Phuong from Vietnam

What was your main motivation to study at the HNU?

First and foremost, when researching the HNU online, I was genuinely impressed by the university’s website, modern facilities, and the robust support system provided for students. These factors made me feel welcome and confident that this was the right academic environment for me to grow. Additionally, HNU offers a practical curriculum that perfectly aligns with my aspirations. The programme allows me to delve deeply into theoretical knowledge while honing professional skills and staying up to date with the latest industry trends. That is why I chose the ICCMM programme. It offers exactly the interdisciplinary training I need.
 

What were your biggest concerns?

Living abroad for the first time, I faced many fears regarding the unknown and the uncertainty of what lay ahead. However, I’ve come to call that the "beauty of the unknown." For me, this is an expedition dedicated to my youth. It challenges everything I’ve been taught and the firm beliefs I once held. It has even dismantled the version of myself I thought I knew. I’ve realised that this journey has changed me in ways I could never have imagined before. Personally, living abroad isn't always comfortable. There are no familiar home-cooked meals, no family by my side, and I have to navigate new languages and adapt to a completely different culture. Yet, these are invaluable experiences. They have forged a sense of courage, independence, and resilience that I simply wouldn't have found in my home country. If you are curious, adventurous, and want to discover both yourself and the world, don't miss this chance!
 

Would you recommend a stay abroad? Why?

To me, life is a series of experiences. So why not try the taste of German sausages, sip a beer while overlooking the Danube River, visit ancient castles, or dance your heart out at a techno night? Why not experience falling snow or living in sub-zero temperatures (something we never have in my country! :D). I don’t just learn from school. I learn from experiences and the people around me. Changing your environment brings many challenges, but it is equally exciting and rewarding.

What did you learn from your stay abroad?

Beyond academic knowledge, I learn something new every day. I’ve learned German punctuality, the flavours of Arabic cuisine, and how to live and work with people from different religions, cultures, and languages. I’ve made friends from every continent, each bringing a unique cultural perspective. This has taught me to be more open-minded and respectful. Most importantly, I’ve learned to manage my own expectations. This has taught me to calmly accept that there is so much I don't know and that things won't always go as planned. This mindset helped me feel comfortable and integrate quickly into life in Germany.

Were your expectations met?

My goal was to explore the world and develop myself. Having been raised in an East Asian culture rooted in "wet rice civilization’’, I chose Germany, the heart of Europe, because I wanted to understand why Germans prefer bread over rice, or why Westerners don't use chopsticks. More importantly, by placing myself in a new environment, I see myself more clearly and ask even more questions about the world. Difference nurtures curiosity, and curiosity nurtures courage.

Is there anything you would like to highlight about your experiences at the HNU?

●    Open Educational Environment: The opportunity to present your views, be creative, and test new ideas.
●    Multicultural Atmosphere: It's easy to connect with students from all over the world and access diverse cultural perspectives.
●    Modern Facilities: Classrooms and specialized rooms (recording studios, film sets, photography labs, etc.) are equipped with the latest professional technology.

More impressions and information about Phuong's experience abroad can be found on Instagram (opens in a new window).