Letter from Laos – by Chindavone Sisoulath
Hallo Everyone,
First of all, let me introduce myself. My name is Chindavone Sisoulath, but you can call me Jern. I am a final-year student at the Faculty of Linguistics and Humanities, Department of English, at Savannakhet University in Laos. As I near the end of my university journey, I am determined to make my dreams come true. Studying abroad has always been my biggest goal. This is my third time to applying Erasmus+ scholarship. The first time, I applied to study in Germany. I did not pass. I thought my English skill were not strong enough, but I saw it as a good learning experience. I used this opportunity to improve my English by practicing all four skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. For the second time I applied to study Spain and Italy a gain. I made it to the interview part and still did not succeed. At that moment I told to myself ” You are good to have a great learning experience by step. Do not give up – you have a big dream and keep going, next time will be your turn! ”
By the time I applied again to study in Germany. All my past affords were not hopeless because finally I got it! After applying for third time, I am incredibly grateful to have been selected for Erasmus+ program. This opportunity will allow me to further my education in Karlsruhe, Germany, and gain invaluable Experience.
Now, I am about to take the next big step in my life: continuing my education in Karlsruhe, Germany! I will be attending classes and Lectures about pedagogy and using English as much as I can, I also believe that this experience will help me become more confident in using English beyond university. I plan to learn about German culture, go to some famous landmarks, taste authentic German dishes like pretzels, bratwurst, schnitzel and try activities that I can try such as hiking in Black Forest and cycling in the city. Furthermore, I would like to also network with professors and international students to learn and exchange from them. I am excited to learning in Germany about German culture, academic life, and daily routine in a new environment but I am also a bit nervous about language barriers and transportation. Despite my worries, I see this as a good opportunity for personal and academic growth, and I am eager to make new experiences in Germany.
Beyond personal growth, I also want to use my experiences to contribute to my community in Laos, whether it is by promoting education, helping others improve their English, or sharing cultural and other new experiences.
According to my background: I grew up in Sibounheuang village, Champhone district in a countryside. My family work together to grow rice. Rice farming is a life Laos culture. Rice growing have a lot of details, we take care of the rice plant by ensure that they have enough water and protected. When harvest comes, We cut and dry them. Each year, as I watch the rice grow, I am remined of the effort and teamwork of us. My home has a lot of trees, Including longan, rose apple and custard apple trees. When the fruits ripen, my family and I pick them to eat, Share with our neighbors, or sometimes sell at a small market in our village and probably in other market. Sharing food is a common thing to do in my community. We are happy to give it to other people rather than let it go to waste.
I moved to Savannakhet City to pursue my Bachelor’s Degree in the English Department, Faculty of Linguistics and Humanities. During my studies, I worked part-time at Lin’s Café for one year and seven months. It was an incredible experience! The café attracted many foreigners. I loved to talk with my lovely customers, which gave me valuable opportunities to practise speaking English regularly. This helped me improve my language skills and boosted my confidence. I also made a close friend at Lin’s Café. She is from Australia and she is so kind. Whenever she visits Laos , we meet up. She took a cute photo for me.
While working as an assistant barista, I discovered my love for coffee. I can even make my own coffee now! Cappuccinos and Matcha are my favorites. I enjoy making coffee by myself and experimenting with different flavors.
I also love nature and adventure, especially mountains! At the end of 2024, I had the chance to visit “The Rock View Point” in Thakhek Province with my friends. It was such a wonderful experience, and I am excited to have new mountain adventures in Germany.
This opportunity feels like the adventure of a lifetime. I am excited to step out of my comfort zone, I would be happy to meet new people and immerse myself in new perspectives. I would like to thank the Erasmus+ program and Karlsruhe University of Education and Savannakhet University for making this dream possible. Also thank you to myself for keeping going until I made it and I can’t wait to go to Germany!
Stay tuned for my first experience in Germany- coming up in my next post!
See you soon!
Best regards,
Chindavone Sisoulath
Text by Chindavone Sisoulath
Photos by Chindavone Sisoulath, Somphone Phanthavong, Xihe Xue, Phavady Thisomboun