Today was a fun mix of activities that all connected in some way which I was surprised by. We started with language class, where I learned how to say “hi how much,” followed by “so expensive, please discount,” – Bao nhiêu tiėn? Đắt quá, giảm giá dim – which I felt was all I was going to need for the Ben Thanh Market later. Two UEF students also taught us how to say please in a cute way which was fun!

Painting hats was also really fun because it felt like a creative and relaxed way to experience Vietnamese culture. On my hat I painted a dove because I was thinking about the war museum. 

After lunch, we went to Ben Thanh Market, which was huge. I felt like I could have spent a whole day there. Shopping was very different from home because it was so interactive. The sellers were direct, and bargaining made the experience a little stressful but fun. I got a little bit of a high when I felt like I got a good deal.

The Economics talk at the Consulate was also more interesting than I expected. It connected really well to my final paper on the Doi Moi reforms because it showed how Vietnam’s economic changes are still shaping the country today. I also thought it was funny when fake goods were mentioned right after we had just gone shopping, but it showed how complex economic growth can be.

When thinking about Vietnam’s goal of becoming a high-income country by 2045, I do think it is possible, but maybe in a way that looks different from other countries. From what we have seen, manufacturing, exports, and foreign investment are major parts of Vietnam’s growth. Site visits like Cat Lai showed how connected Vietnam already is to the global economy. If the country continues improving infrastructure, technology, and sustainability, I think this goal can be achievable.