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VUS Buddy Program: Support for Expat Teachers in Vietnam

Teaching abroad is exciting, but settling into a new country can be challenging. That’s why VUS has created the Buddy Program – your best support to get localized!

Designed especially for expat teachers in Vietnam, this program pairs you with a local ‘buddy’ who will guide you through daily life. In addition, they will share cultural insights and practical tips to help you feel at home faster.

First thing first, why teach in Vietnam?

Among many other countries to teach, why does Vietnam stand out to be one of the most ideal destinations for expat teachers looking for a unique teaching experience? Here’s why:

  • Unique opportunities to experience diverse cultures.
  • Low cost of living.
  • Traditional savory cuisines.
  • A mix of vibrant cities and beautiful countryside.

Level up your teaching at VUS!

VUS continues to prove its leading position in the Vietnamese education industry year in and year out with:

  • 30 years of experience in providing English training.
  • 70+ campuses nationwide.
  • 2,700+ dedicated teaching staff.
  • 2,7 million Vietnamese families’ trust.

Ready for adventure, but nervous about the landing? Wish you had the inside scoop before you got there?

If you’re relocating to a new country halfway around the world, you might have some worries about culture shock. You might also be concerned that finding entertainment, clothing, or transportation will be difficult. 

VUS understands that adjusting to a new country, especially in areas away from the big city, can be challenging when it comes to navigating a new culture, language, and way of life. For this reason, we have developed a special Buddy Program to aid our new expat teachers working in the provinces in making the adjustment with ease.

1. What is the VUS Buddy Program?

Our Buddy Program pairs our new expat teachers with local VUS Vietnamese teachers or teaching assistants, who act as their personal guide. These buddies have been living and working in the area and are familiar with the local ins and outs. They will meet up with you on one of your very first days after your arrival and spend the day with you showing you around. You will be getting around in a comfortable, air-conditioned taxi, or maybe even on the back of their motorbike!

2. Localize yourself with Buddy Program!

Localize yourself with Buddy program

Part of your day with your new buddy will be spent familiarizing you with your new home and learning about managing your daily life necessities. Your buddy can help you open up a bank account or connect you with a local estate agent to find your new home.

If you still need a VN SIM card for your smartphone, our buddy will help get you a new phone number and data plan. For example, they can also introduce you to popular messaging, food delivery, and rideshare apps.

Need some new teacherwear or school supplies? Our buddy can show you around the best places to shop. We’ll also point out the local hospitals and pharmacies so you can stay safe and healthy.

Worried about getting around town? Our buddy will show you how to get a ride in a taxi or catch a Grab.

3. Try local cuisine with Buddy Program!

Are you intimidated by all of the new and strange food smells tickling your senses?

Do you wish you had a picture menu? Do you really wish you had a pizza right now?

Don’t worry! After a morning spent learning the ropes, our buddy will take you out to a delicious Vietnamese lunch and give you a crash course on how to order, as well as table etiquette you might not be familiar with. 

Get familiar with typical menu items, from things you might know, like phở and bánh mì, to new things like hủ tiếu (noodle soup), cơm tấm (broken rice), gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) and everything nướng (BBQ).

You can also charge up for your fun afternoon with a cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with milk)!

try local cuisine with Buddy program

4. Enjoy the fun stuff with Buddy Program!

Expat teacher tasting authentic Vietnamese cuisine with Buddy Program

The rest of your day is a chance to have some fun in the town. The Buddy Program includes visits to fascinating locations that highlight the uniqueness of your new home.

You could learn the history of your area at the local museum, or perhaps visit a temple that’s been in use for hundreds of years!

Learn the proper Vietnamese way to pay homage to your ancestors. Some amazing architecture also stands strong in the form of 100-year-old churches, well-maintained over the years.

Alternatively, you might head out to nature and take in the sights and fresh air! Relax by the local lake or seashore and get to know your buddy, maybe even over more coffee.

Don't let the fear of the unknown hold you back from your teaching adventure!

With the help of our Buddy Program you can overcome culture shock and homesickness, as well as settle into your new life in Vietnam with ease. VUS provides both academic and general support to all of our teachers throughout their teaching journey, especially so out in our countryside campuses.

Expat teacher joining VUS Buddy Program in Vietnam

Find out more about the locations where VUS Buddy Program are applied in the tabs below. 

Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back from your teaching dreams. Apply for a teaching position at VUS and kick off your new career in Vietnam with confidence!