As internationalization continues to reshape the landscape of higher education, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education (HCMUTE) is strengthening its position as a hub for global academic exchange. This feature showcases the six-month study experience of Mattias Hallikainen and Ville Leinonen, two Construction and Civil Engineering students from Häme University of Applied Sciences in Finland, who have been awarded the Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarship (Erasmus+ K131 Funding). Their reflections provide valuable insights into HCMUTE’s ability to deliver impactful and enriching international learning experiences. Associate Professor Dr. Hoang An Quoc serves as the coordinator of this Erasmus+ mobility program at HCMUTE, ensuring smooth academic and cultural integration for international students like Mattias and Ville.

Ville Leinonen at HCMUTE campus

 
Matias Hallikainen at HCMUTE campus

First Impressions: A Campus That Captivates

Both Mattias and Ville were drawn to Asia early in their studies, and when deciding on an exchange destination, Vietnam emerged as a vibrant and compelling choice. Upon arrival at HCMUTE, their initial impression was clear: "Big place, a lot of buildings, lots of students"  Mattias recalled. Ville added, “The area that the school has is pretty huge. It is a beautiful place - lots of trees and flowers in the front yard.”

This immediate reaction underscores HCMUTE’s commitment to creating a lush, welcoming environment. The green landscaping and open spaces not only impressed them visually but also contributed to a sense of peace and vitality amidst urban Ho Chi Minh City. This kind of campus atmosphere leaves a strong first impression on newcomers, fostering a sense of belonging from the very start.

Academic Environment: Structure, Discipline, and Diversity

One of the highlights of Mattias and Ville’s experience was the academic structure at HCMUTE, which challenged their expectations and offered new perspectives. Coming from a civil engineering background, they found themselves engaged in courses related to industrial management - a departure from their technical comfort zone. “All the subjects we took here were new to us... mostly marketing related ” Mattias explained. “So, it was  a new experience for us.”

This academic shift broadened their intellectual horizons, preparing them for interdisciplinary collaboration in their future careers. Ville emphasized the professionalism of group work in Vietnam: “The meetings were very punctual. Everything we needed to do was precisely on time.” Their exposure to such structured collaboration is a testament to the high academic standards upheld by HCMUTE faculty and students alike.

Moreover, they found HCMUTE students to be “humble, kind, and always willing to help” which enriched their classroom experiences. The smooth communication and surprisingly strong English proficiency among peers further broke down language barriers, enabling deep learning and mutual understanding.

Cross-Cultural Connections: Shared Humanity Amid Differences

Living and learning in a new culture often brings challenges, but for Mattias and Ville, it opened the door to empathy and cross-cultural appreciation. They noted how closely Vietnamese and Finnish mindsets aligned when it came to teamwork, suggesting that cultural boundaries often blur in the face of shared values.

From humorous classroom moments to unexpected adventures navigating Ho Chi Minh City traffic “Traffic was the first thing that we noticed” they joked-these young Finns embraced Vietnamese culture with curiosity and respect. They didn’t just visit Vietnam; they lived it. From strolling through flower-filled streets during Tet to joining local fans in the joyful celebrations of a football victory over Thailand, they witnessed the pulse of the Vietnamese spirit firsthand.

Campus Life and Institutional Support: Smooth, Supportive, and Satisfying

Mattias and Ville’s experience was not just shaped by classrooms or group work - it was deeply enhanced by the strong institutional support they received at HCMUTE. “When we faced small issues, we just texted or called the authorities, and they helped us a lot” Ville remarked. “Basically, we had no issues at all.”

Such seamless coordination, particularly in handling logistics like visas and accommodations, underscores HCMUTE’s dedication to providing comprehensive care for its international students. In an era where universities compete for global talent, this level of support sets HCMUTE apart. The Office of International Affairs, student volunteers, and faculty involvement created a supportive environment that allowed students to focus on exploration and education without bureaucratic stress.
 
 
 Personal Growth and Global Citizenship: Beyond the Textbook

Studying abroad is as much about personal transformation as it is about academic enrichment. For Mattias and Ville, this exchange experience helped reshape their identity as future professionals and global citizens. “It really helps that the people who are hiring can see that you have insights into another culture” Ville noted. Mattias echoed this sentiment: “It opens your mind because you can see another culture as well.”

Their exposure to diverse perspectives, unfamiliar subjects, and a dynamic cultural landscape helped them evolve in ways no textbook could. As Mattias put it “We learn to adapt and learn new things” 
 
 
Why HCMUTE Deserves the Global Spotlight

The experiences of Mattias Hallikainen and Ville Leinonen illustrate the kind of transformational learning that HCMUTE fosters - not only through rigorous academics and organized support, but through meaningful  human connections, cultural immersion, and a value-driven environment it provides.

For universities looking to send students abroad, for students searching for an unforgettable journey, and for international partners evaluating where to invest - HCMUTE emerges as a top-tier choice. As these two Finnish students prepare to return home with laughter, learning, and lifelong memories, one thing is clear: HCMUTE doesn’t just educate. It inspires.

“If you're thinking about going  on exchange studies in another country” Ville advises “I say you should go there”

If you're looking for an exchange experience that does more than take you to a new place - one that opens your mind, broadens your horizons, and transforms your future - HCMUTE is where that journey begins. The inspiring stories of students like Mattias and Ville highlight the rich academic, cultural, and personal growth opportunities that await here. We hope their experience will encourage more students in the Erasmus+ Mobility program to choose HCMUTE - where learning goes beyond the classroom, and every moment brings you closer to becoming a true global citizen.