At VUS, our teachers don’t just help students discover knowledge in the classroom, they also assist others in immersing in a rich and local experience through our unique Buddy Program*. Let us introduce a ‘familiar face’ of the Buddy Program: Ms. Pham Thi Thu Thuy, a dedicated teacher at VUS Buon Ma Thuot who has participated in the program as a Buddy three times.
Talking about how the program supports new expat teachers, Ms. Thuy shared: “The program serves as a “compass” for those stepping into Vietnam for the first time, especially in navigating a new local area. It offers more than just tips and reminders; it’s a gateway to fully immersing oneself in a new culture.”

The program offers more than just tips and reminders; it’s a gateway to fully immersing oneself in a new culture.
For Vietnamese teachers, being a Buddy is a fantastic way to rediscover their hometowns. As shared by Ms. Thuy: “Participating in this program three times has deepened my connection to my hometown, allowing me to rediscover its traditional and cultural beauty. There’s something incredibly thrilling about discovering cultural and historical gems, and even more so when you get to introduce someone to the unique flavors and specialties of your homeland. The joy on their faces when they learn the story behind a dish or sip a local drink is simply priceless.”
Participating in this program three times has deepened my connection to my hometown, allowing me to rediscover its traditional and cultural beauty.
Last but not least, it’s always nice to make new friends as well as new memories through the program. “Perhaps the greatest gift this program has given me is the gift of friendship. It’s not just about meeting people; it’s about forming real connections with those from vastly different cultures. Through these friendships, I’ve come to understand their hopes, concerns, and what excites them about living in a new place. In turn, I’ve been able to share the best of my hometown with a depth that would have otherwise remained hidden. This exchange of cultures has enriched my life in ways I never imagined.”
This exchange of cultures has enriched my life in ways I never imagined.

Conclusion
The VUS Buddy Program not only bridges cultural gaps but also fosters meaningful friendships and unforgettable experiences for both expat and Vietnamese teachers. As Ms. Thuy’s story beautifully illustrates, it is a journey of mutual discovery, where both the Buddies and the newcomers gain fresh perspectives on life in Vietnam. At VUS, we are proud to cultivate an environment where learning extends beyond the classroom, helping our teachers and students alike grow, connect, and thrive together.
*For more information about our Buddy Program, click on the link below to find out more: https://teachenglish.vus.edu.vn/buddy-program-overview/
⭐ For the best English teaching job in Vietnam, look no further than VUS, the leader in English Language Teaching (ELT) in Vietnam with:
🔷 30 years of experience
🔷 80+ campuses nationwide
🔷 2,7 million Vietnamese families’ trust
🔷 199,000 students achieving international English certificates
🔷 The highest number of students achieving perfect scores on international certificates of English exams in Vietnam
🔷 3,100+ dedicated teachers and teaching assistants
Start your journey with VUS today by applying at: