As an SPC student, I am honored to have a part of this experience with USF Tampa and USF St. Petersburg. Hanoi, Vietnam is a feast for the senses, hundreds of cars and motorbikes zooming by you driving fast and slow all at once. Our group of 14 students and 3 staff take adventures every day ensuring everyone is accounted for.

A visit to the US Embassy was symbolic of the growth from a tumultuous past and bright future. Exploring the North of Vietnam has included car rides, bus rides, and even overnight bus rides to Vihn. At Vihn we were greeted by  eager students who woke up at 5 AM to meet us. We have shared meals and ideas and the program will conclude in a group project addressing subjects both parties are interested in. We have eaten a wi de variety of cuisine from frog legs to Chicago style pizza. Between conversations in the classroom or coffee shop I have gotten to know the depths, struggles, and ambitions of US and Vietnamese students alike. I have come to realize our intricate similarities and differences in an amiable environment which I cherish.

Today we are off to our next adventure…caves.