Introduction
Attending Saint John’s University and the College of Saint Benedict in the mid-to-late 1990s in Minnesota, I was fascinated about Asia and was particularly interested in experiencing Vietnam, the country which my parents immigrated from.
Unfortunately, at that time, the only two Vietnam educational programs I could find were Semester at Sea and Stanford University’s Volunteers in Asia program.
I recall reaching out to Stanford expressing my interest, but they replied that the program was more geared to their own students.
Without too many other programs that would allow me to experience Vietnam, I gave up on the idea.
In the last couple of decades, Vietnam has been rising economically and is one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
Enter the E-Scholars Program
Now decades removed from college and after having spent years living and working in Asia, most recently, Vietnam, I am elated to have assisted my former business professor, Paul Marsnik, by contributing to the school’s Entreprenuer-Scholars Vietnam field study
Paul has been bringing a group of about twenty college students to Vietnam the last couple of decades where they are encouraged to get out of their comfort zone taking part in a city scavenger hunt, meeting locals and foreign expats, as well experiencing the local culture.
All students are required to make presentations touching upon entrepreneurship, their cultural interactions, and report on any interesting insights.
Paul Marsnik and staff enjoying an evening in front of Hotel Continental, one of the country's most famous and historic hotels.
The two week itinerary, in the past, has included visiting Saint John’s alumni, Long Nguyen, co-founder of Everfi.io at their Danang office as well as alumni working at prominent companies and institutions in Hanoi and throughout the country.
Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant economic development and modernity juxtapositioned alongside its deep history and cultural landmarks make for an amazing backdrop for any student to experience.
Conclusion
As they depart on their two-week country immersion January 2026, I reflect on the amazing opportunity the students will encounter.
Though I never experienced Vietnam during my college years, I have been grateful for Paul Marnsnik and the ability to participate and to contribute to the last couple of Vietnam field studies.
Vietnam has changed tremendously the last twenty-five years---economically, technologically, and globally---and the students who are lucky enough to experience the country’s dynamism, rich history and culture will forever be transformed into global citizens.
P.S. If you are traveling to Vietnam, check out www.VietnamForDigitalNomads.com.
www.InternationalVinh.com
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