August 16, 2024 | Posted by Team SchooPed_(1).png)
Dreaming of teaching English in the heart of Vietnam? Discover the reality behind the classroom. From navigating bustling streets to inspiring young minds, this blog shares the ups and downs of a foreign teacher's life. Find out how to land your dream teaching jobs in Vietnam through platforms like SchooPed and explore the incredible rewards of immersing yourself in this vibrant culture.
This blog is contributed by Elissa, Full-time ESL Teacher working in Vietnam.
Vietnam, with its rich culture, vibrant cities, and welcoming people, has become a popular destination for foreign teachers. For many, teaching English in Vietnam offers not only a chance to explore a beautiful country but also an opportunity to contribute to the educational growth of young learners. In this blog, I'll take you through a typical day in the life of a foreign teacher in Vietnam, highlighting the routines, challenges, and rewards that come with this unique experience.
6:00 AM: Waking Up to the Sounds of Vietnam
My day begins early, usually around 6:00 AM. The city is already awake, with the sounds of motorbikes zooming by, street vendors setting up their stalls, and the occasional rooster crowing in the distance. I live in a modest apartment in the heart of the city, surrounded by the lively atmosphere that is quintessentially Vietnamese. The first thing I do is open the windows to let in the fresh morning air and take a few moments to soak in the sights and sounds of the bustling streets below.
6:30 AM: Morning Routine and Breakfast
After freshening up, I prepare a simple breakfast. While Western options like cereal or toast are available, I often opt for a more local choice – a bowl of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) or a banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) from a nearby street vendor. These traditional Vietnamese breakfasts are not only delicious but also a great way to start the day on a cultural note. I enjoy my meal while sipping on a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee, known for its rich flavor and bold kick.
7:00 AM: Commuting to School
By 7:00 AM, I’m ready to head to the school where I teach. The commute is an adventure in itself, as navigating the busy streets of Vietnam can be both exhilarating and daunting. I usually ride a motorbike, the most common mode of transport in the country. The streets are filled with a chaotic yet surprisingly organized flow of traffic, with motorbikes weaving in and out between cars, buses, and pedestrians. Despite the seeming chaos, there’s a rhythm to it that I’ve come to appreciate over time.
7:30 AM: Arriving at School
I arrive at the school a little before 7:30 AM, just in time to prepare for my first class. The school is a mix of old and new, with traditional Vietnamese architecture blended with modern facilities. The students, dressed in their crisp uniforms, are already gathered in the courtyard, chatting and laughing with one another. There’s a sense of excitement in the air, as they anticipate the day’s lessons and activities.
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Morning Classes
My teaching schedule typically starts at 8:00 AM, with a mix of different classes throughout the morning. I teach English to students of various age groups, ranging from primary school children to high school students. Each class presents its own set of challenges and rewards.
For the younger students, the focus is on building basic vocabulary and conversational skills through interactive activities like games, songs, and storytelling. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and their eagerness to learn makes every lesson enjoyable. However, keeping their attention can be challenging, especially when they’re full of energy. I’ve learned to be patient and creative in finding ways to keep them engaged.
With the older students, the lessons are more structured, focusing on grammar, reading comprehension, and writing skills. They’re more disciplined but also more self-conscious about speaking English. Encouraging them to participate in discussions and practice their speaking skills is a key part of my role. It’s rewarding to see their confidence grow over time, as they become more comfortable expressing themselves in a foreign language.
10:00 AM: Break Time
Around 10:00 AM, we have a short break. The students rush out to the playground, while I take a moment to relax in the teachers’ lounge. This is a good time to catch up with my colleagues, both local and foreign, and exchange stories about our classes. The camaraderie among the teachers is one of the things I value most about my job. We support each other through the challenges and celebrate each other’s successes.
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break
After the morning classes, we have a long lunch break, which is a common practice in Vietnam. I usually head out to a nearby eatery or street food stall to enjoy a hearty Vietnamese lunch. Dishes like com tam (broken rice with grilled pork), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), or goi cuon (fresh spring rolls) are my go-to options. The variety and freshness of Vietnamese cuisine never cease to amaze me, and I make it a point to try something new whenever I can.
The lunch break is also a time to unwind and recharge for the afternoon classes. Sometimes, I take a short nap, which is a common practice among the locals. This mid-day rest helps me stay energized for the remainder of the day.
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Afternoon Classes
The afternoon is a continuation of teaching, with more classes to handle. The students can be a bit more tired in the afternoon, so I try to make the lessons as engaging as possible. I incorporate a lot of interactive activities, such as group work, role-playing, and presentations, to keep them active and involved.
One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching in Vietnam is the opportunity to be part of a cultural exchange. As much as I teach my students about English and Western culture, they also teach me about their traditions, festivals, and way of life. It’s a mutual learning experience that enriches both my teaching and my understanding of the world.
3:30 PM: Wrapping Up the Day
By 3:30 PM, the school day is winding down. I take some time to reflect on the day’s lessons, make notes for future classes, and prepare any materials I’ll need for the next day. The students start to head home, waving goodbye and shouting “See you tomorrow, teacher!” as they leave. It’s a heartwarming moment that reminds me why I love this job.
4:00 PM: Heading Home
After a fulfilling day at school, I head back home. The evening traffic is usually lighter than the morning rush, making the ride back more relaxed. Once home, I take some time to unwind. This might involve reading a book, watching a movie, or catching up with friends and family back home through video calls.
6:00 PM: Exploring the City
Evenings in Vietnam offer a great opportunity to explore the local culture and lifestyle. The city comes alive with street markets, food stalls, and bustling nightlife. I often meet up with fellow teachers or local friends for dinner. We might go to a local restaurant to try some new dishes or simply grab some street food and enjoy it by the riverside.
Vietnamese cities have a unique charm in the evenings, with colorful lanterns lighting up the streets, the aroma of street food filling the air, and the sound of traditional music playing in the background. Whether it’s exploring a new part of the city, attending a cultural event, or just enjoying a quiet walk, there’s always something to do.
8:00 PM: Lesson Planning and Preparation
After dinner, I spend some time preparing for the next day’s classes. Lesson planning is a crucial part of teaching, and I try to create lessons that are not only educational but also engaging and fun for the students. This is also the time when I review the progress of my students and adjust my teaching strategies to better meet their needs.
The Challenges: Adapting to a New Culture and Educational System
Teaching in Vietnam comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest is adapting to a new culture and educational system. The Vietnamese approach to education is different from what I was used to back home. There’s a strong emphasis on respect for teachers, rote learning, and academic achievement. Balancing this with a more interactive and student-centered teaching style has been a learning curve.
Language barriers can also be a challenge, especially when communicating with parents or dealing with administrative tasks. While many people in the cities speak some English, there are still times when misunderstandings occur due to language differences. I’ve been learning Vietnamese, but it’s a slow process, and I rely on my colleagues and students to help me navigate these situations.
The Rewards: Personal Growth and Cultural Immersion
Despite the challenges, the rewards of teaching in Vietnam far outweigh the difficulties. One of the greatest rewards is the personal growth that comes from stepping out of my comfort zone and immersing myself in a new culture. Living and working in Vietnam has taught me to be more adaptable, patient, and open-minded.
Another reward is the deep sense of fulfillment that comes from making a positive impact on the lives of my students. Watching them grow, improve their English skills, and gain confidence is incredibly gratifying. Knowing that I’m contributing to their future success is a reward in itself.
Finally, the opportunity to experience Vietnam’s rich culture and warm hospitality is something I cherish. From celebrating traditional festivals like Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) with my students to exploring the country’s stunning landscapes, every day in Vietnam offers a new adventure and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
A day in the life of a foreign teacher in Vietnam is a unique blend of routine and discovery, challenges and rewards. It’s a journey of cultural immersion, personal growth, and meaningful connections with the students and the community. Every day brings new experiences, from navigating the bustling streets of the city to witnessing the growth of eager young minds in the classroom. The challenges are real, but so are the rewards, making this journey one of the most enriching experiences of my life.
Ready to embark on your own teaching adventure in Vietnam? SchooPed can help you find the perfect teaching job to match your skills and aspirations. Explore a wide range of opportunities on SchooPed and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in this beautiful country.