Exploring Exciting Internship Opportunities in Consulting and Real Estate: SMU ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP) in Vietnam
SMU students Wesley Mok and Zermane Heng’s internships in Vietnam were transformative, offering professional growth in consulting and real estate while deepening their understanding of the region’s dynamic business environment. Immersing themselves in Vietnam’s vibrant culture, they gained valuable insights that will lay the groundwork for their future careers in global industries.
An overseas internship is more than just a résumé booster – it’s a gateway to professional growth, personal transformation, and cultural immersion. For SMU undergraduates Wesley Mok and Zermane Heng, participants in the ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP), their internships in Vietnam embodied all these dimensions.
While Wesley and Zermane honed critical skills in consulting and real estate, their experiences extended far beyond the workplace. By navigating Vietnam’s unique business and cultural landscapes, they not only gained invaluable insights into Southeast Asia’s socio-economic dynamics but also developed perspectives that will shape their future careers.
Gaining professional insights at Dezan Shira & Associates and CapitaLand Real Estate Management
Driven by a passion to understand Vietnam’s socio-economic landscape, Wesley interned at consulting firm Dezan Shira & Associates. His role involved conducting market research, analysing data, and preparing presentations for client meetings.
During his internship, Wesley also had the opportunity to participate in business meetings with international companies exploring market entry into Vietnam. These interactions exposed Wesley, an SMU School of Economics undergraduate, to diverse negotiation strategies and decision-making processes, giving him a deeper, more nuanced understanding of effective business communication. His research into consumer behaviour and market trends added another layer of expertise to his skillset.
“This internship provided me with an invaluable opportunity to gain real-world experience in consulting while immersing myself in Vietnam’s dynamic business scene. The kindness of the locals and the diverse professional challenges I faced made this a truly enriching experience.”
At the same time, Zermane pursued her passion for real estate with CapitaLand Real Estate Management in Hanoi. She thrived in her role, managing multiple projects under tight deadlines, which sharpened her project management and problem-solving skills.
The undergraduate from the SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business was given the opportunity to travel to Ho Chi Minh City to support a major property development launch. Working on projects like Lumi Prestige and Sycamore gave her invaluable hands-on experience in the real estate sector while strengthening her ability to collaborate across teams.
“Interning at CapitaLand in Vietnam was a fantastic experience. The opportunity to contribute to major projects, while learning about the regional real estate market, has been invaluable. I’ve gained new perspectives and developed skills that I will carry forward in my career.”
Adapting to Vietnam’s workplace culture
Beyond technical skills, Wesley and Zermane encountered distinctive elements of Vietnamese workplace culture, offering fresh perspectives on how cultural nuances shape professional dynamics.
Wesley noticed a more flexible approach to schedules in Vietnam, where employees often prioritise taking the time to recharge after lunch. While different from Singapore’s emphasis on strict punctuality, this practice fosters a greater focus on well-being and work-life balance.
For Zermane, the key lesson lay in the importance of relationship-building. She noted that fostering trust and personal connections is a cornerstone of Vietnamese workplaces, influencing collaboration and communication. While the work ethic mirrored Singapore’s, these cultural nuances added a layer of depth to her understanding of cross-cultural collaboration.
Exploring Vietnam: A balance of work and travel
Outside of work, Wesley and Zermane fully embraced Vietnam’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.
From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil beauty of Sapa and the Mekong Delta, Wesley experienced Vietnam’s diversity firsthand. He was captivated by the stark contrast between the dynamic energy of urban life and the serene charm of rural areas – each offering its own unique perspective on Vietnam’s diverse culture.
Zermane, too, made the most of her weekends, conquering Fansipan – the highest peak in Indochina – and soaking in the lively atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City. For moments of relaxation, she turned to the beaches of Da Nang and Hoi An, which offered her a chance to unwind and reflect on her transformative journey.
Reflecting on personal and professional growth
For both Wesley and Zermane, their internships in Vietnam proved pivotal, equipping them with crucial skills and unforgettable experiences.
Wesley emerged with sharpened analytical abilities and a deeper understanding of consulting in international markets, while his interactions with locals enriched his global outlook. Zermane honed her project management and intercultural communication skills, setting a strong foundation for a career in real estate.
Ready to take the leap?
The ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP) offers SMU students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultures while gaining professional insights across the ASEAN region. This overseas internship not only fulfils two crucial graduation requirements – global exposure and internship – but also paves the way for personal and career growth.
Ready to expand your horizons? Explore available internships here today and take the first step toward a transformative journey!
