Keuka College is once again hosting a cohort of students from partner institution Vietnam National University–International School this semester as part of an ongoing exchange program.
The 24 students are pursuing dual degrees in Business Management through a combination of co-taught courses at VNU-IS’s campus in Hanoi and one semester of study at the home campus in Keuka Park.
"I came here to build my future,” said junior Darren Hoang. “And I’ve found a home I never want to leave.”
Several VNU-IS students spent their spring break exploring Manhattan
This is one of Keuka College’s three active transpacific programs, along with joint-degree options at VNU-IS and the University of Economics and Finance in Ho Chi Minh City. A pioneer in global learning, Keuka College has been forging partnerships in Southeast Asia for more than 60 years and launched its first international degree in 2002. Today, some 500 Vietnamese students are part of the KC family.
Along with a full course load – including subjects like Business Law, International Business, and Public Speaking – this cohort is taking full advantage of opportunities for cross-cultural understanding. They have joined in on various club activities and sightseeing trips around New York state, and they hit the road to cheer on the Men’s Basketball team as it surged to nationals.
Earlier this spring, these students invited new friends to take part in a Lunar New Year (Tết) celebration, and plans for a Taste of Vietnam event are currently taking shape.
In December, Associate Director of International Enrollment Courtney Elias led an interactive orientation session at VNU-IS’s Hanoi campus for students spending their spring semester at Keuka Park.
In a new initiative, four U.S. students have been earning Field Period® internship credit as Vietnam Program Student Mentors, working with College’s Office of Community & Belonging to help their peers adapt to campus life 8,000 miles from home.
“My role is to make sure these transitions are as smooth as possible, whether they’re looking to get into intramural volleyball or just finding somewhere in town to shop for clothes,” said mentor Kamille Wooden, a senior Psychology major. “It’s a great experience that directly connects to my goal of becoming a school counselor.”
For many of the visiting students, that support has helped turn the struggles of studying abroad into opportunities for growth and connection.
“The cultural and language differences were a challenge at first,” said junior Phuong Do. “But the campus is really welcoming and supportive. I appreciate how the professors, students, and staff genuinely care about us and make us feel included.”
That spirit of discovery and community is exactly what program leaders hope to inspire through the exchange program.
“It’s an amazing chance for KC Wolves from both continents to develop the knowledge, perspective, and leadership skills essential to lead as global citizens,” said Courtney Elias, Associate Director of International Enrollment, who traveled to Hanoi last term to meet with the students. “Choosing to study abroad – or just to actively engage with a new culture or language – demonstrates initiative and courage.”
“This kind of experiential learning is a vital element of our overseas partnerships, which we are looking forward to growing in the years to come.”
For more information about Keuka College’s international partnerships, contact [email protected].
