Teach-in-Hue Summer Program

“I believe that teaching as a means to get in touch with different communities around the world is the easiest and most effective means to begin a global consciousness, and hopefully, a global morality. VIA does great work and often finds inspiring people. I am proud to be a part of that tradition.”

~Albert Chan, 2003 Teach in Hue volunteer

The Teach-in-Hue summer program is one of VIA's most popular programs. Each summer, VIA offers a unique opportunity for American undergraduates and recent graduates to learn about Vietnam through service and volunteerism.

What is it?

A small group of volunteers teaches a summer course in Communicative English and Development Issues for students at the University of Hue, in the culturally and historically rich former imperial capital of Hue. In exchange, volunteers learn about Vietnamese culture, student life and development, while forming bonds that last long beyond the program. The 2010 program will take place from July 5 - August 14.

Who is it for?

The program primarily offers opportunities to American undergraduates and recent graduates, although VIA welcomes all adventurous US adults who can be flexible and work well in a small group setting. Applicants with a demonstrated interest in one or more of the following areas are particularly encouraged to apply: Vietnamese history and culture; volunteerism or service-learning; cultural anthropology; English teaching; non-profit/development work. There is no language requirement or academic prerequisite for this program.

What do volunteers do?

TRAINING AND ORIENTATION: Before departing for Vietnam all Teach in Hue volunteers will participate in two mandatory training conference calls with the Vietnam Program Director to prepare for the program. Upon arrival in Vietnam the volunteers will participate in a one-week orientation in Hanoi and Hue organized by a full-time Summer Program Coordinator (SPC), who also serves as a teaching mentor and liaison with university officials. Orientation consists of general acclimatization, visits to cultural sites and local organizations, meetings with community leaders, reflection sessions, a full day of lesson-planning and teaching practice, and an optional weekend trip. After orientation, volunteers will have a few days to lesson plan before classes commence. Volunteers live in apartments at the University of Hue's international guesthouse, a short walk from classes and student housing.

TEACHING: The summer course at Hue runs for four weeks beginning in mid-July. Volunteers teach 2-3 hours in the morning, Monday through Thursday. Volunteers are given a basic curriculum and suggested activities and lesson plans from previous years' volunteers. The curriculum will include topics that are broadly related to development, such as the environment, education and youth, or health, among others. Volunteers are expected to teach using communicative techniques which allow their students maximum opportunity to practice speaking English. Volunteers are also responsible for organizing weekly activities outside of the classroom, such as English competitions, picnics, or a talent show.

EXPOSURE TO DEVELOPMENT ISSUES: Each week volunteers are introduced to a new development theme through visits to local non-profit organizations. Along with a group of Hue University students, volunteers participate in service projects related to these issues. At the end of the program volunteers and students present what they have learned to the rest of the student participants. Service projects and site visits will influence classroom topics and discussions.

Free time can be spent lesson planning, socializing with students, visiting cultural sites or traveling to nearby cities.

Program Dates: The Teach-in-Hue summer program will run from July 5 - August 14, 2010. Volunteers may travel independently within Vietnam or the greater region at the conclusion of the program.

Program Fee: $2000 ninanguyen1

Program Fee Includes:

In-country cultural and teacher training
Single-entry visa
Emergency medical/evacuation insurance
Local ground transportation
Accommodations
Full-time Summer Program Coordinator and home office support

Program Fee Excludes:

Round-trip airfare to Hanoi
Most meals in Vietnam
Independent travel expenses around Vietnam before, during or after the program

Eligibility: Applicants must be currently residing in the U.S. and speak English with native fluency. Download a 2010 Application.

Questions?: Call or email VIA's Vietnam Program Director, Lillian Forsyth, with questions or ask to be put in touch with current or former volunteers!