• Vietnamese people are very proud and try to “save face” as much as possible. As a result, they will often tell you that they understand even when they don’t. Please make sure that when you are trying to communicate with someone that they truly understand you. Asking them to repeat and explain what you just said is one way to accomplish this.

• Your Teaching Assisants (TAs) are fully capable of helping you, but they need to be instructed. If you need them to do something for you please explain it in simple English and give details. They are more than capable when given some guidance. Our TA’s have a quality education, but they sometimes lack experience. They get experience on the job. Please be patient.

• Unfortunately, in Vietnam gossip is as common as a bowl of rice. Please make sure you are not participating in or encouraging gossip. If anyone tries to share gossip with you, politely inform them that you are not interested in hearing it and ask them to stop.

• When receiving an email from your TA be aware that TA’s almost always expect an answer (at least letting them know you received it). If you do not respond they will think you are ignoring them or don’t think what they have to say is important.

• While the title implies they are your assistant, TA’s are actually your partner. You cannot do anything without them, and they can’t do anything without you. You and your TA’s are a team, and you need to interact accordingly.