Hoang Minh Chi, a student majoring in Data Science at the University of Science and Technology Hanoi (USTH), has successfully achieved a “ticket” for the student exchange program between USTH and EPF Engineering School (France). Currently, Minh Chí is studying Data Engineering at Montpellier campus of EPF. Let’s explore his experiences living and studying in the hexagonal country!
Dedicated support from USTH
Preparing for studying abroad is a process that requires significant efforts, especially in terms of documentation. Moreover, Montpellier ranks among the top 2 student cities in France, where 1/4 of the population are students. Consequently, finding accommodation is one of the many “headaches” faced by many international students. However, thanks to the support from USTH, particularly from the International Cooperation Office staffs, the acceptance rate for students in the exchange program is very highly recorded. Minh Chi personally expresses his gratitude: “I am very thankful to all the staffs of the International Cooperation Office for helping me a lot in the application and especially in finding accommodation in Montpellier, as it is quite challenging.”
Regarding study and living costs, Minh Chi recalls: “My study costs in Montpellier are a bit higher than it in Vietnam, mainly due to the high housing prices. However, living expenses are quite reasonable because public transportation is free, and self-cooking helps me save significantly.” Notably, thanks to the partnership between USTH and EPF, Chi mentions that USTH students participating in the exchange program profit many privileges, such as being exempt from EPF’s tuition fees, which are typically €10,000 per year.
Valuable companionship in a foreign country
Like other exchange students, Minh Chi initially felt overwhelmed when starting his new life abroad. The language barrier posed many difficulties in communication. Although his good command of English helped him keep up with his studies, living and studying in France requires students to have enough language knowledge for daily life. Minh Chi recounts: “When I first arrived in Montpellier, I encountered some difficulties in opening a bank account and buying a SIM card. My limited French made the paperwork more complicated.”
Despite the language barrier, Chi was fortunate to have kind foreign friends. “My classmates are very friendly and enthusiastic, always willing to help me both in my studies and daily life. The teachers are also very dedicated, frequently show their warm-hearted attitude. For me, making friends and integrating with my classmates has helped me adapt more quickly to my new life. They not only share with me about French culture but also assist me significantly in completing paperwork, making everything smoother.”
Currently, according to the cooperation agreement between USTH and EPF, some courses will be credited to similar courses in the Master’s system at the partner school. This requires exchange students to continuously strive and possess good self-study skills. Chí shares: “The study program is quite intensive, especially since I am enrolled in the Master 2. Instead of taking written exams for midterms or finals, we have to complete many major assignments.”
Memorable Moments
Montpellier is a vibrant, youthful city, which means there are numerous exciting events. Minh Chi recalls: “In Montpellier, students have the opportunity to participate in many programs, events, and receive special offers.” For Chi, experiencing an live opera performance left a strong impression in him: “The most memorable event for me was the first time I enjoyed a free live opera performance at the Montpellier Occitanie National Opera. It was even more special because all students and pupils could attend for free. That was a memory I will never forget.”
The student exchange program provides excellent opportunities for students to study in an international environment while experiencing fascinating cultures. Studying abroad also means departing from familiar comforts and venturing out of one’s comfort zone to confront new experiences. From his experiences, Minh Chi encourages students planning to participate in future international exchange programs: “Make every opportunity to explore cultures, learn from international friends, and always stay open to adapt quickly!”
