Feedback about the Training Trip for Students in Lam Dong

Author: Huong Giang, Psychology student at Hoa Sen University

On July 8, 2023, the Psychology student group of Hoa Sen University under the guidance of the Director of the Research Institute – Ms. Nguyen Thi Loan, had the opportunity to visit and organize activities. Summer camp 2023 for poor students from areas of Lam Dong province: Da Tong, Da Te, Da Ton, Da Oai, Dong Nai Thuong, Di Linh, Bao Loc, Don Duong, and Da Lat. The children belong to the following ethnic groups: Tay, Nung, Chau Ma, Churu, K’Ho, Bana, Chill, S’Tieng, Kinh.

During this trip, Hoa Sen students brought psychology to school by organizing different activities. Depending on the psychological characteristics of each grade level, the student group has prepared and planned appropriate activities. Specifically, for grades 6 – 7, the cheerleaders organize activities to exchange connections and think about their dreams, through creating stories, drawing pictures, and talking about their dreams. thoughts that I have. Grades 8-9 can participate in activities that help improve self-understanding, self-image awareness, and a better understanding of the professional world, through imagining the future and designing a picture of life, with compassion to realize your plans. Students from grades 10 to University engage in career-oriented activities and listen to sharing about necessary life skills.

At the end of the program, Hoa Sen students had a few thoughts as follows:

• Duyen (K20 student, Psychology) shared: “After this trip, what I feel the most is the connection of everyone.” 
• Ngan Pham (K20 student, Psychology) shared her surprise at the children’s reactions, as well as gratitude for the cooperation that everyone gave each other: “I had the opportunity to coordinate the program.” “Leaf” program with students in grades 6-7. At first, it was a bit difficult because this was my first time in such a role. However, after the end of the program, I heard the Sisters say “The children are usually timid and refuse to talk to strangers, but today they were willing to talk and were very active. It’s thanks to you guys”, at that time I felt pleased when the group’s efforts were rewarded like that.” 
• As for Ngan Nhim (K20 student, Psychology), learning through experience is a very valuable thing: “Actually, up to now, I have not been interested in children, nor have I I thought I would lead summer activities for nearly 100 students. Therefore, those three hours of activity were both an experience and a challenge for me. At the end of the program, many thoughts appeared in my mind. This trip is an experience, and learning through experience is very valuable. Seeing the children happy makes me happy too!”

Through this trip, psychology students are exposed to reality, realize the plans they have built, learn more ways to handle situations when problems occur, and practice skills. Observe and communicate, be patient when children do not cooperate, and understand the difficulties behind their shyness. The program ended successfully and brought back to everyone the best memories of this summer.