I am Nguyen Duc Viet - one of the seven students of the University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, on a study tour at the University of Valladolid (UVa, Spain) under the ERASMUS+ BioEcoN project. Although only 15 short days, the process of living and studying here has given me extremely valuable experiences.
Palencia greeted us on a freezing day, getting off the bus at midnight and I could not help but be surprised because the weather was much harsher than in Vietnam. Contrary to the cold weather, the people are gentle, hospitable and immensely warm. The receptionist at the hotel always look after everyone carefully, and even hung our picture on the hotel bulletin board as a friendly welcome; or the enthusiastic residents who took me to the right place when asked; the professors and staffs at the Valladolid university always assist us wholeheartedly; I have been helped a lot by people here.
Culture
The most interesting thing I noticed about the culture is how people enjoy life. Life in Palencia seems to be slower than what I am familiar with in the capital Hanoi, Palencia is incredibly leisurely and peaceful. People usually have lunch and dinner at 14 hours and 21 hours, the meals usually last a long time and it is the time they spend to relax with their friends and family. On the streets, shops also often close early in the afternoon and rarely open on weekends.
The tranquil city.
In addition, Spanish culture is always vibrant with dances and the festive atmosphere filled over the country. I could easily catch festivals around the church anywhere, or the crowded bars every Saturday night. Indeed, people always know how to relish a fun-filled life after stressful working hours!
Festival at the church.
Walking around Palencia, I was overwhelmed by the ancient architecture. Large squares, quaint buildings and sophisticated architecture churches spread all over the city. One of them is the town hall, it is a tremendous honor for us to be met and welcomed by the mayor of Palencia. Thereby, we have also heard more about the development history, economy as well as the dominant culture of this city.
Meeting with the mayor of Palencia.
This ERASMUS + sponsored program is also a marvellous opportunity for me to interact and get to know with many students from around the world, such as Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, India, Japan. ... Therefore, I have the chance to learn about the cultures as well as establish relationships for the learning and working process in the future. Previously, thanks to the support of ERASMUS +, I also had the fortune to take part in supporting the implementation of the SAUNAC project - Sustainability Alliance of Urban Networks in Asian Cities. Through the time participating in the program of ERASMUS + fund, I realize that this is a great opportunity for everyone, especially young people, to study, exchange and accumulate experience as a basis for further development.
Interaction with the students.
Knowledge
At the University of Valladolid, it was my opportunity to join the subjects focusing on the main theme: sustainable forest development and bio-economy. With my current specialization in environment and sustainable development, those subjects provided me with plenty of useful knowledge. Furthermore, under the guidance of professors from Germany, Spain, Finland and Vietnam, along with the international learning environment, it has provided me with worthy experiences, we are always encouraged to ask questions, discuss openly and express personal opinions.
Learning time.
I am really impressed by the enthusiasm and thoughtfulness of the professors involved in this course. With effective teaching methods, I was taught a great amount of comprehensive knowledge after only two weeks. In particular, they always maintain a harmonious relationship with learners, teachers often get involved in intimate meals and inquire for students about life abroad after every lesson.
Intimate meal between professors and students.
Apart from the lectures, we have the chance to attend numerous field trips and practical collective activities. We have the occasion to visit Monte el Viejo, Saldaña forest, Central forest nursery SOMACYL, CEREBOSMA Resinas Naturales company, etc. These are all fascinating and practical places with learning programs. Thereby the student can absorb more effectively the knowledge learned in the classroom through experiments as well as exploring the actual working environment. I feel to be widened my perspectives and discovering a lot after each trip.
Some collective activities.
15 days in Uva, Palencia gave me a truly unrivalled experience. Thanks to this study program, I have the fortune to experience new things, understand deeply about culture and humanity, acquire new skills and have more opportunities to develop myself in the future. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the ERASMUS + program, University of Valladolid as well as the professor and the people in Palencia for giving me unforgettable memories.
See you again!