With respect to the NTU USP mission statement, I feel that this TOPs trip can help me develop as an NTU USP scholar by improving my cultural competency, specifically with regards to Vietnamese cultural. This TOPs trip provides me the unique experience of data collection in a foreign country, something which I have never done before. It gives me the opportunity to immerse myself in both urban and rural Vietnamese societies, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of their cultural. Hence, this trip is highly congruent with regards to the NTU USP mission statement, and will give me knowledge for the 21st Century as well as encourage proactive global citizenship.

This intercultural exchange will enhance my college education as it provides me with the unique opportunity of data collection in a foreign country, something I will not get to do in NTU outside of USP. Firstly, I have learnt about the different aspects of research, from developing a research problem to various methods of data collection. These research skills, though not directly related to my course of study, will be useful to me if I choose to focus on research in the future. Furthermore, this intercultural exchange will give me a greater understanding of Vietnamese culture, learning more of their social norms and values.

At a personal level, I hope to be able to balance the academic and leisure aspects of this trip, and get the most out of these 7 days in Vietnam. I want to enjoy the first-hand experience of interacting with the local Vietnamese, as well as indulge in traditional Vietnamese delicacies such as Pho and Banh mi.

Yong Yu Wen