Tam Biet Vietnam; Leaving sinks in.
Posted by Brady on August 8th, 2009
Hey readers, it’s been 2 months since my last blog. I’ll try and fill you in with the deets. My experience here in Hanoi has been a huge learning experience and a definitely a memorable one. I’ve had a chance to explore this crazy country from north to south; mountain and sea. I’ve met alot of interesting people along the way learning something new from all of them. Simple conversations with strangers can be the most unique and perspective changing discussions you will ever have here.
Volunteering at WUSC has allowed me to see different motivations, paces, customs, and cultures in the workplace. Especially here in Vietnam where relationships are everything. It is more often than not that you will be more than just a colleague with the employees, but a true friend. Patience is definitely a virtue when entering another country and hoping that you will be able to make immediate change. Things will definitely not go as you had planned, but for me, those are the best times. We learn to adapt, while at the same time trying to advance. I feel that everyone at WUSC Vietnam has enabled me to grow in the right direction and am thankful for that. I’ve found that communication is key, especially in a place where there may be language barriers.
There will be times when you absolutely love your time here, but there are also times when all you can think about is going home. I think thats part of the whole experience and the reason why we come in the first place. To see the world in a different light and to try and understand why they see things this way. I have not fully understood the Vietnamese people, but I have a better understanding. In my opinion, the people here are eager to progress and are very open to the rapid change they are facing. It seems that all people, young and old, are constantly working. Many people from my generation realize that advancing their education opens many doors for them.
I hope the best for this country and that they are provided with the proper legislature, infrastructure, and guidance that such a young country needs. I’d love to come back here in 5-10 years and see the Vietnam flourishing as I have envisioned today.
Always adapt, never forget your own values
