Foreign Student “Falls in Love” with Vietnamese Culture

After a year on an international student exchange programme, a British student of Romanian descent has chosen to remain in Vietnam to immerse himself in the beauty of the country and its people. 

Vietnam is home to a significant number of international students worldwide, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the US, the UK, and Australia. However, the influx of foreign students into Vietnam remains quite modest. Breaking the trend, a British student of Romanian descent Mihaica Cezar-Alexandru (known as Alex) has chosen Vietnam as the destination for his academic journey. 

Alex is one of the few international students who has chosen Vietnam as his study destination. 

A Serendipitous Encounter with Vietnam 

“I’m a keen traveller. When the International Office at Staffordshire University announced the exchange programme in Vietnam, I jumped at the chance,” Alex reflects on his fortuitous journey to Vietnam. 

“During the programme, the International Office at British University Vietnam (BUV), where I’m studying, organised numerous visits. The highlights included a cultural immersion in Mai Chau, visiting an orphanage in Hanoi, and exploring the SOS Children’s Village in Hai Phong.” As a result, after a year of living and studying in the capital, Alex has become well-acquainted with and fond of life here, finding it “unthinkable” to leave Vietnam and return to the UK. 

The exchange activities at the university gave Alex a deeper insight into Vietnamese culture and cuisine. 

Similar to many foreigners who develop a fondness for Vietnam, Alex is particularly captivated by the country’s cuisine and the preservation of its cultural heritage. He also values the warm hospitality of the Vietnamese people, which has contributed to his sense of being welcomed. Although he encountered some cultural challenges, Alex has adapted swiftly, finding that these differences enhance the richness and memorability of his cultural experience. 

Alex’s enthusiasm for cultural exploration and preservation.  

For Alex, deciding to remain in Vietnam was not a difficult choice, thanks to the support from both his family and British University Vietnam (BUV). Having been independent since his early years, following his move to the UK, Alex is well acquainted with living away from home. His family is pleased to witness his maturity and adaptability. 

Regarding his decision to transfer to BUV in Vietnam, Alex explains: “My main concern was securing financial support for the upcoming academic year. I consider myself very fortunate to have been selected for the scholarship awarded by Mr Christopher Jeffery, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International, Strategy & Engagement). This scholarship has enabled me to continue my studies at BUV in Vietnam.” 

A Journey of Growth in Vietnam 

The willingness to change and adapt to a new environment is a commendable effort. For Alex, his success has been even more significant, as he has achieved substantial milestones within a short time at BUV. 

“During the final exchange programme, I noticed significant personal growth. I completed my first book, Placebo: The Way of Life, within three months and hope it will be published soon. In terms of personal development, I have observed marked improvements in my emotional intelligence (EQ)—a vital skill in both professional and everyday contexts,” Alex enthusiastically shares. He highlights the Personal Development Programme (PSG), a course that has enabled him to see tangible changes in various aspects of his life. 

The exchange programme between Staffordshire University and BUV led to a significant decision for Alex (standing, fourth from the left). 

Finding a connection with Vietnam has opened up numerous opportunities for Alex. Studying economics, he aspires to become an entrepreneur in the future. The British student believes that business opportunities are abundant everywhere, and as a global citizen, Alex can start a venture anywhere, especially in Vietnam—often referred to as the “rising tiger” of Asia. 

Alex’s insights not only reveal the personal journey of a British student who travelled over 10,000 kilometres to Hanoi but also contribute to shifting public perceptions of the quality of education in Vietnam. His experience highlights that the academic programmes at domestic international universities are on par with those at institutions abroad.  

Alex affirms “The faculty at BUV are highly experienced and adept at delivering exceptional value to students, fostering the development of each learner. This is something I deeply appreciate, as the quality of education is always a priority for me.” 

Alex (on the left) has integrated seamlessly and become a full-fledged student at BUV. 

In Alex’s eyes, he has never been concerned about whether studying abroad is considered “going against the grain” or “going with the flow.” Just like business opportunities, high-quality educational programmes are available everywhere, not just in the UK. 

“I’m particularly fond of a quote by Neale Donald Walsch: ‘Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.’ For students considering studying abroad, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, and I’m sure you will never regret it.”