Carolina Montané Limonta, from Havana, Cuba, is currently enrolled in the Accounting, Analysis and Auditing programme at VNU-IS (International School – Vietnam National University, Hanoi).
She arrived in Vietnam in September with a clear goal: to pursue her chosen major in an international learning environment, strengthen her English proficiency, and adapt to a new academic and cultural setting.
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Carolina’s journey reflects the experience of many international students at VNU-IS, where academic training is supported by a welcoming learning community and student services that help learners settle in and grow with confidence.
Carolina identifies the language barrier as her first major culture shock. As a native Spanish speaker, she found the initial weeks challenging, particularly when navigating daily communication and academic life in a different language environment.
Beyond language, the emotional challenge of being far from home proved even more significant. Leaving behind her mother, younger sister, pets, friends, and familiar routines was not easy. During this transition, Carolina credits her father as her strongest source of support, consistently encouraging her and helping her remain resilient as she adjusted to life in Vietnam.
She also observed that cross-cultural interactions can take time. Carolina felt that some local students may initially hesitate to start conversations with international students. However, once connections were formed, she developed meaningful friendships that helped her feel welcomed and less isolated.
Beginning university in a new country required Carolina to adapt quickly. She describes her first week as “very tough,” as she learned new routines and stepped outside her comfort zone. What made the transition smoother, she explains, was the strong support from lecturers, university staff, and classmates.
Carolina expresses her appreciation for faculty members and support staff, including Ms. Loan and Ms. Aila Bach, as well as Vietnamese peers who assisted her with practical matters such as timetables and administrative procedures. Whenever she sought support, Carolina says she was provided with clear explanations and practical solutions.
A key milestone in her adjustment was an intensive English course offered by VNU-IS during her initial period of study. After nearly two months of structured learning, she adapted more comfortably to university life and observed significant improvement in her English proficiency. For Carolina, the most meaningful change has been increased self-confidence. Over time, she became more willing to speak up in English, even when worried about making mistakes. She believes that consistent practice—and the courage to try, is essential for real progress.
Today, she sees VNU-IS as more than a place to earn a degree. It is where she is building strong academic foundations, forming meaningful friendships, and developing personal independence alongside her studies. Her experience reflects the international character of VNU-IS, where students from diverse backgrounds are supported in pursuing their ambitions and preparing for global career pathways.
