Yesterday was our day off of blogging but it was a really awesome day! That’s why the blog numbers are messed up because it’s day 7 of the blogs but day 8 of the trip. Yesterday, we visited the Cu Chi Tunnels that were used by guerrilla soldiers during what we know as the Vietnam war. It was incredible to learn of the different perspectives of the war and to climb through the tunnels to experience a tiny glimpse of what life was like. Our lunch yesterday was amazing again, of course, then we were able to visit an art shop that was opened shortly after the war for those with lasting disabilities from injury and things like poison gas. Their work is very tedious, making gorgeous art pieces with tiny pieces of egg shell and seashells. It was a beautiful experience to try one of the steps of the art process for myself to learn just how much work is put into each piece.
Today was cool in its own way. We visited Coherent, an industrial, communications, and electronics manufacturing company that was founded in Pennsylvania. We were able to take a tour of their multi-building manufacturing facilities, and what we learned and the technology that was discussed is so far beyond my comprehension that I’m simply speechless. Their technology and machinery was fantastic. I didn’t get a ton of time to discuss employee life and overall company culture, but I didn’t like seeing that a lot of the workspaces are filled with women, especially in such a male dominated industry. It was really interesting to me that there’s not really a specialized degree for this kind of machinery yet, but that Coherent hires engineers solely on soft skills and has in house training programs.
After our site visit we had what was probably my favorite meal so far with beef, fried rice (and I normally dislike it), and sticky rice. Later in the afternoon, though, we played soccer against the official UEF competitive teams. They were taking it so easy on us, thankfully, since none of the girls had really played a lot before, but it was actually really fun and exciting and a really cool experience.
Tomorrow is more cultural visits, which I’m really excited for, but today was fascinating as well. I’ve had so much fun, I can’t believe this trip is almost over!!
