Imagine yourself walking though the busy streets of Hanoi, market stalls chocked-full of the freshest ingredients that would cost a fortune at the nearest Whole Foods. It is easy to forget the stress and worries left behind in the western world as you interact with warm people in a beautiful environment.
A chance to experience the streets of Vietnam and even taste a genuine beef pho can be made possible this summer as De Anza College’s Vietnamese Student Association will be sponsoring their annual Vietnam Study Abroad program.
The typical price for a flight, hotel and car rental package can cost from $4000 to $6000 on expedia.com. All of this is included in the package the VSA offers with the addition of guided tours, meals, and nine units for only $3750.
If this figure still seems discouraging, financial assistance and a limited number of scholarships are available at the financial aid office on campus. Aside from the money it takes to get there, students need about $200 in pocket money to enjoy the vibrant nightlife or buy souvenirs.
A week before the trip, attending students meet each other and prepare for the trip ahead. They do not need to worry about a language barrier, since a faculty or native speaking student will be able
to translate.
“The most important phrase you can learn is ‘Can you help me cross the street?'” said Maggie Rich, an attendee of the 2011 session.
“Vietnam is a place where dreams you didn’t even know you had will come true,” said Benjamine Smith, also an attendee of the 2011 trip.
“Anything you want to do, you go a head and do it. Without having a license or anything, I rode a motorcycle around Hanoi.”
The trip takes students from North Vietnam to South Vietnam, stopping at the remains of an ancient Champa civilization, various provinces with their unique foods and styles, the tunnels of Cu Chi, and the Mekong Floating Market students will dodge scooters and bicycles in the humid heat to get from one place to the next.
This  excursion is an example of President Brian Murphy’s philosophy that students at community colleges should be provided with the same broadening opportunities that are provided at UCs and CSUs, including chances to study in other countries.
Like most classes, De Anza College requires reading based on the country, and a final paper, but Rich suggests reading the books ahead of time in order to get the maximum amount of time to immerse yourself in the trip. And yes, there is a final paper, but it is not due until August, two weeks after the trip has ended.