Samar State University (SSU), through the Office of International Affairs (OIAS), proudly joins the global community in celebrating International Education Week 2024. As part of this celebration, we are delighted to share the experiences and impressions of our International Student Buddies from the Educators’ Guild during the “2-Week Exchange Program with Dong Thap University,Vietnam” hosted by SSU from October 13 to 25, 2024.
“Being a DThU student buddy has been an incredible journey, filled with meaningful friendships, unforgettable experiences, and the joy of cultural exchange. I am truly thankful for the opportunity to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, sharing our traditions, stories, and values while learning about theirs. These interactions have not only deepened my appreciation for my own culture but have also opened my eyes to the beauty of others. The bonds we’ve built and the memories we’ve created will stay with me for years to come, reminding me of the power of friendship and the enriching experience of embracing diversity.”
-Dave Prudenciado
BEEd
“The past two weeks as a student buddy for the Vietnamese exchange students have been a truly enriching experience. I’ve had the privilege of assisting them in navigating a new environment, beyond practical support, I’ve enjoyed sharing cultural insights, introducing them to local cuisine, eating Vietnamese cuisine, and creating opportunities for social interaction. Witnessing their enthusiasm and eagerness to immerse themselves in our culture has been inspiring. Through these shared experiences, I’ve not only helped them feel welcome but also gained a deeper appreciation for cultural exchange and friendship.”
-Jazzelmae Dorador
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
“Class, charming, and clever—these were my first impressions of the exchange students from Dong Thap University when I saw them at the convention on their first day at Samar State University. They were the ones who approached us when they noticed how shy we were to introduce ourselves. Throughout their tour and journey here, they demonstrated a deep loyalty to their Vietnamese culture while also showing a genuine openness to learning about other cultures, especially ours. They were in awe, deeply interested, and amazed by all the knowledge they gained. To my international friends, kamusta kamo? I hope you continue to be your true selves. Let’s see each other again next time!”
-Kristine T. Leseguis
BSEd Social Studies
“Serving as a student buddy to the Dong Thap University students was an incredibly rewarding experience. Building a connection with them came naturally, as we often shared a similar sense of humor that fostered harmony in our friendship. Their kind and charming personalities made every interaction delightful. Although I didn’t get to taste all their traditional dishes, I truly appreciated the food they generously shared, especially their flavorful noodles. Their intelligence and determination as student exchange participants deeply inspired me to aspire to the same opportunity one day. This experience highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and the joy of learning from diverse perspectives.”
– Mel Rian O. Almojeno
BEED
“Xin Chao! When Ma’am Maymay introduced us to the exchange students from Dong Thap University in Vietnam, I felt both excited and nervous, worried that we might not understand each other. But as days went by, we shared laughter and I grew to enjoy talking with them and being in their presence. We created many memories that I will always treasure, and many promises were made to fulfill. Being their buddy challenges my accountability skills. I must be accountable if something happens to them, and I must watch over and guard them to the best of my ability. I really enjoyed accompanying Pearl, Trinh, Ben, Heng, Tien, Ryan, Anna, and especially Lam.“
-Christian Keanne A. Nablo
BPED
All those days we have spent with our buddies from Vietnam were full of laughter and stories. It’s nice to have someone to talk to, who shares your humor, and ideas. They seemed shy at first but they opened up to us just like we did to them. Sharing our cultures, delicacies, and giving them a tour around the city was a core memory for us, their student buddies. At first, we were quite nervous to talk to them, but as time went by, we found out that they were very friendly and jolly. it’s a nice experience and our greatest honor to become their student buddies. We look forward to our next meeting, dearest buddies!
– Kathleen B. Dela Cruz
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
Over the past two weeks, my experience of being a student buddy to the students from Dong Thap University has been incredible. It was a refreshing opportunity and a privileged chance to share our cultures and learn from one another. Their warmth and friendliness toward everyone they met was truly inspiring. What stood out the most was their openness to trying new things and the effort to connect and understand despite the language barrier. Although their visit was short, it felt like we made memories that will last a lifetime. To our Vietnamese friends, cảm ơn! for allowing us to be part of your journey. We’ll always cherish the moments we shared. ‘Til we see each other again!
– Sheriah Faith Labid
BSEd Mathematics
It was a privilege to be chosen as one of the student buddies. I was amazed by the enthusiasm of these international students. Despite being unfamiliar with our country and province, they made a genuine effort to engage, learn, and understand our culture. I truly admire their respectful attitude and friendly demeanor toward the students of Samar State University.
– Khalen Maxine L. Nava
BSEd English
Being selected as a buddy for Dong Thap University student is a great privilege. It provided me with the opportunity to learn their language, culture, and beliefs. Although language barrier can hinder communication, they do not prevent us from expressing our ideas. I believe that being a buddy to an international student allowed me to connect and appreciate other culture.
– MARK LESTER J. RADOMES
What struck me most was how our differences didn’t divide us but instead became the bridge to understanding, and how they get along with us made us realize that even in distance, we are so close in hearts. Simple moments like going outside with them and touring them inside our campus are a very memorable experience. This is my first time having a friend overseas, and these vietnamese people are special, and I’m looking forward to seeing them again sooner.
– Mel john Gabane
BEED
Looking back, I’m reminded of just how much a small moment can become a big memory. I never thought that being a student buddy for the exchange students from Dong Thap University would feel like being part of a spontaneous adventure. It wasn’t just about showing them the campus or guiding them around town but about becoming their partner in what felt like a treasure hunt of new experiences. It was about finding humor in misunderstandings, sharing meals that tasted like memories, and realizing that every awkward moment of miscommunication only made us more connected. We were strangers once, but by the end, we were part of something much more meaningful than I expected. To my DThU friends, thank you for the memories! I hope our paths cross again someday.
– Mariel Correche
BSEd Mathematics
Hosting guests from another state is both an honor and empowering, I’m deeply grateful for the incredible opportunity to be a student buddy to Dong Thup University students from Vietnam. Sharing perspectives, traditions and values has broadened my understanding and fostered global citizenship. Our collaboration has not only enhanced academic knowledge but also promoted cross-cultural empathy, exchanged school cultures and strategies has created innovative ideas, showcasing the power of diversity. Thank you for your warmth, generosity and enthusiasm, I look forward to another astonishing thoughts, exploring our differences and similarities. Tôi yêu Việt Nam!
– Sonny Isanan
BEED
My experience with the exchange students from Dong Thap University was a once-in-a-lifetime memory filled with laughter and friendship. Although the time I spent bonding with them was short, it felt like this exchange program was a testament to uniting people from around the world. It enhanced our ability to connect despite cultural differences, bringing us closer together. This cultural exchange program strengthened our cultural identities and shared values, proving that even with language barriers, we can unite through culture and mutual understanding. Thank you for this unforgettable experience. I will surely miss them and hope the universe allows us to meet again. Cảm ơn rất nhiều!
– Johnmichael Bacurio
