My Time Abroad: An Overview

My time abroad in Vietnam has been a fascinating journey filled with both expected and unexpected experiences. As a recent finance graduate, I was eager to immerse myself in the professional and cultural landscape of Vietnam, and so far, it has been an enriching experience.

Expectations vs. Reality

In many ways, my time here has aligned with my expectations. I anticipated challenges related to language and cultural adjustments, but I also looked forward to the vibrant environment and professional growth opportunities. What I did not fully anticipate was the depth of the cultural nuances and the impact they would have on my daily interactions and experiences.

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Hardest Part in Relation to My Identities

The hardest part of my time abroad has been navigating the language barrier and cultural differences. Although I understand Vietnamese, the regional dialects and expressions often leave me puzzled. Additionally, balancing my identity as a finance professional with my cultural background has sometimes been challenging. I strive to maintain professional standards while also respecting and adapting to local customs and practices.

Impact of Identities on Relationships and Experiences

My identities as a finance professional and a Vietnamese expatriate have significantly influenced my interactions and experiences. On one hand, my cultural background has helped me connect with locals on a deeper level, as there is a shared sense of heritage and understanding. On the other hand, my professional identity sometimes clashes with local business practices and communication styles, requiring me to adapt and find a balance between the two.

Lessons Learned

From these experiences, I have learned the importance of adaptability and open-mindedness. Embracing the differences rather than resisting them has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. I have also learned to appreciate the richness of Vietnamese culture and how it shapes people's perspectives and behaviors. 

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Experience with Culture Shift

Yes, I have experienced a culture shift. One notable instance was during a team meeting at The Hive, where the communication style was more indirect than I was accustomed to. Initially, I felt confused and frustrated, as I misinterpreted the lack of direct feedback as disinterest. However, upon reflection and discussions with colleagues, I realized that indirect communication is a cultural norm aimed at maintaining harmony and respect. To cope with this, I adapted my expectations and communication style, becoming more attuned to non-verbal cues and the subtleties of indirect feedback. I also sought guidance from colleagues who were more familiar with the local culture, which helped me navigate these situations more effectively.

Conclusion

In summary, my time abroad in Vietnam has been a transformative experience. It has challenged me to adapt, learn, and grow in ways I never anticipated. The hardest part has been navigating the cultural and professional differences, but these challenges have also been the most rewarding. By embracing the culture shift and reevaluating my beliefs, I have gained a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.

Pierre Tran, Diverse Duck Ambassador

GlobalWorks Internship in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Summer 2024