For Marc-Antoine and Martin, two French students from the École Militaire de Saint-Cyr, their three-month stay at the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) was more than an internship – it was an adventure that combined academic growth with cultural discovery. From navigating Hanoi’s bustling streets to collaborating on innovative projects, their time in Vietnam was a journey of personal and professional transformation.
Discovering Vietnam: A Blend of Academics and Culture
When Marc-Antoine and Martin decided to travel halfway across the globe to Vietnam, they were motivated by more than just academics. Both electronics engineering students from the prestigious École Militaire de Saint-Cyr, they saw the trip as an opportunity to immerse themselves in a culture different from their own.
“To be able to go so far from home and discover a country with such a different culture was a golden opportunity I couldn’t refuse,” Martin shared. Similarly, Marc-Antoine explained, “I chose Vietnam for its unique culture. USTH attracted me because of its innovative approach to scientific research and its collaborations with local initiatives such as the Fablab.”
During their three months at USTH, they worked on impactful projects. Marc-Antoine and Martin conducted research on a flood detection system, collaborating with USTH students within the Fablab to develop a technological solution aimed at mitigating the impacts of floods in vulnerable areas of Vietnam. Their efforts earned them and their team second place at the Asia-Pacific Smart Campus Competition 2024. “Winning second place was an incredible experience,” Martin said. “It was wonderful to see our hard work recognized.”
Adapting to a new research environment presented its challenges. The equipment at the USTH Fablab wasn’t what they were accustomed to, but they quickly learned to innovate and problem-solve with their Vietnamese peers. “It wasn’t just about the tools,” Martin explained. “It was about how we worked together to overcome challenges and find solutions.”
Immersing in Vietnam: Adventures Beyond the Lab
Beyond their work at USTH, Marc-Antoine and Martin embraced every opportunity to experience Vietnam’s rich culture and daily life. Hanoi, with its bustling streets, historic charm, and vibrant energy, became the center of their adventures. “I was struck by the energy of Hanoi, especially the traffic,” Martin recalled. “At first, it was overwhelming, but I got used to it and even started to enjoy the rhythm of the city.”
Marc-Antoine, too, fell in love with the dynamic atmosphere of the Vietnamese capital. “Hanoi is a mix of old-world traditions and modern energy,” he said. “I particularly enjoyed visiting the local markets, sampling Vietnamese cuisine, and finding moments of calm at Hoàn Kiếm Lake.”
Of course, life in Vietnam wasn’t without its challenges. The tropical climate required an adjustment for Marc-Antoine. “The heat and humidity were difficult to manage at times, but I learned to plan my activities during the cooler parts of the day,” he shared. For Martin, the language barrier was a hurdle, but he soon found ways to navigate it. “With translation tools and the kindness of the locals, I managed just fine,” he said.
Weekends provided them a chance to travel and explore the beauty of Vietnamese landscapes. Marc-Antoine visited Halong Bay, Sapa, and Ninh Binh, among other places, each offering its own unique charm. “Exploring Tam Coc by boat in Ninh Binh was one of my favorite experiences,” he said. “The scenery was so serene, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s natural wonders.”
Martin also traveled extensively, with highlights including visits to Sapa, Halong Bay, and Cao Bằng. “Every destination revealed something different about Vietnam, from its breathtaking landscapes to its warm and welcoming people,” he said.
Amid their explorations, Martin and Marc-Antoine built meaningful relationships that enriched their stay. One of Martin’s favorite memories came from an unexpected friendship. “I went boxing twice a week,” he shared. “After training, I would have dinner with my coach and his friend. That’s how we became friends.” For Marc-Antoine, it was the kindness and genuine warmth of the Vietnamese people, both in Hanoi and during his travels, that left a lasting impression.
After 3 months in Vietnam, their internship came to an end. As Marc-Antoine and Martin returned to France, they would carry with them unforgettable memories and valuable lessons. Their journey at USTH is not just about achieving academic goals – it is about growing as individuals and forging connections across borders.
