Universities in Vietnam open their doors to many international learners with the majority coming from Laos and Cambodia yearly. In October 2024, Santisouk & Chetsada; two scholarship recipients from Lao People’s Democratic Republic, began their academic journey at Ho Chi Minh City Open University, known for its cultural diversity, proudly hosts international learners from various countries, including Laos, Cambodia, France, the Philippines and many more. With big dreams in their hearts, they set out on a path filled with both excitement and challenges.

Fueling Dreams: Why Santisouk and Chetsada Chose Vietnam

Since childhood, Santisouk and Chetsada had ambitions of studying abroad. Both saw Vietnam as a land of opportunity, offering not only quality education but also rich cultural experiences. Reflecting on their early days, Santisouk shared, “A scholarship from the government to study in Vietnam presents a wonderful opportunity for me to access quality education and foster my personal development.”

Chetsada also revealed how he had always envisioned this journey as an adventure. “Vietnam's rapid technological advancement and strong ties with my home country make it a dream of mine to choose as a study abroad destination.”

Overcoming Language Barriers: The Road to Mastering Vietnamese

Learning Vietnamese proved to be the biggest obstacle for both learners to overcome. Chetsada recalled his initial struggles with language barriers.“When I first arrived in Vietnam, learning Vietnamese was the main challenge for me. Sometimes, I found it difficult to grasp the different tones during conversations.” However, he managed to overcome this challenge by studying very hard and doing homeworks regularly from his Vietnamese class.

Santisouk also shared a similar opinion, “In a country where the locals speak Vietnamese as their native language, I often found it difficult to communicate and navigate everyday life. But my teachers are very patient and always ready to help when I face struggles in my study.”

Due to their hard work and the support of their teachers, they can now communicate confidently and feel more comfortable living in Vietnam.

Beyond Academics: The Hidden Talents of Santisouk and Chetsada

An outstanding student isn’t defined by academic excellence alone but also by talents in areas like soft skills and many more. Santisouk and Chetsada embody this well-rounded approach, excelling both in the classroom and beyond.

Santinsouk’s achievements go far beyond academics. Fluent in two foreign languages-Thai and Vietnamese, in addition to his native language. Passionate about giving back, Santisouk has participated in several charity projects like providing gifts to orphans, while contributing to his community during his time in Vietnam. His love for networking and cultural exchange also allows him to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, enriching his study abroad experience.

Chetsada, on the other hand, shines both academically and athletically. A talented sportsman, he has a deep passion for various sports including soccer, volleyball, badminton, and swimming. “I’m really passionate about playing sports,” he once shared. His skills on the field are remarkable, and his talent earned him a spot in the district soccer tournament.

Both Santisouk and Chetsada exemplify the qualities of exceptional learners, balancing academic success with extracurricular passions, making them truly stand out.

Personal Growth and New Horizons at HCMC Open University

Ho Chi Minh City Open University is more than just an academic institution; it's a space for learners' holistic growth. The university encourages self-discovery, builds soft skills, and fosters community integration through diverse extracurriculars, from city exploration to cultural exchange and volunteer work. It empowers learners to pursue their dreams and face any challenge with confidence.

Santisouk and Chetsada both expressed that “Ho Chi Minh City Open University is not just a great place to study; it’s also very welcoming to students like us. It feels like a second home for international learners, providing a warm atmosphere and creating a wonderful university experience.”

Through stamina and open heart, Santisouk and Chetsada continue to thrive in their study abroad journey, turning challenges into unforgettable memories. Their stories remind us that while the road may be tough, the rewards of growth, learning, and discovery are worth every step.