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#From the fear of challenges to confidence in adapting. #Confidence in the value and career path of being a nurse. #Special moments shared with the people of Ho Chi Minh.
Hello! I am a student studying nursing, and I wanted to experience different cultures and people to broaden my view. I participated in a 4-week overseas medical volunteering project in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam to use my major for meaningful activities. Since I am majoring in nursing, I have a lot of interest in volunteering related to healthcare. It was attractive that I could help local residents while also improving my skills rather than just having a simple trip.
I also wanted to grow as a person in a new environment, which is why I chose this project. My goal was to challenge myself in a new environment and expand my limits. I wanted to gain experiences that would genuinely help people rather than just studying my major, and I wanted to communicate with various people and grow with a broader perspective.
At first, I was most worried about living in an unfamiliar environment for 4 weeks. I felt the burden of language and cultural differences, as well as health care. However, I was able to reduce my worries by researching local culture and living conditions and preparing necessary medicines and supplies before leaving. The guidance from the staff was so organized that I could depart with peace of mind.
In the mornings, we prepared and had breakfast with coupons. The diverse menu was nice, and we moved with other volunteers to the hospital for medical volunteering activities. I checked the health status of local residents and assisted medical staff, and after the activities, we had time to clean up and give feedback. The systematic organization of the project helped participants understand their roles and engage in the activities.
The environment was stable, allowing us to focus on our lives and volunteering. I also met various participants with different majors and backgrounds. Sharing our goals and experiences motivated us, and the time spent working together was meaningful. Connections with local residents and medical staff became unforgettable.
The best part was seeing local residents genuinely grateful for even the small help I offered. Their bright smiles of gratitude for small acts will stay with me. In an environment where medical services were insufficient, I felt the importance of health care, and I deeply reflected on the value of being a nurse. I also realized that volunteering is a process of helping one another to learn and grow together.
During my free time, I experienced local culture and enriched my time. I recommend visiting local markets, cultural heritage sites, and natural landmarks during weekends or free time. Instead of just tourist spots, visiting places where locals often go helps understand the culture on a deeper level. Using a sleeper bus to visit nearby areas allows for making more memories!
This project changed my life so much that I would give it 10 points. Living in a new environment boosted my confidence, and I gained a greater sense of responsibility for my major and confidence in my career path. My fears of not adapting due to my limited English completely changed, and my confidence grew.
Before participating, I was very afraid of new challenges, but after participating, I gained the confidence to adapt and solve problems in unfamiliar environments and began to see people and society from a broader perspective.
For those who will participate in the future, don't worry if you are not perfectly prepared. If you have an open mind and a proactive attitude, you will have plenty of opportunities to learn and grow there. Reflecting on the meaning of volunteering will make your experience even more valuable.
I want to thank the project staff who kindly guided me through the preparation process up until departing. Thanks to them, I could prepare for my first overseas medical volunteer experience without worry. The help from trinhh, who could speak Korean, was invaluable during our activities. I sincerely thank everyone behind the scenes who helped participants have great experiences.
Capturing the growth journeys
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