Name of activity/programme/experience
ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP) as a Marketing Intern at Arches Vietnam Company Limited in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
What motivated you to participate in this programme/activity?
I chose to participate in the ASEAN Internship Programme because I wanted to test what working abroad would actually feel like, beyond classroom discussions or short trips. Interning in Vietnam gave me that. Professionally, I learned how to balance efficiency with adaptability in a different work culture. The team was focused and structured, but also patient in helping me adjust, which made collaboration easier over time.
Please describe your overall experience.
Personally, the experience pushed me to be more independent. Living and working outside Singapore challenged many assumptions and showed me there are multiple ways to work effectively. This shift from a tourist to a local mindset reduced my fear of unfamiliar environments. As a result, I am now more open to pursuing roles in international markets.
In what ways did this experience add value to your SMU education and/or professional development?
This experience extended my SMU education beyond theory into real cross-cultural application. It allowed me to apply branding frameworks in a foreign market, while learning how local context shapes business practices. Professionally, it strengthened my independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills.
Why Asia? What advice would you give to juniors or fellow students who are considering a similar experience?
Being immersed in an Asian context showed me how consumer behavior and workplace culture differ from Singapore, which deepened my regional awareness. My advice is to go in with both openness and clarity. Be willing to question your assumptions, understand the “why” behind local practices, and step out of your comfort zone.
