FOUR-MONTH UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE AT HUFLIT FOR 7 STUDENTS FROM TEIKYO UNIVERSITY, JAPAN

In April 2024, a group of students from the Faculty of Linguistics, Teikyo University came to HUFLIT to participate in a 4-month English language study and Vietnamese culture experience program at the Faculty of Foreign Languages. This is the second year the program has been organized, following the success of the previous year.

This year, Teikyo students Shibuya Hinata, Akiyama Teruki, Aono Shota, Hamano Kosaku, Shimojima Kanamu, Kataoka Hayato, and Hosokawa Jiei had the opportunity to study specialized English and participate in many cultural exchange activities at HUFLIT. They not only learned from the classes but also participated in extracurricular activities such as academic activities, exploring Vietnamese culture as well as visiting famous places in and outside of Ho Chi Minh City.

As soon as they arrived at HUFLIT, the group was surprised by the enthusiasm of the lecturers and the dynamism of the students here. The lessons were no longer stressful but became memorable experiences, filled with laughter and unexpected joy. Grammar and vocabulary suddenly became “easier to eat”, and the students were also confident in sharing and communicating in English more often. Moreover, the supplementary subjects not only surprised them with their interestingness but also helped them discover new interests, such as the business field.

Besides studying, international students and HUFLIT students are always encouraged to show their strengths and their own colors. As “guest singers” in the Japan Discovery contest organized by the Faculty of Oriental Studies, Kanamu and Kosaku excellently completed the “mission” of stirring up the program and encouraging the teams. The audience below constantly cheered and responded. All of this created a lively and energetic atmosphere at the “6th floor sanctuary” of HUFLIT.

Let’s listen to your thoughts after studying and experiencing in Vietnam:

It can be said that one of the most important factors contributing to the success of the program is the great contribution of the support team of friends, also known as Buddy. This is a group of HUFLIT students assigned to support international students in their studies and integration into their new life.

At first, both sides were a bit shy, but with their “inherent” enthusiasm and cuteness, the Buddy friends quickly became reliable companions. Considered as “cultural – language – psychology” ambassadors, the Buddy group not only helps with studying and living but also introduces the beauty and cultural values ​​of Vietnam to new friends through culinary experiences, entertainment, and tourism in Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring locations.

To do this, the Buddy group must always regularly update the latest knowledge and information, ensuring to bring Japanese students “unforgettable” experiences.