English Language Studies Students’ Academic Engagement at UKM, the National University of Malaysia

Taking another step in their global learning journey, English Language Studies students at Hoa Sen University participated in an academic exchange program at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), the National University of Malaysia. Through this experience, students immersed themselves in a multicultural academic environment, enhanced their international communication skills, and connected with peers and faculty members from diverse cultural backgrounds.

From Singapore to Malaysia: Extending the Learning Journey Beyond the Classroom

Recently, following their participation in an international conference in Singapore, English Language Studies students at Hoa Sen University (HSU) continued their global learning journey through an academic exchange program at the Faculty of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), the National University of Malaysia.
Accompanied by Mr. Nguyen Minh Tri, MA, HSU Director of the English Language Studies Program, along with two students from the Faculty of Languages and Psychology, Ms. Le Ha Minh Anh and Ms. Phan Thi Anh Thu, participated in academic activities at UKM, engaging with a multicultural learning environment and broadening their international perspectives.

During their time at UKM, HSU students engaged with Malaysian lecturers and peers, immersing themselves in a multicultural academic environment that expanded their understanding of education, language, and cultural diversity in the region.

Moreover, the exchange program featured a specialized session delivered by Mr. Nguyen Minh Tri on Intercultural Communication, where students, trainees, and researchers at UKM explored perspectives on communication across cultures. The session emphasized the growing importance of intercultural communication skills, equipping learners with the ability to navigate diverse cultural contexts as they pursue academic and professional opportunities in an increasingly globalized world.

Beyond academic activities, the HSU delegation also introduced Malaysian friends to typical Vietnamese cuisine. Through stories of food, culture, and people, students found another meaningful way to connect with international peers and share the image of Viet Nam with the global community.

Strengthening Academic Connections and Expanding Student Opportunities

In addition to academic exchanges, the program also created a platform for HSU representatives and leaders of the UKM Faculty of Education to discuss future collaboration directions, from student exchange initiatives and academic activities to joint research projects.

These connections serve as a foundation for expanding international learning opportunities, fostering research collaboration, and creating meaningful experiences for students from both universities.

For English Language Studies students at HSU, international academic experiences transform language learning into meaningful real-world practice. Through discussions and collaborations with international peers, they not only enhance their language skills but also cultivate broader perspectives and greater confidence in connecting with the global community.

Furthermore, the learning journey across Singapore and Malaysia extends beyond an academic exchange experience. By engaging directly with international learning environments and multicultural communities, they gain new perspectives, enhance their adaptability, and take meaningful steps toward becoming global citizens.

At the same time, each HSU student becomes a cultural ambassador, sharing Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and stories of Viet Nam with international friends. From the HSU campus to academic communities in Singapore and Malaysia, this journey enables English Language Studies students to learn through real experiences, grow through global connections, and take confident steps toward international integration.