What motivated you to take part in the Experience Frankfurt study trip and how long will you stay in Frankfurt?

Đức: I was motivated to join because it’s a unique opportunity to immerse myself in a new cultural and academic environment while advancing my research. I’ll be staying in Frankfurt for six months to work on my thesis, which I believe will benefit greatly from the resources, expertise, and international perspectives available here. After completing my thesis, I plan to return to my home country to prepare for my next adventure, carrying forward the knowledge and experiences I gained.

Mai: I had an opportunity to do an exchange semester in Germany when I was in the fourth semester of my bachelor's program, but at that time, due to COVID-19, my parents were reluctant to let me go; therefore, I gave up that chance. Now, in my master's, I have had this chance again; hence, I wanted to take it. I want to experience more to broaden my mind, and I want to have more stories to tell when I talk with my friends. I don't want to stay in my parents' cocoon anymore. I want to leave my comfort zone and see what I can do. Of course, I want to get to know a new culture, the rhythm in Germany, and whether it is suitable for me to stay longer in the future. In short, the experience is the most important reason I want to participate in the study trip, and I realized it is truly valuable. 

Tú: Being in Europe has always been my biggest motivation. Although I once had an exchange semester in Würzburg during my bachelor's, I really miss the good atmosphere and advanced transportation the most. Besides, I have my wonderful Professor, who gave me a student job in his office, thus increasing my efficiency in doing my Master's Thesis. I want to stay here as long as I can.

How would you describe your time at Goethe University? What stood out to you – academically or personally?

Uyên: As this is our last semester and we only come here to do our master’s thesis, we have quite a few limitations in getting in touch and interacting with our German peers. However, my impression of Goethe University on every visit is that it is a very modern campus with a vibrant and diverse environment. With such diversity, I can always widen my knowledge whenever I talk to a new friend, as everyone brings a brand new perspective and experience from their unique background.

Đức: My time here has truly been rewarding. Not everyone gets this opportunity, and I feel grateful to be here. I’ve had the chance to work closely with my supervisor, which has been invaluable for my academic growth. Being at Goethe University has also allowed me to immerse myself in an international environment, giving me perspectives and experiences that I know will be incredibly useful, whether I go to another country in the future or return to Europe again. 

Tú: Because I have my office at the House of Finance, I usually go to Campus two to three times a week. I also visited the library and was super amazed by how many students there were. They looked so intelligent and hardworking, making me feel like I have to study more. Some of them also helped me a lot when I asked for directions or how to use my HRZ account.

How did the academic environment in Germany differ from what you were used to in Vietnam, and what stood out to you in particular?

Uyên: In Vietnam, I used to be instructed on the instant ways to apply what we know in the real world immediately; however, the academic environment in Germany does provide us with a background in every aspect of our studies. The German professors taught us to think about both the long-term and short-term impacts of our actions and the necessity to build sustainability in our lives. Hence, what really stood out to me and made me change my mind whenever I try to solve a problem is that not everything needs to be quick, and the good outcomes may take time.

Đức: The academic environment in Germany feels much more international, with students from so many different backgrounds. People here tend to be more active and competitive compared to what I’ve experienced in Vietnam, which is actually a great thing – it really pushes you to grow.

Were there any moments that challenged you during your stay, and what helped you grow from them?

Uyên: Yes, I guess it is not an exaggeration to say that every moment is a challenge to me. As this is the very first time that I set up a life abroad and live further away from my family, I need to rearrange my routines, my habits, to get used to a completely new environment, and even now, after 3 months of staying in Germany, I am still learning to do so. Everything here is entirely different from what I had known when I was in Vietnam: the weather, the transportation, the language, and even the way of communication. However, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. From plenty of times getting a bad cold, getting on the wrong bus, and miscommunication, I have learned well how to adapt and get on with all of those concerns. Now I feel confident that every difficulty is only temporary, and I know I will grow stronger when I learn how to overcome it.

Đức: One of the main challenges for me was not speaking German. This pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, be resourceful in finding help, and use English to connect with more German friends, which turned out to be a great experience. It was also my first time in the EU, and that alone helped me build mental strength and confidence, making me braver to take on new challenges and explore beyond my comfort zone.

Mai: Yes, of course. As I said before, this is my first time living far away from my parents. Everything is new, and I need to establish myself. I need to arrange my routine myself and prepare for a day in advance, things I didn’t do before, because my parents would prepare everything for me. I just needed to focus on studying. I saw myself grow on another level and prove I can live independently.

Tú: I received admission from another university and have difficulty with my new paperwork to extend my visa. Of course, when I was here for the first few days, there were so many things that I had to get used to. For example, directions to Frankfurt from the dormitory, where to buy stuff like a pillow, a blanket, food, etc. The key solution is to do everything yourself and have a clear plan of what to do next.

Did your stay in Frankfurt influence your professional goals or academic plans?

Đức: Yes, it would be pursuing a PhD after completing this master's degree.

Mai: Yes, it will be a competitive advantage when I apply for a job in Vietnam.

Do you have a favorite spot on campus or in the city you’ll always associate with your time here?

Uyên: I am fortunate enough to have my dormitory as my favorite place during my stay here in Germany. Although I have travelled quite a lot within and outside of Germany in the past 3 months, I have been to the most modern cities in Switzerland and visited the breathtaking sights in Königssee, none of them can bring me the peaceful and cozy atmosphere that my little room does. Hence, I love this place so much, and I wish to continue staying here if I have a chance to return to Germany in the future.

Mai: Yes, in Rüsselsheim, where I live, I like the quiet atmosphere. The rhythm is slow, and everything is nice and just fine. That is my favorite spot here. Whenever I feel stressed, I always go there to walk around, listen to music, and enjoy nature. I really feel relieved. 

What would you tell other students who are considering doing this experience?

Uyên: It will never be easy, but it will be the most beautiful time we have ever had.

Đức: It will be a wonderful experience, just do it!!

Tú: It really is a big decision, so you have to think carefully.

The Master in Global Finance & Economics is a full-time graduate program offered by the Vietnamese-German University in cooperation with Goethe Business School. The program combines rigorous academic training in finance and economics with practical insights from industry experts, preparing graduates for leadership roles in international markets.