Frequently Asked Questions

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VIET FELLOWS – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (02.24.11)

General Questions

1. How much does it cost to be a fellow? Is there a program or application fee?

There is no cost to be a fellow. We do not charge an application or a program fee. In addition to this, we will cover all expenses incurred as a result of training and participation in the program including transportation, room, and board.

2. Will I have to purchase my own health insurance?

VIET Fellows will provide all participants with emergency travel insurance while they are in Vietnam. While in the US for the educational tour, VIET Fellows will not provide health insurance.

3. Are the dates of the programs flexible?

The dates for the program are firm and participants will need to be available for the duration of the trips in Vietnam. Involvement Fellows will need to be available full-time from June 18 to December 17. Engagement Fellows will need to be available full-time from June 18 to August 4.

4. If I am selected, will I need to be available full-time during the US Educational Tour as well?

No. Each fellow will give a select number of presentations depending on what track they are on. We will work with each fellow to ensure that the presentations fit their schedules, but will need the fellows to commit to the days we select.

5. This program sounds interesting. Are there ways that I can stay involved with the program if I am not selected or not able to go this year?

Of course. If you are unable to be a part of the 2011 Fellowship Class, there are still opportunities to remain involved. If you would like to find out how, contact the VIET Fellows staff.

6. I am currently in the process or applying/renewing my passport.  Can I still apply even though I am unable to submit a copy of my passport?

Yes.  You will need to submit proof that you have submitted your application for a new/renewal passport to us by the deadline date.  If you are accepted into the program, your participation will be contingent on having a valid passport.

7. I have a question that is not answered here.  What should I do?

Contact VIET Fellows staff for more information:

Kelvin Vuong, U.S. Country Program Director, kelvin@aapip.org

Xuan Nguyen, Vietnam Country Program Director, xuan@aapip.org

Involvement Track

1. How do I apply and what is the timeline for applying?

To apply for the Involvement Track, download, complete, and return via e-mail the application by the stated deadline. The application is available online at www.vietfellows.org. The deadline for the 2011 program is 5:00 PM PST, Friday, March 18, 2011.

2. What are the eligibility requirements?

VIET2010 is looking for fellows that are Vietnamese American, between the ages of 23-30, proficient Vietnamese speakers, and passionate about working in the Vietnamese and Vietnamese American community. While Vietnamese fluency is not required, fellows are expected to be proficient in speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.

3. Do I have to have a college degree to apply and be selected?

Applicants do not have to be a college graduate in order to apply or be selected to the program.

4. Is there only one fellowship program traveling this year? Will there be future programs that I can become involved with if not selected or not eligible currently?

Yes. There is only one fellowship program traveling this year. It is our intent that there will be a 2012 program.

5. What will I do while interning in Vietnam?

Fellows will be placed with an organization in Vietnam and will be expected to participate in the direct services provided by the organization as well as support capacity building efforts for the organization.  Fellows will work a standard 40-hour workweek while in Vietnam.  In 2010, fellows helped organizations develop an educational plan for social workers, create organizational guidelines, and assisted in finding job placements for people with disabilities.

6. Will I be trained for this before I go? If so, what type of training will I receive?

All fellows will undergo a week-long training program that will incorporate the following topics: cultural competency, media and reporting skills, technology training, and job training. Fellows will be trained to ensure a good fit with the organization they are paired with.

7. Will I know what organization I am paired with and do I have any say in the matter?

The selection committee will do its best to ensure that the fellows and organizations are matched well. Fellows that are selected will be presented with more information about each organization and their “job descriptions” to ensure a good fit.

8. What type of support will I have during my placement in Vietnam?

VIET Fellows has a Vietnam Country Director that will be in Vietnam throughout the duration of the program.  The Country Director will facilitate the program, conduct weekly check-ins with fellows, and conduct monthly check-ins with the service organization. The Country Director is available should there be any emergency or conflicts.

9. Where will I be staying in Vietnam?  Is it safe?

All fellows will be placed in either a hotel or apartment.  VIET Fellows staff will vet all locations before assigning housing and will be in Vietnam should any changes be necessary.

10. How will I get around in Vietnam?

Travel arrangements will be made to get each fellow to their placement site.  The VIET Fellows staff will arrange ahead of time for the fellow to either take public transportation or have a ride to and from work.  In the past, fellows have also rented bicycles to get around.  We do not suggest that fellows drive motor vehicles while in Vietnam.

11. Will I be able to travel on my own in Vietnam before, during, and/or after the program?

Fellows will have the opportunity to travel while they are in Vietnam.  Fellows will need to get the approval from their supervisor at their service organization and notify VIET Fellows staff of their travel plans.  Travel before the program begins is not advised.  Travel after the program ends is allowed, but health insurance will not be provided for travel outside of the program.  All travel conducted that is not related to the program will be at the liability of the fellow.

Engagement Track

1. How do I apply and what is the timeline for applying?

To apply for the Involvement Track, download, complete, and return via e-mail the application by the stated deadline. The application is available online at www.vietfellows.org. The deadline for the 2011 program is 5:00 PM PST, Friday, March 18, 2011.

2. What are the eligibility requirements?

VIET2010 is looking for fellows that are Vietnamese American, between the ages of 18-23 and passionate about working in the Vietnamese and Vietnamese American community. Fellows in college or recently graduated are preferred.  If you are a graduate student, you are welcome to apply as well.  Fellows are expected to have some language ability in Vietnamese.

3. What will I be doing in Vietnam?

Fellows will be traveling with VIET Fellows staff to explore environmental and health issues in Vietnam. They will travel to sites in and around Saigon, Da Nang, and Hanoi and visit with organizations and individuals. Fellows will also be volunteering with one service organization in Vietnam for one week. All fellows will document their experiences in preparation for the US Educational Tour.

4. What does the average day look like?

On an average day, fellows will visit an organization before having a group lunch.  After lunch, fellows will visit another organization and/or conduct a cultural visit.  At the end of the day, fellows will meet to debrief about their experiences and thoughts.  After the daily debrief, fellows will have free time to explore the city and have dinner.

5. Will I have time to visit family in Vietnam?

There will be several free days during the program in which it is possible to arrange for family visits.  We will be traveling to Saigon, Da Nang, and Hanoi; unfortunately, visits outside of these areas will not be possible during the program.

6. Will I be able to travel on my own in Vietnam before, during, and/or after the program?

Fellows will have the opportunity to travel while they are in Vietnam.  Travel before the program begins is not advised.  Travel during the program will be restricted and requires prior approval from VIET Fellows staff.  Travel after the program ends is allowed, but health insurance will not be provided for travel outside of the program.  All travel conducted that is not related to the program will be at the liability of the fellow.