To get more experience

Warrant Officer Phailin Bounyang arrived in Vietnam in 2019. He spent one month studying Vietnamese at Unit 871 under the General Department of Political Affairs of the Vietnam People’s Army, and four years studying journalism at the MUCA.

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Phailin Bounyang acts as an MC at a ceremony to conclude an academic year at the Department of Archives and Journalism, Military University of Culture and Arts.

Since the very first days staying in Vietnam, Warrant Officer Phailin Bounyang had many difficulties from differences of language and culture. He held that when he came to Hanoi, he had to do everything by himself. He was determined to study Vietnamese first; then in 2020, he continued his study at the MUCA. To keep up with his classmates, he tried to read books and joined teamwork to learn with his peers.

His second Fatherland

Living and studying in Vietnam, Phailin Bounyang gradually adapted to his new life. The unforgettable experience in the country has made him feel that Vietnam is his second Fatherland.  

“When I had difficulties, I always received support from my instructors and Vietnamese students. I felt that Vietnamese teachers are friendly, enthusiastic, and hospitable. Especially, the country is home to many interesting tourist destinations,” added Phailin Bounyang.

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Instructor, Senior Captain Nguyen Minh Tuan, and Lao cadets in a joint photo

Regarding Vietnamese cuisine, Phailin Bounyang said that Vietnamese dishes are very delicious and diverse. Before visiting Vietnam, he was nervous about the difference of food. However, he loved Vietnamese food right after the first taste of dishes such as Hue noodles, baked spring rolls, and pho, among others. He can now cook some Vietnamese dishes.

Vietnam has become not only his second Fatherland, but also the place to connect foreign students, including Lao cadets studying at the MUCA. From being unfamiliar and surprised, many Lao cadets, including Phailin Bounyang, got used to their new life.

“I feel really comfortable in Vietnam where I am loved by the Vietnamese people and friends. For me, the Vietnamese people are hard-working, good at doing business, and persistent. After coming back to Laos, I will introduce Vietnam and the Vietnamese people to my relatives, especially the sentiments that they spare for Lao cadets,” he stressed.

Translated by Minh Anh