My program consisted of three field trips to two different communities, Soc Son and Hoa Binh (which is Vietnamese for ‘peace’). Our workshops in Hanoi introduced us to the theories and complexities of microfinance programs, while the field trips translated these into practice. This combination allowed us invaluable insights into this area of development and…

Somehow, I have survived my first day in Hanoi. This city is so different to anything I’ve experienced before. Yes, I’d been warned about crossing the street, but nothing can prepare you for the actual experience. It first hit me last night, when we were leaving the airport. I waited at a pedestrian crossing, watching…