April 2, 2025
International exchange programs provide students and faculty with invaluable opportunities for academic and cultural enrichment. From March 16-29, 2025, a delegation from Samar State University (SSU) composed of two SSU officials and 8 students participated in the Student Exchange Program at Dong Thap University and Tra Vinh University in Vietnam, immersing themselves in a diverse learning environment. In an interview with Dr. Elmer A. Irene, Director for International Affairs, and student participants Chassey R. Gabon, Krizley Armaneth A. Repol, and Justine Mae M. Cabarles, they shared their insights on adapting to new academic settings, engaging in cross-cultural collaborations, and embracing Vietnam’s rich traditions. Their experiences highlight the profound impact of internationalization on education, fostering global competence, personal growth, and stronger ties between institutions. This interview was broadcasted live on the DYSY Facebook page, where it was viewed by student buddies from Tra Vinh University and Dong Thap University.
The first to be interviewed by Ms. Joan J. Baclay was Dr. Elmer A. Irene, the Director for International Affairs, who provided valuable insights into the Student Exchange Program and the necessary preparations for students interested in participating.
Dr. Irene emphasized that there is a selection process in place to identify deserving students for the program which is conducted by department. He urged students who are interested in joining the exchange program to secure their passports as early as possible. Looking ahead, Dr. Irene announced that in preparation for the next exchange program, college deans should begin selecting participants to ensure a smooth process. With great enthusiasm, he announced that there will be a separate program for College of Education students to spend their internship in Vietnam for three months, designed to provide hands-on international teaching experience. Additionally, he highlighted that in the next exchange program, students should undergo basic language training, which will help participants adapt more effectively to their host country. Reflecting on the recent student exchange delegation, Dr. Irene praised the participants, describing them as an “almost perfect team.”
In the second part of the interview, student participants Chassey R. Gabon, Krizley Armaneth A. Repol, and Justine Mae M. Cabarles shared their insights on four key topics: their experiences in Vietnam, academic and cultural learnings, cultural exchange and personal growth, and the overall impact and key takeaways from the exchange program.
Ms. Justine reflected on the significant personal transformation she underwent during the program. She expressed her desire to return to Vietnam after graduation, emphasizing how the exchange program had a profound impact on her learning journey. The experience not only broadened her academic perspective but also provided invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
For Ms. Chassey, the program was especially meaningful as it marked her first international travel experience. She shared how her time in Vietnam inspired her to work harder in her studies, fueling her desire to explore and travel more in the future. Visiting Vietnam’s cultural and tourist sites was an unforgettable experience for her. She also highlighted how much she enjoyed Vietnamese cuisine and the warm hospitality of the people she met.
Meanwhile, Ms. Krizley encouraged her fellow architecture students to take advantage of opportunities to explore the world, as experiencing different architectural landscapes firsthand offers invaluable insights into their field. She emphasized that seeing actual infrastructures in real-world settings provides a greater understanding of design, structure, and cultural influences, making international exposure a significant advantage for aspiring architects.
The Student Exchange Program at Dong Thap University and Tra Vinh University proved to be a transformative experience for the Samar State University delegation, fostering academic growth, cultural appreciation, and international collaboration. Through firsthand exposure to Vietnam’s educational system, traditions, and people, participants not only enhanced their global competence but also gained valuable life lessons that will shape their future endeavors. As SSU continues to strengthen its commitment to internationalization, programs like these serve as vital platforms for developing well-rounded, globally competitive individuals. With the next exchange opportunities already in motion, the success of this program reaffirms the unparalleled value of cross-cultural learning in shaping future leaders and building lasting connections between institutions worldwide.
Furthermore, a second batch of interviews will be conducted on April 4, 2025, with Ms. Leahrine Cabangunay, Mr. Vincent Joshua Cruz, Mr. Dave Prudenciado, and Magic Vidad, where they will share their own experiences and reflections on the exchange program. Their insights will further highlight the impact of this international academic and cultural immersion, offering a broader perspective on the benefits of global education.
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