Student Spotlight: Ashley Saddler Jr. in Vietnam

What is one challenge you experienced during your first month? How did you overcome that challenge?

“One challenge I experienced was the language barrier and the difficulties in pronunciation of the words and tones. I have worked to overcome this challenge by going back to the basics and tackling how to properly pronounce the vowels, consonant clusters, and common phrases.”

What similarities and differences have you experienced between your host culture and your culture?

“Similarities between my host culture and my culture that I have experienced would be the importance of politeness and respect, though how it’s expressed is different. Using correct pronouns are also different like chị, anh, bà, ông, etc. Those are used to respect age and status as well as using both hands when giving and receiving items.”

What are you looking forward to experiencing in your second month abroad?

“I am looking forward to making more connections and seeing new places like Hoa bình. I am also looking forward to my improvements in speaking tiếng việt in order to communicate better.”