@JFrancis *********
when you are in Thailand look over the options for longer stay. Popular is the Ed Visa for Thai language study... Up to one year if you are a legitimate student at regular visa and school course fees.
And as this is now delving into the options to stay longer in Thailand... I am closing comment.
The OP has his answer and we wish him well in his decisions.
For the gent who hijacked the post... He has his homework to study available options in staying longer in Thailand.