News and Events

Bulgarian exchange student shares her study experience at UEF: “I always felt supported and welcomed”

07/17/2026

Choosing Vietnam for her six-month exchange programme, Selin Ali, a Bulgarian student from HZ University of Applied Sciences (the Netherlands), had the opportunity to study at UEF from February to July 2026. From the initial challenges of adapting to a new environment to confidently integrating into campus life and academic activities, Selin’s journey reflects UEF’s open, dynamic, and international learning environment.

Selin Ali (fourth from the left) participated in the exchange programme during Semester 2 of the academic year 2025–2026 at UEF

Choosing UEF for its growth and international orientation

Speaking about her decision to study at UEF, Selin shared that she has always been passionate about Finance and was eager to experience a new academic environment through a student exchange programme. When she learned that UEF had recently become a partner institution of her university in the Netherlands, she proactively applied and became one of the first students to participate in the exchange.

“What impressed me from the beginning was how quickly UEF has developed despite being a relatively young university. The facilities are modern, the environment is dynamic, and the international orientation is very clear. I also like the university’s location in Binh Thanh District, which is vibrant yet still conveniently close to the city centre,” Selin said.

Selin was impressed by UEF’s learning environment

According to Selin, studying at a private university for the first time also offered a unique perspective that differed from the public educational institutions she had attended previously.

A practical curriculum that encourages active learning

Before arriving in Vietnam, Selin expected the academic workload to be lighter than in the Netherlands. However, her actual experience at UEF provided a different perspective.

She found that each course was assessed through various components, including assignments, discussions, presentations, and projects, rather than relying solely on a final examination. The appropriate level of academic challenge and clearly defined expectations motivated students to stay engaged throughout the semester.

One aspect that Selin particularly appreciated was the use of open-book examinations in several courses. “Being allowed to use materials during exams reduced some of the pressure, but that certainly did not mean I could study less. I still needed to understand the concepts in order to apply them, and I genuinely learned a great deal from every course,” she explained.

A welcoming environment that helps international students adapt quickly

Beyond academics, what Selin remembers most about her time at UEF is the support she received from lecturers, staff members, and fellow students.

According to Selin, lecturers were always willing to answer questions, provide additional learning resources, and regularly check in to ensure she was not experiencing difficulties in her studies. “I always felt supported. The lecturers consistently encouraged me to reach out whenever I encountered any issues,” she shared.

The Bulgarian exchange student enthusiastically participated in a variety of extracurricular activities alongside UEF students

The university’s staff also left a strong impression through their comprehensive support, which began even before she arrived in Vietnam. Assistance with visa applications, accommodation recommendations, student account setup, orientation activities, learning materials, and prompt communication via WhatsApp all contributed to a smooth transition into her new environment. Furthermore, Selin received valuable advice on travelling, Vietnamese culture, and daily life from the staff members who supported international students.

Friendships that transcend language barriers

Throughout her studies, Selin participated in numerous group projects, presentations, and case-study activities alongside Vietnamese students. Although she acknowledged that English communication could initially be challenging for some students, she viewed this as an opportunity to strengthen her intercultural communication skills.

Beyond the classroom, UEF students enthusiastically helped Selin settle into life in Vietnam. From showing her how to use the university’s elevator system and recommending cafés, lunch spots, and weekend destinations to sharing insights into Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and everyday life, these experiences created many memorable moments during her exchange semester.

Selin created many unforgettable memories during her international semester at UEF

As her international exchange semester came to an end, Selin returned home not only with valuable academic knowledge but also with experiences in cultural exchange, meaningful friendships, and intercultural communication.

Selin’s reflections highlight UEF’s commitment to fostering an open and inclusive learning environment where local and international students can learn, connect, and grow together. Through its comprehensive support services, multicultural exchange activities, and internationally oriented academic programmes, UEF continues to strengthen its appeal to students from around the world, contributing to a diverse, vibrant, and globally connected learning community.

Center of Information and Communication