Starting a New Journey

My name is Vinh, a student majoring in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing at the Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology in Ho Chi Minh City. I am currently undergoing an internship at Lawrence S. Ting Foundation (LSTF) as a Healthcare Administration Intern for over three months. My experiences here have not only provided me with practical skills and valuable knowledge but also opened my eyes to the significance of volunteer work and the connections between people.

Learning and Development

The early days of my internship were not as smooth as I had hoped. Accustomed to busy work environments, working only with my mentor, Ms. Lanh, presented a significant challenge. At times, I felt isolated with the repetitive administrative tasks, and I even considered quitting during my first month.

However, with determination to integrate better into the organization, I began to take on more important responsibilities. In addition to administrative tasks, I participated in meaningful projects like “Wheelchairs of Love,” a program that distributes wheelchairs to the disabled across the country. I also had the opportunity to join the Outreach Services program, organizing free medical check-ups and distributing medications to people in remote areas. Recently, I assisted in organizing Lawrence S. Ting Scholarship Ceremony for over 200 students.

Unforgettable Experiences

The Outreach Services project was particularly rewarding and meaningful. A memorable experience was the medical check-up and medication distribution trip to Dak Gan commune in Dak Mil district, Dak Nong province. Since most of the residents belong to ethnic minorities, I initially felt awkward reading names while distributing medications. I had to seek help from locals to pronounce the names correctly, ensuring the right medications reached the right people.

Unlike my previous trip to Tay Ninh, where I was shy and hesitant, I felt more confident during this journey! I had the chance to sit down and talk with people coming for check-ups. One story that deeply moved me was that of H Nghien, a 14-year-old girl who looked frail and needed regular dialysis. She had to drop out of school in the seventh grade due to her family’s circumstances and health issues. Like most of the people receiving medication and check-ups, she arrived very early, having traveled a long way to reach the site.

Her story stirred mixed emotions within me: I felt pity for her situation, admiration for her resilience, helplessness for not being able to do more, and gratitude for what I have. I also hope that through this article, kind-hearted individuals will learn about her circumstances and extend their help.

Acknowledgments to LSTF

My journey at LSTF is ongoing, and it has become a valuable part of my life, fueling my personal development for the future. I am incredibly grateful to the foundation for providing me with the opportunity to experience meaningful and new things.

I want to thank Ms. Lanh, who always listens and supports my work aspirations. I would also like to express my gratitude to Ms. Phuong and Mr. Cuong, who have supported me throughout my work. Special thanks to the Communications & Marketing team for creating a joyful and comfortable work atmosphere that feels like a second home.

I wish LSTF continued growth to help many more underprivileged people across our beloved country.