Monash Study tour in Vietnam: Culture, Economy, and beyond!
ABROADER March 18, 2023 7 minute read
Join Monash students on a unique study tour experience in Vietnam. Get an in-depth look at the country’s vibrant culture, economy and more!
Over the past few years, Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers and students. They are who seek to explore its unique culture and gain insights into its booming economy. This spring 2023, ABROADER welcomed Monash students from various disciplines to explore the country’s culture, economy, and beyond. Over the course of the tour, the students had the opportunity to learn about Vietnam’s rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic economy. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the Monash Study Tour in Vietnam, and explore some of the highlights of this unforgettable journey.
About the study tour / faculty-led program in Vietnam with ABROADER
As a Forum on Education Abroad (FEA) member, we are committed to Standards of Good Practice in all Faculty-led programs. And we are proud to be a trusted partner for returning from faculties. We care about the students’ academics and support the faculty with all the logistical procedures needed.
So what experience do the students gain in this program? From company visits, guest lectures, local culture knowledge, to local immersion activities, all are included in our unique Study tour. Our signature component of every program is the local buddies, a.k.a SEA Vietnam (Student Exchange Association Vietnam). Your students learn about Vietnam through students’ eyes! Now, let’s hop on the journey of students from Monash Business School to observe what exciting experience they got!
First day in Vietnam!!
Immersing into Vietnam’s culture and history
Vietnam is a country with a rich history and culture. And Monash students had the opportunity to explore it first-hand. Students participated in a range of activities that allowed them to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history.
Ho Chi Minh city tour
The first one in the Study tour in Vietnam is the Ho Chi Minh city tour. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and is famous for its French colonial architecture, bustling markets, and historical landmarks. During their visit, they could wander around and visit sites such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Cu Chi Tunnels, and the War Remnants Museum, which documents the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective. Another highlight of the program was attending a performance of the À Ố show. It is a unique fusion of traditional Vietnamese circus and contemporary dance that depicts Vietnamese life most originally. You should really try once when traveling in Ho Chi Minh City!).
Visiting Independence Palace
Out-of-border education
Aside from visiting cultural and historical sites, in the study tour in Vietnam, Monash students also engaged in a range of activities designed to foster cultural exchange and cross-cultural learning. Education is about experiencing different cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life. The best way to understand education in Vietnam is to have a learning visit to Vietnamese universities – such as the University of Social Sciences and Humanities. These activities included meeting and having interactively fun lessons with Vietnamese students and teachers. From then, we found out how undergraduate students in Vietnam study every day with discussion sections.
Through the guest lectures’ perspectives on Vietnam, they could understand more about Vietnam-related topics such as education in Vietnam; Vietnam Politics and Culture; Vietnam’s Economy; Corporate with Sustainable development; etc. Moreover, we even visited the Australian Consulate to learn about trade activities and future collaborations between Vietnam and Australia.
So what are the benefits of cultural immersion and cross-cultural learning for program participants? By experiencing Vietnamese culture firsthand, students can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the country’s history, customs, and way of life. They also learn valuable intercultural communication skills, which are increasingly important in our globalized world. Besides, cultural immersion and cross-cultural learning can help students develop greater empathy and understanding for people from different backgrounds. These can be beneficial in all aspects of their personal and professional lives.
Booming economy and business in Vietnam
Observing the increasing Vietnam economy from the lessons…
In addition to cultural immersion, in this study tour, we have offered them a unique opportunity to gain insight into the inner workings of the business and economic landscape of Vietnam! The program included guest lectures on Vietnam’s economy and sustainable corporate development. These lectures were delivered by local experts, providing students with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing Vietnam. The role of sustainable development in Vietnam’s economic growth and how companies apply it was an inspirational topic for the students.
Focusing on the CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Lecture.
… to practical company visits.
One of the highlights of the program with Monash is the company visits. Students had the opportunity to visit a range of businesses, including foreign-owned companies and start-ups – KPMG, Le&Tran Law firm, and Ascend Vietnam Ventures. During the company visits, students learn about the business practices and strategies that companies use to succeed in the Vietnamese market.
Foreign-owned companies, in particular, provide a fascinating perspective on doing business in Vietnam. These companies must navigate the complex regulatory environment and cultural differences, while also balancing the expectations of their parent companies. Students can learn about the strategies these companies use to succeed in Vietnam. How do these strategies compare to those used by companies in their home countries? On the other hand, start-ups offer a unique perspective on the Vietnamese business landscape. These companies are often more nimble and adaptable than larger corporations. And students could learn about the innovative business models and marketing strategies they use to succeed in a competitive market.
This study tour in Vietnam provides Monash students with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing businesses in Vietnam, and valuable insights into cross-cultural communication and adaptability. All are essential skills in today’s globalized economy.
And not to be missed, Living the Vietnamese Lifestyle
Absolutely, it’s not all work and no play! Our students have had the most unique experience ever – the Mekong Delta overnight tour. Exploring the winding waterways of the Mekong Delta by boat, observing the affluent farms and gardens, meeting local farmers and artisans along the way, and trying to make the specialty – “leaf cake” and many other dishes that satisfied all the foodies.
There was also a lot of fun on our brewery tour. This tour included stops at 3 craft beer tap rooms and a craft beer bar (all within an easy walk of each other in District 1, where participants learned pretty much about the beer-making process and sampled a variety of locally brewed beers.
But it’s not all about cultural experiences. We also make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for participants to relax and have fun. Our farewell party is always a highlight of the study tour program, with participants coming together to celebrate their time in Vietnam and say goodbye to their new friends.
60+ Successful customized programs with universities from the US, Canada, Japan, and Australia
Faculty-led
Vietnam
Spring & Summer 2024
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Apart from being a Forum on Education Abroad member with liability insurance, we are proud to be ONE – STOP SHOP CENTER for faculty leaders.
Last but not least, the program could not be a hit without the huge support of SEA Vietnam – Student Exchange Association Vietnam. SEA Vietnam is established to gather enthusiastic local students and the young generation. SEA Vietnam team are the local buddies that come along with Monash students throughout the program. Together, we have explored every little corner of Vietnam’s nature, culture, and life, and made it the most memorable moments ever. Since then, SEA members have improved their English communication skills and enhanced other essential skills for their careers. For example, how to make efficient teamwork, how to build strong connections, etc.
Thank you and see you soon in Vietnam!
At ABROADER, we believe that learning should be an immersive and enjoyable experience. Discovering the country’s unique blend of traditional and modern business practices, while making special memories with your fellow participants is what we are trying to do in our study tour programs. With SEA Vietnam and the enthusiasm of international students in Vietnam, we sincerely hope for a bright and dynamic 2023 while creating more and more value for the community. Join us on this meaningful journey!
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