An interview with Liên Hà, Supervising Midwife, Hanoi Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital and REI Exchange Fellow
How did you first get to know REI?
My journey with REI began in 2008 when I first heard about them from my younger sister. At the time, she was a student at Hanoi University, where REI conducted semiannual training sessions. She often came home brimming with stories and shared photos of their activities, leaving me deeply impressed by their commitment to education and their ability to inspire young people. Little did I know that years later, I would be fortunate enough to benefit from REI’s mission myself.
Why did you want to do an Exchange Fellowship with REI?
As a midwife at Hanoi Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, I have always believed in the importance of continuous learning and the power of compassion in healthcare. Yet, I could never have imagined how profoundly my life and career would change when I was offered the chance to attend a professional training course in the United States, sponsored by REI. This experience not only expanded my knowledge but also opened my heart to new ways of working, living, and connecting with others.
When I learned I had been selected for a fellowship sponsored by REI, I was thrilled but also nervous. It had always been my dream to receive advanced on-the-job training (OJT) in midwifery, and the opportunity to do so in US hospitals felt almost too good to be true. I was eager to immerse myself in this learning experience and discover the best practices in maternal and infant care.
What was the focus of your Exchange Fellowship? Where did you live and what kind of professional training did you receive?
For five unforgettable weeks, I lived with families in Tennessee and South Carolina. From the moment I arrived, these families welcomed me with open arms, treating me not as a guest but as one of their own. Their kindness and warmth eased my homesickness and gave me the confidence to embrace every aspect of the experience.
The training itself was incredibly enriching. I had the privilege of working alongside dedicated medical staff, observing and practicing advanced midwifery techniques. Some of the practices I learned included the use of tools like peanut balls and the importance of pumping colostrum for newborns in NICU. While some of these techniques are available in Vietnam, witnessing them executed with such precision, care, and love was a revelation. The medical teams demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their work, treating every mother and baby as if they were family.
What was the highlight of your Exchange Fellowship?
My time in the US was not solely about professional development – it was also a deeply personal journey. My American host families made every effort to introduce me to their way of life, ensuring that I experienced the culture and traditions of their country. I celebrated Halloween and prepared Thanksgiving with them, attended church services, and learned about the importance of family gatherings. These experiences taught me the value of gratitude, faith, and community.
How has your training and experience in the US impacted your life and work back home in Vietnam?
One of the most touching aspects of my stay was how much care and respect my hosts showed me. They took the time to understand my preferences, always asking for my input and making sure I felt comfortable. Their actions demonstrated a profound respect for individuality, which has inspired me to bring the same level of respect and empathy into my own practice as a midwife. Bringing it back home upon returning to my hospital, I was
determined to apply what I had learned.
Together with my team, I have worked to introduce several new practices aimed at improving maternal and infant care. For instance, we have begun using balls during pregnancy to help mothers feel more comfortable and to facilitate delivery. We also planned to implement techniques for collecting and delivering colostrum to newborns in NICU, ensuring that even the smallest and most vulnerable babies receive the best possible start in life.
Beyond the technical skills, I have also adopted a more holistic approach to patient care. Inspired by what I witnessed in the US, I strive to treat every patient with the same love and respect that I saw in American hospitals. This means addressing not just their medical needs but also their emotional well-being, ensuring that they feel supported and valued throughout their journey.
A “life-changing experience” looking back during my training in the US was more than just a professional opportunity – it was really a life-changing experience. It showed me what is possible when compassion and expertise come together, and it gave me a renewed sense of purpose in my work.
To anyone considering an exchange fellowship with REI, I cannot recommend it highly enough. This program offers more than just training; it offers a chance to grow as a person, to connect with inspiring individuals, and to make lifelong memories.
I’m thankful REI believed in me and gave me the chance to learn and grow. To my American families and the medical teams who guided me, I am forever grateful for their kindness, support, and encouragement. They not only enriched my career but also my life, and for that, I will always be thankful.
What would you say to someone who is considering an Exchange Fellowship with REI?
Their holistic approach to care left a deep impression on me. They not only focused on the physical well-being of their patients but also provided emotional and psychological support. Whether they were comforting a first-time mother, supporting a grieving family, or celebrating a healthy delivery, their compassion was evident in every interaction. Do something with REI, especially an Exchange Fellowship is the best worth it experience in life.
Beyond professional knowledge, I’ve always had a deep curiosity to learn about everything around me. That’s why I believe no one should turn down an opportunity that can broaden their horizons, connect them with new family and friends, and provide experiences in one of the most developed places in the world. It’s truly a precious gift. Even when faced with challenges or setbacks, I encourage you to persevere, stay focused, and never give up until the very last second. This journey will not only enrich your skills but also your heart and soul in ways you can’t imagine.
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