Charles Sturt University 2025
We travelled to Vietnam because of the opportunities it offered — experiencing how a different country organised its healthcare system and how treatments differed from Australia. Getting pushed out of my comfort zone was another main driving factor, and we took in as much as possible in the short time we were there.
A few of our friends had done it before, and all of them had said, “You need to do it, it's an amazing experience.” We were also excited to experience a different culture, meet new people, make new friends, and make new memories.
The Work the World team was always available to answer any questions and help in any way they could. The structure and process were also well organised, making the trip easier.
The placement hospital was eye-opening, to say the least. We were amazed at its size and how each department was laid out. The most confronting part was the patients' lack of privacy. We quickly learned to be clear and concise with patients in a noisy and crowded environment.
We also learned how to communicate with patients who couldn’t speak English, ensuring they got what they needed. We gained a lot of clinical knowledge around injuries in the musculoskeletal area, and learned about various modalities and their uses.
We saw how local staff dealt with frozen shoulders, how they tested for them, and what they did once confirmed. We also saw why patients showed certain symptoms — seeing two surgeries was rather memorable. We saw how they were conducted, which gave me an idea of why they showed the problems they did after surgery, which we, as physios, would later have to address.
There is a lack of privacy here compared to my home country. Rehabilitation uses a large number of modalities and equipment. Family is essential and plays a role in patient care and rehabilitation.
Go and bond over Hudas. Going on a number of adventures and experiencing what the city of Hue has to offer. Bonding over games and getting a lot of Hue to know each other while enjoying ourselves in a homely environment.
We got to experience a different healthcare system. We were exposed to how to overcome a language barrier and help patients with the use of limited equipment. We saw more than what we would in a placement at home, seeing different areas of rehabilitation, which was extremely beneficial.
The Work the World house was awesome. It was full of other university students from around the world who were all so much fun and wanted to have a great time. There was a big living area with spaces for socialising, eating, and the occasional drink! The in-country team was absolutely awesome and super supportive. They made the house feel like home because of how kind, caring, and funny they were. The chefs were also amazing!
Just do it! It’s the most enjoyable experience that you will never forget. We were so glad we got the opportunity and will forever be grateful. The people were so kind and caring, and that is something we will never forget.
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