Students leader exchange program in Chiang Mai University was a wonderful journey. It was further than what I expected. On September 6th, the delegation from Can Tho University departed for Bangkok and spent nearly 10 hours on the bus heading to CMU. Arriving at the hotel later than expected, we felt exhausted and a little disappointed. However, we were surprised by the hospitality of CMU’s delegation. It was late at night then, but they waited for us for dinner which was not included in the schedule. This foresaw us how this journey would be interesting. Indeed, the next days, we had the opportunities to experience different activities which vary from academic to spiritual ones.
Welcoming Ceremony
About spiritual activities, we visited some famous temples of Chiang Mai which have been constructed meticulously and existed for many years. Especially, for the first time in my life, I joined in the trekking event to Doi Suthep which belonged to the Welcoming Freshmen activities of CMU. Approximately 14 kilometers up to the mountain brought us mixed feelings. We were surprised of how important this occasion is to CMU’s students, and depressed of how hard the trekking is. Above all, we deeply felt the solidarity of the participants as well as the happiness of reaching the destination. Through this event, I absolutely admire how great the belief of Thai people in spiritual elements is and it would be an unforgettable memory of my lifetime.
Doi Suthep Trekking
At nights, CTU’s students were able to explore Chiang Mai’s local markets. In addition, I learned some Thai words and Thai traditional food’s recipes which either are exciting experiences.
About academic activities, we visited ERDI – Energy Research and Development Institute and ITSC – Information Technology Service Center. I myself really enjoyed these activities because I had the chance to observe different models of modern technology and the mechanism of IT system applied in CMU. I was impressed by the circulation of energy within the campus in which environmentally friendly “Zero-Waste” system was operated to consume energy efficiently and
help saving the environment.
ERDI – CMU
Student leaders exchange program between CTU and CMU has widen my knowledge about modern technology and unique culture of Chiang Mai. I hope that CTU may acquire useful information and apply it suitably to our school system such as improving the Internet quality in the campus, encouraging students to save the environment by categorizing trash, using reusable items. Finally, I hope that the relationship between CTU and CMU will remain close-knit and more programs will be established to provide students from both universities the best opportunities to improve themselves.
Lý Ngọc Phụng [June]
