For Release
June 9, 2005

Cadet recently returns from Thailand study abroad program

Citadel Cadet David Oaks of Gambrills, Md., recently spent three weeks in Thailand as part of a study abroad program coordinated by Kennesaw State University.

Cadet David Oaks, center, poses with cadets from the Royal Thai Police Academy after spending time on the shooting range. Oaks spent three weeks this summer in Thailand as part of joint study abroad program between The Citadel and Kennesaw State University.

Oaks, a rising junior, spent time comparing Thailand's criminal justice policies and practices with those of the United States under the leadership of Professor Sutham Cheurprakobkit of Kennesaw State University. Along with other students, Oaks lived and studied at Chulalongkorn University and visited numerous cultural and historical sites.

In lecture and discussion settings, students learned about the structure of Thailand's national police force, the Royal Thai Police Academy, criminal trials and the death penalty in Thailand.

In the fall, Cadet Oaks will present the results
of his study, which received funding from The Citadel Foundation, to cadets and faculty during a forum to be held by the Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice.

"My experience in Thailand was amazing. We also visited the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, several police stations, the women's prison, and my favorite was the Royal Thai Police Academy," Oaks said. "The academy reminded me so much of The Citadel."

A graduate of South River High School, Oaks is a criminal justice major and is scheduled to graduate in May 2007. He is the son of Ed and Linda Oaks of Gambrills, Md.

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