike Speaking where getting your message across is enough. My solution is to practice writing without using auto correction, then check it afterward. When you find your mistakes, you remember them and avoid repeating them. Also, outlining before you write is very important. It helps you manage your time much better.
The most important thing is continuous practice. Practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the more clearly you see what to improve. - Ice
As the winner of the program, how was your experience as an IDP IELTS Ambassador?
I wanted to join this program so I could share my experiences and preparation tips with everyone. When I learned I had been selected as a first-generation Ambassador, I was thrilled and excited to present content through IDP IELTS Thailand’s channels.
Creating content was a lot of fun. It pushed me to plan how to tell a story so it connects and stays engaging, like sharing tips that help people practice English every day, not only during test prep. This program greatly improved my communication skills on video. At first I needed many takes, but later I hardly had to edit at all. It was a great way to build confidence. Lastly, I want to thank the entire IDP team for their support and for organizing such a great program.
Finally, could you share your real test day experience and any advice for future test takers?
I took the test at the IDP Silom center. Getting there by BTS Skytrain was very convenient. I arrived first that day. The atmosphere was excellent, and the staff were so helpful that I felt relaxed. The exam room equipment was complete, and the headphones were clear, which helped me concentrate fully. For Speaking, I treated it like talking with a friend, and the examiner was very kind. The 15 minutes passed very quickly.
When I saw my score for the first time, I was delighted to have met the university’s 5.5 requirement. I achieved an overall 6.5, which exceeded my expectations. I was especially proud of scoring 7.5 in Speaking and Listening. My IELTS score opened doors for me to pursue a master’s at AIT, receive a scholarship for an exchange in Hungary, and work as an interpreter. It truly became the gateway that shaped my future.
To all juniors preparing for the test, start practicing English in your daily life today. Do not be afraid to take action, and do not assume you are not good enough. If you begin and keep improving consistently, you will get better and a strong IELTS score will follow. Wish you all the best.
IELTS opened the door for me to pursue a master’s degree at AIT, receive a scholarship to study in Hungary, and work as an interpreter. It truly became the gateway that shaped my future.- Ice
If you would like to follow Ice’s stories and content, find him here:
IG: @akkharaice
TikTok: akkharaice
Facebook: Akkharaphan Thaweesak
