What if you could gain working experience beyond Singapore, and immerse yourself in a new culture? Through the ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP), SMU students get a chance to work and live abroad, experiencing new cultures while gaining professional experience.  

For Tan Jia En and Lam Cui Xi, embarking on the AIP in Vietnam became more than just a place to work and experience the local culture. It provided a lesson in adaptability, work-life balance, and career growth.

Discovering a new way of working

Jia En, a Smart City Management and Technology major, was eager to experience Vietnam’s fast-evolving digital landscape. Having previously participated in the AIP, he saw this internship as a chance to deepen his knowledge of business automation. However, he didn’t expect the experience to completely reshape his views on productivity and efficiency.

In particular, he observed that Vietnamese workplaces prioritise work-life balance, a stark contrast to the fast-paced environment he was used to in Singapore. At first, Jia En felt compelled to work overtime to meet deadlines. However, his colleagues encouraged him to take breaks and recharge. Over time, he learnt that true efficiency isn’t about working longer hours—it’s about working smarter. This shift in perspective profoundly impacted how he approaches his work.

For Cui Xi, a Human Resource and Accounting major, interning in Da Nang introduced her to a professional culture that emphasised employee well-being and collaboration. 

One of the most surprising aspects for her was the midday break, where colleagues would take time to rest before resuming work. This felt unusual for Cui Xi, but she soon noticed that this break led to a noticeable boost in productivity and engagement when her colleagues returned to their tasks.

Adapting to a different pace 

Outside the office, daily life in Vietnam brought new challenges and discoveries. Both Jia En and Cui Xi had to adjust to the more relaxed approach to time management, where flexibility was key. 

Although meetings and schedules weren’t always fixed, the quality of work remained high, proving that structure and results didn’t always have to go hand in hand.

Transportation was another adjustment for both interns. With motorbikes dominating the streets, it created a chaotic yet organised rhythm to daily commuting. 

Cui Xi initially found the idea of riding a motorbike through the busy streets daunting. However, after taking a few rides with her colleagues, she embraced the experience. It became more than just a way to get around the city—it was part of immersing herself in the local culture.

For Jia En, language presented its own challenges. He learnt to navigate by using clear, structured communication. By simplifying complex ideas, he not only worked more effectively but also enhanced his problem-solving skills—a valuable takeaway for any career.

Lessons learned in work and life

By the end of their internships, both students have gained far more than technical skills. 

Jia En walked away with a new perspective on success, realising that career growth isn’t solely about climbing the corporate ladder, but also about finding fulfillment and balance. The overseas internship experience also deepened his appreciation for Southeast Asia’s growing industries and opportunities, particularly in the tech sector.

For Cui Xi, the workplace culture in Da Nang showed her that a positive environment is key to job satisfaction. The camaraderie and genuine enjoyment among her colleagues made work feel less like an obligation, and more like a shared effort toward a common goal.

Ready to start a new journey?

The ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP) offers students a chance to immerse themselves in different cultures and gain valuable professional insights across the ASEAN region. If you're looking to explore the region and grow both professionally and personally, this programme might be the perfect fit for you.

Don’t miss the chance to transform your career and immerse yourself in a new culture with the ASEAN Internship Programme. Apply today and start your journey!