by Nataly Huyhua
At the core of Wesleyan University, a remarkable initiative led by Khai Tran, Wesleyan’s
academic support coordinator, and Diana Tran, a passionate second-year student, stands as a
beacon of cultural celebration and community. The establishment of a Vietnamese Language
Table, serving as a gathering for students to engage in conversation and immerse themselves in
the Vietnamese language and culture, not only bridges linguistics gaps but also nurtures a sense
of community among students.
Khai and Diana first crossed paths at a class dean event, where their shared Vietnamese
heritage and Californian backgrounds sparked their initial conversation. It was during this
conversation that they both recognized the absence of a dedicated space for the active practice
and utilization of the Vietnamese language. This realization became the catalyst for their shared
vision: to create a welcoming environment where Vietnamese-speaking students, whether native
or heritage learners, could come together to share, practice, and learn about the Vietnamese
language and culture.
Every Monday, from 12 to 1:30 pm in Usdan 114, these conversation lunches thrive as a
dynamic space for students to delve into an array of topics. These gatherings host a broad
spectrum of dialogues, spanning from casual conversations about daily life to in-depth
explorations of Vietnamese culture and its dialects, which include Northern, Central, and
Southern variations. When asked to recall a memorable moment from the conversation lunches,
Diana shared a heartwarming experience in which they called their parents and together explored
the different Vietnamese dialects, uncovering the unique distinctions that enrich the language.
Diana described this as a touching moment, emphasizing how they also wanted to show their
families that they’ve found a community. Another memorable moment, shared by both Diana
and Khai, involved learning how to read a poem written in Vietnamese, which provided a unique
opportunity for those unfamiliar with the script to learn and actively participate. These anecdotes
highlight the profound sense of connection and cultural exchange that characterizes these
conversation lunches, where not only language skills flourish but also a strong sense of
community.
As for the future, Khai and Diana have plans to revive the Vietnamese Students
Association, with exciting events and activities in the pipeline. So, stay tuned for more events
and developments from this amazing duo, and let’s celebrate the beauty of language and culture.
