by Zarya Poulava

When I came home, I had people ask me what the highlight of my trip was. I would say the people. I explored many different places in Vietnam, but the people made it more enjoyable. To explain those people, I have categorised them into three groups.

People from Home

First are the people I came with. Fortunately, I came to Vietnam with students from Waikato and Auckland University. In the first few weeks, some of us found it hard to adjust to the culture or were in culture shock. Thankfully, most of us were feeling the same way and were able to help each other. As we started to form a routine, we were able to spend a sufficient amount of time with each other. I am grateful for the friendships I made and the memories I’ve shared with them. I know they are going to do great in their future careers!

Work Colleagues = Friends

At the start, it was a challenge to build relationships with my work colleagues. Since I started work before Lunar New Year, we relied on technology to keep in contact. However, I was fortunate to meet one of them before they left for their holiday. My work colleague assigned me tasks for the next few months. After the lunar new year, I met with my work colleagues and got to know them. There were three of us, and we each came from different ethnicities. We were able to share interesting facts about our culture, which showed the diversity we had within our team. I will always be grateful to TYDE Consulting for accepting me into their company and helping me develop professionally and as a person.

The locals’ kind hospitality

I cannot explain the kind hospitality the locals have shown to me. First is the security guard in front of our apartment – our group will never forget him! Second, the CRCC Asia coordinators. They showed great hospitality and were always there for us. They scheduled time for us every Wednesday night and answered our numerous questions. I will always be grateful for them. Third is the local basketballers. I have a passion for sports and enjoy playing basketball. I saw a lot of basketball courts and decided to buy a basketball and shoot some hoops. The locals there asked me to join. From then, I would go to the courts regularly and get to know them. On my last week in Vietnam, they showed me some local food places, and I said goodbye to them.

The People are the Highlight of My Trip

Although I had some challenges come my way, the people overshadowed that. Those so-called challenges were no longer an issue. When you travel to unfamiliar places, the friendships you build help you adjust to the culture and environment. My cultural awareness improved by understanding Vietnamese culture, history, and traditions. I know these experiences will help me in my future career and as an individual.

Cảm ơn Vietnam, until we meet again.