After a year’s worth of planning, this past winter break six students traveled to Vietnam. The trip was planned by Professor Matthew Masur who worked with CET, Sarah Goolksian, and a travel agent. CET is an educational tour company that helped Professor Masur, plan the itinerary.

During the two week stay in Vietnam, the students visited Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam, the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum in Hanoi, the Cu Chi tunnels outside of Ho Chi Minh City and lastly the Mekong Delta. While in Ho Chi Minh City the group went to, the Ben Thanh Market, and the War Remnants Museum. They heard a lecture given by a Vietnamese professor on a brief history of Vietnam.

Before the trip took place, the students participating in the trip read some academic articles relating to the sites they would be seeing. There were articles on Ha Long Bay, the War Remnants Museum, and an article on a key battle that took place in Vietnam. The students also did some of their own research for what to see and do when they were not on a scheduled visit.

On the trip they stayed in a house with Vietnamese roommates, and on the Mekong Delta they stayed in a home stay.

The trip to Vietnam took place this year because Professor Masur alternates between trips to Vietnam and China. The trip to China is run by Professor Perrone, and will take place next winter break.

Student Ahmed Saeed, who went on the trip, expressed a difference in the level of effort the Vietnamese put into their appearance. He said observing the people in Hanoi was his favorite part because of how well put together everyone looked.

As well as having fun on the trip the students also learned a great deal. Anyone who is interested in this trip is encouraged to look into, and consider the trip to China next year.