Here Goes

This summer, I spent 4 weeks in Vietnam where I profoundly changed the person I am today. It all began in the LAX airport where I was introduced to 15 teens from all across the country. It wasn't easy opening up about myself with people I had never met before; fortunately, once we landed in Ho Chi Minh City, our jet lag and exquisite new taste for food was enough for us to truly connect as a group over the next few days. By talking about our diverse backgrounds, I learned each other’s mannerisms and predispositions, and created lasting friendships that I shall forever cherish. Venturing into the exotic buzz of Ho Chi Minh traffic, bargaining in the night markets, and playing sports with locals I learned to resist hesitation and adapt independently. I saw myself evolve as a more culturally aware person, and become intrinsically adventurous especially with the support from those around me. I saw the mix of Asian architecture blended with French remnants that took years to build at the Reunification palace and Saigon Opera house as well as the ridiculous circumstances the government took to preserve and rebuild its ecosystem during times of war. I learned how amazing Vietnam is, how Vietnam has shaped the world, and how it has shaped me. I learned that Vietnam will always be apart of me and my outlook on life. I was beyond blessed to have the opportunity to find myself in Vietnam’s enchanted environment, and I could not pick anyone better to share my experiences with.