Sometimes I Sweat in Vietnam

A group of students from Johnson State College (JSC) is spending the next few weeks with Clear Path International in Vietnam. This is possible due to a partnership between Clear Path, the Break Away Program and JSC. The students and staff will be posting tales and photos from their journey to this blog. You can read all of their posts by clicking here. Photos can be enlarged by clicking them


(Written by Tess Gauthier)
This morning we met officials from the Friendship Union. For this we sat in a long rectangular room....black and white checkered floor, all chairs were lined in a long row, each chair seperated by a stand with 2 water glasses and bottled water, making the meeting feel very official. We answered a series of questions and got some background info. about the Friendship Union. Overall I think we made a good impression, even though we were drenched in sweat and probably smelled.




After this...back to the hotel quickly and off to a local high school. This is the same school Ho Chi Minh studied at, as well as many other famous Vietnamese leaders. It's 1 of 3 national schools and students must be selected to attend. Upon our arrival we were greeted very warmly. Shortly after, we assisted students in doing some yard work. This lasted about 15 minutes, probably because they noticed we were all drenched in sweat. The school was beautiful, hallways were wide open and a warm breeze blew in all directions. The window shutters were very ornate, and the school itself was painted a very cool redish color.

After yard work we exchanged songs and dances. The Vietnamese once again delivered a beautiful traditional dance and we performed our token song "This Land is Our Land". Also, I performed a duet with a Vietnamese boy to a Mariah Carey song ("Hero"). Needless to say, I was right on point. Just kidding, but he was. We all said our so longs and some exchanged addresses.
Off to teaching English........for this we are partnered with Vietnamese students learning English. I don't think we would be able to teach without them. They all have so much to offer, especially since english is so fresh on their minds. I really enjoy this partnership.......we get to experience Vietnam through the Vietnamese vs. being tourists.....very rich and insighful. The children at the school are a pleasure to teach and they absorb so much. We are moving right along with the alphabet.