The decision to study abroad under the TAG-AIMS program (ASEAN International Mobility for Students Program) at the University of Tsukuba came as a surprise and bring also good luck to me even though I may graduate later than my fellow students because of a gap year. However, if you want to explore and decide your future, there is nothing better than this opportunity.  

Although I have heard and watched many television shows about the country and Japanese people, but when I came here, I feel that this place is far more wonderful than imagination. Since the start of a new life here in this place, I received enthusiastic help from teachers, friends or even a passerby. They did not hesitate to instruct and answer all of my questions even they were also busy at that time. They even helped me before they did their job.

Tsukuba University is one of the longest-known universities in Japan, ranking 20th in Asia with 145 years of history. The school focused on research and technical sciences. The university's campus is about 258 hectares covered in green color by plenty of trees in harmony with nature, which makes me feel to be lost in different world.

My study began in the spring, when Japan is being covered by cherry blossoms all over the place from the parks, rivers to along the roads. The fragile petals fly in the wind like a romantic rain. Tsukuba University is no exception as you can enjoy the beautiful of watching cherry blossoms everywhere, which I could not imagine before. Cycling on the way to university, under the shade of cherry blossoms trees, sniffing the scent of the sun and the wind made me energetic to start the lessons every day.

The TAG – AIMS program is diverse in subject matter and research. Along with the enthusiastic teaching of professors, every lesson becomes interesting and easy to understand. I had good chances to learn and practice my favorite subjects here. In addition, facilities such as laboratories and libraries are fully and modernly equipped in order to provide the best research and study condition for faculty members and students.

Tsukuba University also has many professional extracurricular clubs such as music clubs, Yosaiko, Tennis or Volunteer. All students can participate and will be instructed thoughtfully. The gym and swimming pool of the university are also frequented places for students to come after stressful school day to improve their physical health and refresh their minds. On holidays or weekends, I can easily travel to Tokyo, Kyoto by bus or trains. Learning the culture and enjoying the beautiful scenery and traditional food make me love people and this country more and more.

The TAG – AIMS program not only provides me the opportunity to learn such many things but also to create memorable moments and to have good friends from different countries. Could you imagine that although people are not the same nationality, do not have the same skin color and speak different languages, we can live together and help each other like siblings? Is that great? I am sure this will be the most wonderful experience in my life that I will always keep in my heart. Thanks to TAG – AIMS, thanks to Tsukuba University and Thuyloi University for giving me these precious moments!

Student Vu Huong Ngan - Class 55NKN