We feel fortunate that many of our former students keep in touch after they leave Vinh Son. Clyde Lewandowski, who has led our Education program for many years, often maintains penpal relationships with kids as they graduate and enter the working world. We hope you enjoy this heartwarming letter from Y Mari, who begins an internship in Japan this summer and has her sights set on a career in nursing.


Dear Mr. Clyde,

Thank you so much, Uncle, for your birthday wishes and your thoughtfulness. I always feel warm and grateful when I receive your letters.

I really enjoyed the stories you shared about life. Preparing flowers for spring sounded so beautiful and meaningful, even though the weather is still cold. I hope you'll be able to plant flowers outdoors soon to make the neighborhood even more vibrant. I also found the story about Elliott very special and meaningful. And I'm so happy to know that Connie is recovering better every day.

Here is the answer to your question:

My internship in Japan will last approximately one year, expected to end in early June 2027. During this time, I will work and improve my Japanese skills.

During the internship, the Japanese company will provide accommodation and train fares . Regarding food and personal living expenses, I will cover them myself with my monthly salary from the company, so I do not need any additional financial support .

After completing my internship, I will return to Vietnam to continue my studies and graduate from university. I expect to graduate in July 2027.

After graduation, I plan to return to Japan to work under a Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei) visa. My job title will be a nurse, and my responsibilities will include caring for patients, assisting with daily activities, and monitoring their health.

I arrived in Japan on May 27th. After leaving the country and arriving in a completely new environment, I was initially a little bewildered and anxious. However, luckily, I received very enthusiastic help from the staff and teachers in the group. They guided me through even the smallest things, such as how to buy daily necessities, how to use vending machines, how to get a train card, and how to use public transportation. Thanks to them, I gradually felt more confident and adapted to life here more quickly.

The early days were challenging, especially with the language and lifestyle differences, but I always tried my best to observe, learn, and remember everything. With each passing day, I felt myself growing, becoming more independent, and gaining a better understanding of life in Japan.

Today was especially memorable for me. A friend took me to a church service in Japan. The atmosphere was very peaceful, solemn, and gave me a warm, familiar feeling, even though I was in a foreign country. Everyone in the church was very friendly; they welcomed me with smiles and gentle care, making me feel right at home.

The ceremony not only helped me feel more at peace but was also a very meaningful cultural experience. I had the opportunity to observe the religious practices of the Japanese people, listen to sermons, and feel the connection between people of different countries and languages.

After the ceremony, she also kindly explained many things about life around her, helping her understand more about the place she was living in. She was truly grateful to have met such kind people who were always ready to help her during her first days away from home.

I will continue to strive to learn, train, and adapt better each day so as not to disappoint everyone's expectations. I believe that this journey will help me grow significantly in the future.

Once again, I would like to thank you for your continued concern and for wishing me a bright future. That is a great source of motivation for me.

I wish you and your family good health, happiness, and lots of joy.

Best regards,
Mari