大三出國、全英語課程 - 國際視野 : 淡江大學大三出國通報及學分採認系統

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2023大三出國輔導通報系統 - 留學心得報告[編輯]

觀光Ａ 409860011 　林欣慧　　留學學校：國民經濟大學(越南)

(一)基本資料

University: National Economic University, Vietnam City: Hanoi, Vietnam Duration: One year (From 2023/08 to 2024/06) Course Overview: During my one-year exchange program at National Economic University, I took the following courses related to tourism: -Introduction to Vietnamese Tourism This course provided an overview of Vietnam's tourism industry, including its history, major attractions, and development strategies. -Hospitality Business Management Covered key concepts in managing hospitality businesses, including customer service, operations, and strategic planning in hotels and restaurants. -Supply Chain Management Focused on understanding the entire process of goods or services from production to consumer, emphasizing efficiency, cost reduction, and customer satisfaction. We also learned the strategic significance of supply chain decisions for organizational success and competitive advantage. -Business Management Explored the operations of an organization and how to achieve its objectives efficiently. We also learned about decision-making, resource allocation, and team coordination to drive success in today's competitive business landscape. -Basic Vietnamese Language A foundational Vietnamese language course to help us adapt to local life and culture. Through these courses, I not only deepened my understanding of tourism theory and practice but also enhanced my knowledge of Vietnamese culture and its tourism environment. (190字)

(二)課程學習

【照片說明：Picture of my classmate presenting 】

My favorite course was Hotel Business Management. There are various reasons why this course has become my personal favorite. Firstly, the professor possessed extensive professional knowledge about the tourism industry, with over 10 years of working experience in the field. Unlike typical instructors, he encouraged us to explore and expand our creative ideas. One notable assignment was the hotel construction project, which differed from a similar project I had in Taiwan. This assignment required us to design a hotel specifically for Vietnam, offering a unique learning experience that deepened my understanding of Vietnam's geography from scratch. Being the only foreign student in class, my classmates were really kind to me. Together, we came up with an eco-friendly hotel plan at Ninh Binh! I really enjoyed brainstorming with my teammates about more eco-friendly products that we could possibly use to replace the traditional toiletries. This collaborative effort was enriching, as it allowed us to combine our diverse perspectives and ideas, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. The process of designing an eco-friendly hotel not only honed my teamwork skills but also heightened my awareness of sustainable practices in the hospitality industry. Another unforgettable assignment I had was interviewing 5-star hotel managers and writing a report about it. I felt truly inspired by this assignment. We got to ask the managers all kinds of questions, such as their daily routines and what they consider qualities of successful managers and workers. I remember asking, "How do you balance life and work?" and realizing that even top managers struggle with this problem. In fact, the more responsibilities one has, the harder it is to balance. Without this assignment, I probably would never have met and spent so much time with such great managers. What’s even better was that there were multiple teams in the class, so together, we got to see interviews with six different managers! This experience not only broadened my understanding of hotel management but also provided valuable real-world insights that will be beneficial in my future career. Additionally, the course structure was designed to provide practical, hands-on experiences that complemented theoretical learning. The balance between classroom instruction and field assignments allowed me to apply what I learned in a real-world context, reinforcing my knowledge and skills. The professor's approach to teaching, which emphasized creativity and practical application, made the course engaging and highly relevant to the current trends in the hospitality industry. Furthermore, the supportive and inclusive environment in the classroom played a significant role in my positive experience. As the only foreign student, I initially felt apprehensive, but my classmates' kindness and willingness to collaborate made me feel welcome and valued. This inclusiveness not only enhanced my learning experience but also helped me build strong relationships and networks that will be beneficial in my future endeavors. In summary, Hotel Business Management became my favorite course due to the professor's expertise, the innovative and practical assignments, the collaborative and inclusive classroom environment, and the valuable real-world insights gained from interacting with industry professionals. This course has significantly enriched my academic and professional journey, providing me with the skills, knowledge, and experiences that will be crucial in my future career in the hospitality industry. (534字)

(三)生活環境

【照片說明：My Homestay Mom & her cute cat 】

I lived in a district called Hai Bà Trưng where most residents are locals instead of tourists. The location of my homestay is a convenient 10-minute walk from my university. This district is far from the main tourist spots, which makes the daily expenses lower, but one can still find cheap and delicious cuisine. Additionally, it is a well-developed area with hospitals, schools for all ages, restaurants, and well-equipped transportation options. I find this area highly comfortable to live in.My homestay family is the best on earth. They are incredibly kind and generous to me. I have a spacious room to myself and a private bathroom. They often cook meals for me and even do my laundry. This level of hospitality has made my stay in Hanoi extraordinarily pleasant and has provided me with a supportive home environment. The surroundings of my university are quite similar to Tamkang University but smaller. Their campus is impeccably clean, and we always see workers maintaining the buildings. Not to mention, the library is magnificent; it’s literally like a café! I always go there between my classes to study or relax. The modern facilities and serene atmosphere make it an ideal place for academic pursuits.Speaking of the weather in Hanoi, it is almost the same as in Taipei. It’s extremely hot during the summer and very cold during the winter. I have to wear my thickest jacket to keep warm during the colder months. However, a blessing in disguise is that Hanoi doesn’t rain as often, but when it does, the rain pours down heavily. Despite the occasional downpours, the weather overall is manageable. One of the most memorable aspects of living in this district is the local community's hospitality. When I go to buy food, people here are always patient and helpful once they realize I am a foreigner. Their friendliness has made my transition to living in a new country much smoother and more enjoyable. This cultural immersion has allowed me to experience Vietnam authentically and has significantly enriched my understanding of the local way of life. Living in Hanoi has been a profoundly rewarding experience. The combination of a supportive homestay family, a well-equipped living area, and a vibrant university environment has made my exchange program exceptionally fulfilling. The insights gained from interacting with locals and adapting to a new culture are invaluable and have broadened my perspective on the world. (406字)

(四)自我成長

【照片說明：Delicious Bánh cuốn 】

This is my favorite part of the report. When I first arrived in Vietnam, I thought the traffic would give me a heart attack anytime—LOL. The language barrier made it extremely difficult to adapt to local life. I had trouble buying food, using transportation, and communicating with my homestay family. There were days when I was so scared to go out and buy food for myself that I would starve all day. However, things started to improve after I began picking up some Vietnamese from my landlord. After 3-4 months of living here, I was able to understand basic conversations with my landlord and order food by myself. Now that I think about it, I am really grateful for having struggled with the language at first because that is what encouraged me to start learning more Vietnamese. After gaining a basic understanding of Vietnamese, I realized that Vietnamese and Mandarin Chinese have a lot in common, both linguistically and culturally. This discovery made me feel even more connected to Vietnam, which now feels like my second home. Speaking of culture shock, one notable experience was seeing how people here often call each other brothers and sisters. They would start chatting with strangers while waiting at traffic lights, which really surprised me. After living here for six months, I started adopting their hospitality, and I feel that it has significantly changed my personality. I have become more outgoing and no longer suffer from social anxiety as often.In addition to overcoming the language barrier, I also made Vietnamese friends. They would take me to local Vietnamese cuisine restaurants, introducing me to new foods I had never tried before. Trying dishes like shrimp paste was initially challenging for me, but I always reminded myself to be open-minded, just as I did whenever I encountered challenges in Vietnam. Reflecting on my time in Vietnam, I see how these experiences have profoundly impacted my personal growth. The initial struggles with the language and adapting to a new culture pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop resilience and adaptability. Learning to navigate daily life in a foreign country, building meaningful relationships with locals, and immersing myself in Vietnamese culture have all contributed to a transformative experience. Overall, my time in Vietnam has been incredibly rewarding. The combination of overcoming challenges, embracing a new culture, and forming lasting connections has made this journey unforgettable. I now feel a deep sense of belonging in Vietnam, and I am grateful for the opportunity to call it my second home. (426字)

(五)大三出國建議

Embarking on a study abroad program is an exhilarating adventure, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Having spent a year in Vietnam, I have gathered some insights and tips that can help make your journey smoother and more enriching. Firstly, be prepared for the initial culture shock and language barrier. When I first arrived in Vietnam, the traffic alone was overwhelming, and not speaking the local language made daily tasks daunting. However, don’t let this discourage you. Embrace the opportunity to learn the local language, even if it’s just the basics. It took me about 3-4 months to start understanding basic conversations and to order food on my own, but this effort paid off immensely. Not only did it make daily life easier, but it also deepened my connection to the culture and people. Living in a local district rather than a tourist area can also enhance your experience. I stayed in a district where most residents were locals, and this allowed me to immerse myself more fully in the culture. Although it was challenging at times, such as when buying food or taking transportation, the local community was incredibly supportive and patient once they knew I was a foreigner. This immersion helped me feel more at home and less like an outsider. Making friends with locals can significantly enhance your experience. My Vietnamese friends introduced me to local cuisine and customs that I would have otherwise missed. Trying new foods and participating in local traditions can be intimidating, but maintaining an open mind will enrich your cultural understanding and make your stay more enjoyable.Additionally, take advantage of the academic resources available at your host university. The library at my university was a magnificent place to study and relax, much like a café. Utilize these spaces to meet fellow students and integrate into the academic community.Finally, remember that challenges and discomfort are part of the growth process. The initial difficulties I faced with language and cultural differences ultimately made me more resilient and adaptable. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for personal growth. Overall, your study abroad experience is what you make of it. Approach it with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a spirit of adventure. This journey will not only enhance your academic knowledge but also broaden your global perspective and enrich your personal growth. Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases: Knowing basic phrases for greetings, directions, and shopping can significantly ease your daily interactions. Apps like Duolingo or language exchange meetups can help. Use Translation Apps: Google Translate can be a lifesaver for communication, especially in emergency situations or when you need to understand written text quickly. Understand Local Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to avoid unintentional offenses. For instance, always use both hands when giving or receiving something to show respect. Download Local Apps: Apps like Grab for transportation, Foody for food delivery, and Zalo for messaging are widely used in Vietnam and can make daily tasks easier. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: The climate in Vietnam can be quite hot and humid, so drink plenty of water. Explore local markets for fresh and affordable fruits and vegetables. Get a Local SIM Card: Having a local SIM card will keep you connected and make it easier to access maps, translation apps, and contact locals. Providers like Viettel and Mobifone are reliable options. Secure Your Belongings: Petty theft can be an issue, so always keep an eye on your belongings. Use a money belt, keep your bag zipped, and avoid flashing valuables in public. Learn to take local bus: Taking bus in Hanoi will save you a lot of money. Just remember to always bring cash with you. By the way, keep your cash small! What I mean is 500,000 VND or is really inconvenient to use because most vender doesn’t have enough change for you. Understand Local Food Safety: Eat at busy food stalls and restaurants, as high turnover usually means fresher food. Avoid tap water and opt for bottled water instead. Stay Informed About Weather and Air Quality: Hanoi and other cities can have high levels of air pollution, so check the air quality index (AQI) regularly and wear masks when necessary. Also, be prepared for the rainy season with appropriate clothing and gear. Know Emergency Numbers: Memorize or have easy access to important emergency numbers such as 113 for police, 114 for fire, and 115 for medical emergencies. Budget Wisely: Keep track of your spending and create a budget. Use cash for small purchases and always have some on hand, as not all places accept credit cards. If you have enough budget, many of my friends took advantage and travel through southeast Asia countries like Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand! Stay Healthy: Locate nearby clinics and hospitals in case of illness. Purchase travel or health insurance that covers medical expenses in Vietnam. By keeping these hacks in mind, you can make your experience living alone in Vietnam smoother and more enjoyable! I hope you will enjoy Hanoi as much as I do! (846字)