Every day, I spent six hours studying grammar and vocabulary and listening to different accents. At first, I was overwhelmed with my tight schedule. However, I am proud and delighted to see my efforts have paid off since now I can discover the magical world of Vietnamese language, culture, and people.
From my observation, many foreigners always want to practice Vietnamese but young people here grab all the chances they get to practice English. Before you can go up to a Vietnamese and ask to practice their mother tongue, he or she may have already spoken to you in English. All you can do is smile and there is no way you can refuse.
I was surprised in the beginning because young people in Vietnam are not like those in other Asian countries that my friends and I have interacted with. They are not shy or hesitant to use English with foreigners.
Nevertheless, if you want to practice Vietnamese with locals, they are happy to help you. I myself still find it amazing when I think about an intimate conversation I had with a bulb seller though 20 minutes earlier we had been strangers. On discovering that I could speak Vietnamese, she confessed many things to me as if we were old friends. Another time, when I was shopping for coats, I got a discount because I bargained in Vietnamese.
After some great experiences with the friendly people here, I wanted to do something for them. I have chosen to work in a coffee shop for a few hours a week to help young Vietnamese practice English. Though I am busy with my studies and work, I am happy to help them.
Many people learn Vietnamese not just for work but also because they have fallen in love with Vietnam. I think I am one of them.