Experiencing Hanoi’s startup ecosystem with a NUS student

As part of the NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) program, Ashmita Haldar, a student from the National University of Singapore (NUS), chose Hanoi as her internship destination. She felt fortunate and grateful for the continuous support and companionship from the School of Economics and Management (SEM), Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST).

Where entrepreneurial dream comes alive

For Ashmita, Vietnam was never a random choice. With a strong interest in technology and entrepreneurship in Southeast Asia, she had long been intrigued by Vietnam’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem, especially in Hanoi.

“I chose to pursue an internship in Vietnam because it stood out to me as one of the most exciting and fast-evolving destinations in Southeast Asia for technology and entrepreneurship. Even before arriving, I had been following developments in Vietnam’s IT and startup scene, and it strongly aligned with my long-term goals of working in tech innovation in the region.” shared Ashmita.
  Through the NOC program, she had the opportunity to intern at a startup company while also being an exchange student at HUST. Hoping to immerse herself in a vibrant academic environment, connect with Vietnamese student communities and explore a thriving innovation ecosystem, Ashmita found the experience to be more than she had hoped for:

“I expected HUST to provide me with a dynamic local academic environment, exposure to Vietnam’s tech ecosystem, and opportunities to engage with students beyond the classroom. In many ways, these expectations were met. The open and welcoming environment enriched my time here.”

A highlight of her visit in Vietnam was working hands-on in a tech startup, engaging directly in product development projects. The startup environment provided Ashmita with a realistic understanding of the local market, taught her how to adapt to rapid change, and how to deliver her value in a fast-paced business setting.

Getting to know HUST through... a competition

Alongside her internship, Ashmita actively participated in academic and cultural exchange activities at HUST. One of the most memorable moments for her was joining the HUST x Techcombank Hack <CX> Together Hackathon, where she and fellow students from both HUST and NUS pitched a tech startup idea:

“One of my favorite memories was participating in the HUST x Techcombank Hack <CX> Together hackathon with students at HUST, along with my NUS teammates. It was such an energizing and collaborative experience. The work ethic of the professors and students at HUST truly inspired me,” Ashmita recalled.
  Naturally, joining an exchange program in a foreign country came with many challenges, particularly language barriers and cultural differences. However, thanks to the support from HUST students, Ashmita quickly adapted.

She especially appreciated the Buddy program for international students, a programan program aimedaims to help foreign students connect with local peers, easing their transition into life and study in Hanoi. With the help of new friends, Ashmita was able to explore not only iconic landmarks but also the hidden culinary gems of the city.

Cycling around Hanoi, exploring street food spots loved by local students - these became unforgettable memories for Ashmita:

“These shared experiences helped us form a strong bond beyond just being fellow students. Vietnam wasn’t just a place for studying, it was where I discovered the warmth of human bonds.”

Back in Singapore, Ashmita plans to continue developing startup projects and hopes to return to Vietnam shortly, whether for work, research, travel, or simply just to reunite with her friends.

“I would wholeheartedly recommend HUST to any of my friends considering an exchange or internship abroad. The student culture is friendly and collaborative, the buddy program is incredibly supportive, and you get to be part of a fast-growing, yet culturally rich city like Hanoi. It’s not just a great academic experience, it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and innovation.”

International collaboration programs at Hanoi University of Science and Technology continue to attract students from top global universities including NUS. With an open academic environment, strong institutional partnerships, and a dynamic network of industry partners, HUST is becoming an ideal destination for young people eager to gain practical experience, engage in cultural exchange, and explore Vietnam’s innovative landscape.