Last Day (Until We Meet Again)

The last day was by far the most emotional day in Vietnam. We started the day off right with arbitration simulations led by Mr. Fincher. It was interesting to have a first-hand experience on the proceedings of an arbitration case, and gave us a clearer idea of the expectations of an arbitrator. We had time to complete two cases before we got a break before the farewell party.

At the farewell party, we spent the first half of the session exchanging fond memories and final thoughts. We then split up in groups to collaborate with the TDTU students on how to remain in contact for future visits and friendship. A lot of amazing ideas were thrown out there, but nothing topped Daniel’s spirited idea to buy a communal jet that will transport students to both the United States and Vietnam. We are currently looking for investors. After the brainstorming was complete, we had previously rehearsed YMCA dance moves from Just Dance to perform for the TDTU students. We even bought the University’s gym uniforms to give the performance a nice spark. The TDTU students loved the performance, especially when we pulled in front of the classroom to join in on the chorus with us. Our dance was over, but the TDTU students still had something up their sleeve. They memorized a song to sing for us, and even grabbed us at the end of the song too to join in. The song was in Vietnamese, but we definitely tried our best catch on. 

TDTU students' farewell performance

After the performances, we exchanged gifts with the TDTU students and ourselves, and I received some letters that I’ll never forget. They’re incredible people, and I wish I could show that in more than just a Cornell banner and some pens. Good thing we brainstormed on pen pal ideas!

After the party, we rushed over to a large auditorium to try and catch the labor school’s performance in the traditional dance recital. Some of our friends like Minh Anh and Hoa did an incredible job! We stayed a little longer to see some more performances, and then headed to dinner at a proposed restaurant by Mrs. Vinh. 

Minh An and Hoa performing in the competition

The final dinner

Karaoke

The restaurant and amazing food, and included a hotpot, but the most interesting cuisine I experienced comprised of a boiled, fertilized, quail egg. Not bad!

The night ended with the renowned karaoke experience. Taylor Swift was the star of the selection, but the TDTU student’s cover was way better than the original. They had fruit platters and bottles of water to keep us sustained through the singing. Unfortunately, the night had to end at some point, but no one was prepared to say goodbye. We must’ve hugged everyone at least five times apiece, but I think we all can agree that still isn’t enough. We took a taxi cab home, and a few of us offered to take Nhu home since she lived a few minutes away from the university. It was a great final send-off before heading back to Cornell. — Olivia