15 EPICS students traveled to Da Nang and Hoi An, Vietnam during winter break of 2024. Vietnam offers a rich blend of innovation, tradition, and community engagement, making it an exciting destination for students involved in the EPICS program. From cutting-edge engineering spaces to centuries-old farming and pottery techniques, students gain hands-on experience while immersing themselves in Vietnamese culture.
One of the highlights of the trip is visiting the Maker Innovation Space at VNUK in Da Nang, established in 2019 through a collaboration with Fulton Engineering and USAID. This space provides students with access to advanced tools and resources to develop their engineering projects. The visit culminates in Project Showcase Day, where EPICS students present their Vietnam-based community service projects and receive valuable feedback from local students and faculty.
Cultural learning takes center stage with a visit to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Hoi An, where students engage in traditional Vietnamese farming practices. A particularly memorable experience includes riding farming bulls, offering a fun and authentic glimpse into rural life. Another hands-on cultural experience occurs at Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where students learn about traditional Vietnamese pottery techniques, shaping clay as artisans have done for generations.
Students also take time to explore the scenic and historical sites of Da Nang. Ba Na Hills, located on the city’s outskirts, offers breathtaking views and entertainment. A visit to the Chua Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the impressive Big Lady Buddha statue in the Son Tra Nature Reserve, provides a peaceful moment to appreciate Vietnamese spirituality and nature.
A crucial part of the experience involves meeting community partners at the University of Da Nang – University of Science and Education. Here, professors and researchers share their ongoing projects, while students receive insightful feedback from local community partners, including experts from the GreenViet Biodiversity Conservation Centre.
This immersive journey through Vietnam is a perfect blend of education, cultural exchange, and community impact, equipping students with valuable knowledge and experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.
