Ever since the video for TOPS was first unveiled at our Freshmen Orientation Camp, I have been eagerly looking forward to what is to come. I have never visited Vietnam before and I am thrilled at the opportunity to visit this beautiful country with my fellow USP friends, seniors, and mentors. There is no doubt that this trip is going to be an enjoyable and fruitful experience, and I am determined to make the most out of it.

Firstly, I believe that TOPS can definitely shape me to be a more well-rounded NTU USP scholar. SP0007 indeed equips us with essential 21st century knowledge and skillsets, such as critical and creative thinking skills, which we will get to hone through our research and media presentation.

Secondly, I appreciate the fact that every group has a good mix of individuals from different faculties, each bringing with them a unique talent to contribute to the group. This provides an excellent avenue for us to learn from each other and I hope to contribute meaningfully and positively to my group.

Lastly, by immersing ourselves in a new culture, we will learn to be more self-aware about our responsibilities as global citizens. Being a conscious and responsible global citizen entails respect and appreciation for different cultures and environments. I believe that this trip to Hanoi and Sapa will allow us to forge meaningful intercultural relationships, and I am excited for the interaction with our local guides and buddies. I am particularly looking forward to the homestay, which is sure to deliver an authentic and invaluable cultural experience.

On this note, I believe that this intercultural exchange will be able to enhance my college education. Such international exposure allows us to hone our cultural sensitivities through the appreciation of diversity and the development of cross-cultural friendships. As college students, it is imperative that we see the world from different perspectives, forge meaningful new connections, and develop greater self-awareness as an individual in an extremely large and interconnected world. This will also better prepare us for overseas exchange programmes and in general, any form of global exposure.

At a personal level, I am excited by what I can see, learn and experience in my one week in Vietnam. I am looking forward to the sight-seeing, food, and cultural immersion. I hope to be able to forge closer bonds within the USP community, as well as with the locals whom we’ll be engaging with. Of course, I also hope to gain a deeper understanding on youth mobilisation in Vietnam, so that my team and I will be able to share valuable insights with everyone when we present our final report and project.

As Mary Anne Radmacher has said, “I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world”. I sincerely hope that this trip will be an enjoyable and rewarding journey for all of us!