Rebekah Shin (microbiology)
Rebekah Shin, a fourth-year microbiology student, spent a semester completing her co-op at the Vietnam National University as a research intern.
Her co-op opportunity led her to the Biotechnology Lab at the International University, where she performed the entire process of In-Vitro Maturation (IVM) and In-Vitro Development (IVD) of porcine embryos.
Working in Vietnam
“We mainly communicated in English, although there were some challenges. I learned basic Vietnamese phrases to ease the communication gap and also frequently used lab-related words to navigate around the lab. The lab members were all very shy to talk to us at first, but they were all extremely welcoming and open when I approached them first, and I quickly made friends in the lab. I am still regularly in touch with some of them.”
Backpacking to Angkor Wot
Rebekah’s exploration beyond the lab led her to experience some of the most memorable moments of her life. Her weekend backpacking trips to cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Siem Reap, coupled with her extensive travels within Vietnam, reflected her desire to get out of her comfort zone and make the most of her journey.
“There are sleeper buses that connect most large cities and also very cheap flights to different cities in the neighbouring countries. Watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat and walking around the remains of ancient Khmer temples is something I will never forget. I went on a 3-day motorbike tour in Ha Giang, the northernmost border of Vietnam – it has breathtaking views of steep mountain passes and is also home to many minor ethnic groups.
In the north, I also visited Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Ha Noi. Eating Naengmyeon (North Korean Cold Noodle) and drinking Taedonggang beer at a North Korean restaurant in Ha Noi was also an interesting experience.”
“I also loved exploring different districts of HCMC after work and on weekends - just taking the bus and walking around the city, trying new food, visiting random places, and blending into the lives of locals. Saigon is divided into 24 districts, and each has a unique atmosphere.
Travelling was great but the memories I miss the most are the times I spent with the friends I made in the lab. Just small everyday memories like eating their suggested lunch menu together at the school cafeteria, joining lab dinners after work, grabbing street food outside campus when we stayed late in the lab, and visiting a weekend market are what I miss the most.”
Advice for other students
“Even if you’re unsure, just give it a try! It was one of the highlights of my university years and also one of the best seasons of my life. You’ll make lifelong friends and gain memorable cultural experiences. Also, if you complete an international co-op term in the spring, then you have the rest of summer to travel around.”
Discovering her own strength
“The four months I spent in Vietnam changed how I view the world around me.
When you live in a new country, you hurdle through so many small and big challenges every day without even realising it. I discovered that I am more resilient and stronger than I thought. I developed patience, adaptability, and courage to challenge myself to experiences that seem daunting.”
Rebekah’s journey in Vietnam not only shaped her scientific and academic skills but also allowed her to evolve her outlook on life.