Raising a passion for Technology and Science, Nguyen Van Phu has realized his dream while studying in the exchange program for Information Engineering and Computer Science at the National Institute of Applied Sciences (France). Let’s chat with this data science student to know more about his adventure in the southwestern region of France!
Was the preparation for studying abroad a challenge for you? What do you think about the support from USTH?
For me, I started preparing mentally by researching the exchange program three months before receiving information from my teachers. In addition to proactively gathering information, I also received enthusiastic support from my teachers and especially from the International Cooperation Office, which helped with all related paperwork. I found the process much easier thanks to the dedicated assistance from everyone.
Could you share about the tuition costs at the partner university in Europe? Is the tuition higher in Italy?
At INSA Toulouse, a branch of the National Institute of Applied Sciences in France, which specializes in training engineers in applied sciences and engineering, the tuition fees are relatively high, around €3,000 per semester. Considering these tuition costs, not including living expenses, I find it quite significant compared to that in Vietnam. However, as a USTH student, I don’t have to worry about these tuition fees due to the privileges offered by the student exchange program between USTH and INSA Toulouse.
During your studies at the partner university, have you ever encounted any difficulties (such as language, learning methods, study environment, etc.)? Can you share your tips for quickly adapting to studying and daily life in Italy?
I found that self-study is very important and highly valued in higher education. Throughout my studies, I primarily used French, and since about 50% of the learning materials are in French, the language barrier posed some challenges. However, the teachers at INSA Toulouse were very supportive and provided similar learning materials in English, which helped me catch up with the lecture easier. The school offers a green environment, numerous lively student activities, and modern facilities. Additionally, they care about students’ mental well-being.
I adapted quite quickly because I was mentally prepared and viewed the unfamiliar experiences as new opportunities rather than obstacles.
How do you feel about the exchange program at the partner universities? Is the program overwhelming?
I find that the curriculum here has some disparities since I enrolled in the second year of the Master’s program. Due to these differences, I had to put in a lot of effort to adapt to the new environment and the intensive study schedule. This was a significant challenge that I aimed to overcome.
An essential part of studying abroad is adapting to a completely new lifestyle. Can you share your memorable cultural experiences?
Adapting to a completely new lifestyle is essential when studying abroad. One of my memorable cultural experiences was discovering the different uses of language across regions and their unique ways of greeting. For example, just as we refer to “lợn” as “heo” in the South of Vietnam, in France, regions of French that lied next to Spain call “pain au chocolat” (chocolate bread) as “chocolatine”. This linguistic diversity surprised me, as each region has a rich and distinct color. Similarly, the way people greet each other with cheek kisses varies from one region to another.
During the 5-month exchange program, I not only ensured my studies at the partner school but also took the opportunity to participate in various innovation competitions in the AI field at USTH, winning several major awards. Notably, I reached the Top 3 Finalist in the INNO-INSPIRATION USTH 2024 twice, as well as being a Top 10 Finalist in the Hub Challenge 2024 and a Top 5 Finalist in the Idea Category of the Green Industrial AI Challenge 2024. I played a key role in these projects, proposing and implementing ideas, and I was also responsible for pitching and conveying our message to the judges during the competitions.
One of my most memorable experiences was waking up at 2 AM to prepare for pitching and presenting ideas for competitions taking place 10,000 km away, despite the 6-hour time difference between Vietnam and France. Additionally, I continuously sought to enhance my knowledge by taking and obtaining certificates for several courses to refine my professional skills.
Aside from studying, I enjoy going to the supermarket to buy ingredients for cooking at home. My host is Vietnamese, so we often spend time together cooking, especially traditional dishes from our homeland. During my free time, I also love to relax and explore the city. On the full moon day, I even rode my bike for 20 km to visit a local temple.
What advice do you have for upcoming exchange students?
I recommend approaching this experience with an open mind and strong determination!
Thank you! I hope you will stay optimism and achieve success on your academic journey!
