When you move to a new country, sticking close to people from your home culture is a natural instinct. But is it a vital safety net or a barrier to your growth? In this episode, Michael Doan sits down with Kim (Trinh Kim Nguyen) and Mia (Nguyen Tran Mai Anh) - both are Vietnamese students pursuing their Masters degrees at National Chengchi University in Taiwan. Kim is from the province of Binh Duong, while Mia is from the province of Nghe An. This is their first time living outside of Vietnam.

Together, they unpack the reality of the "compatriot bubble." From hilarious language barriers and academic culture shocks to late-night surfing trips and learning local slang like Àimèi (曖昧), this episode is an honest look at what it truly means to integrate without losing your roots.

Michael Doan is a graduate student at the International Master's Program in International Communication Studies (IMICS) at National Chengchi University (NCCU).

“Speak Up” is a podcast program by College of Communication students at National Chengchi University in Taipei, Taiwan. Season 1 features student work from the class, “Podcasting: Audio Journalism & Branded Podcasts” in Spring 2026. Supervising teacher is adjunct associate professor Emily Y. Wu.

Music credit: Piano Intro (Piano Intro Logo) by Tolset Music, In a dream by Johnny The Ripper, and Saltines by Podington Bear on Free Music Archive dot org. With additional original music by Nguyên nghiền Ballad.