On the afternoon of January 17, 2026, setting aside modern diplomatic theories, the student delegation of International Relations, class QH22-24, embarked on an emotional "journey back in time." Today's destination included two iconic landmarks that preserve the soul and tragic memories of the nation.
Students taking a commemorative photo at the National Museum of History - Photo taken and compiled by the Faculty Media Team
The first stop was the National Museum of History. Here, the students were truly overwhelmed by the system of 29 exhibition rooms, fully recreating the ups and downs of the nation's history. The tour was like a slow-motion film, taking the delegation from the days of the first struggle against French colonialism to the energetic second resistance period. Notably, standing before the paintings depicting history, President Ho Chi Minh's call for national resistance seemed to echo in their ears: "Those who have guns use guns. Those who have swords use swords, those who have no swords, use hoes, spades, or sticks." That immortal statement ignited the heroic flame, the spirit of "deciding to die for the Fatherland to live" of our forefathers. Continuing the emotional flow, the delegation traversed the glorious years of the resistance against America to save the nation and closed the journey at the brilliant milestones of the renovation era.
Students listening attentively to the tour guide - Photo taken and compiled by the Faculty Media Team
Leaving the museum space, the delegation moved to the Hoa Lo Prison Relic. Stepping through the heavy iron gate into the detention area, historical stories were gradually unraveled. From the shocking Hanoi poisoning incident of the past to the years of "living through bombs and bullets," this place imprisoned countless patriotic soldiers. But what moved the delegation most was not the harshness of the shackles, but the light of faith. In the darkest prison cells, national flags were still secretly hung, revolutionary slogans were passed around, turning the prison into a school to forge the will to fight.
Especially for International Relations students, the phase of "reconciliation and cooperation" displayed at the relic brought many valuable reflections. It is a vivid testament to closing the painful past to open the door to peace and development. The journey ended at the Memorial, where teachers and students bowed respectfully, lighting incense to express gratitude to the excellent children who fell for independence and freedom.
The field trip delegation taking a commemorative photo at Hoa Lo Prison - Photo taken and compiled by the Faculty Media Team
More than just a visit, today was a necessary "low note" for each student to reflect on themselves through emotional shares:
Standing before artifacts stained by time, Thanh Truc - a 2nd-year student reflected: "Before, I only learned history through dry numbers, but today, touching the past, I can truly 'feel' the intense vitality of the nation. Our nation has gone through so many ups and downs to reach the position it has today, that is a pride that any future diplomat needs to remember."
As for Duc An, the experience at Hoa Lo was a meaningful and profound one: "Stepping into the dark prison cell, I felt breathless. But when I knew the veterans still maintained their faith and learned right in prison, I felt my own troubles became so small. It felt like my spirit was 'recharged'. Looking at the almond tree still growing strong in the middle of the prison, I admire the intense vitality of our Vietnamese people even more - resilient and unbreakable."
A corner of the exhibition at Hoa Lo Prison - Photo taken and compiled by the Faculty Media Team
Closing the journey on January 17, the baggage that the internship delegation brought back is not only knowledge but also deep gratitude. Going through the pains of Hoa Lo, we realize the value of peace. Fully understanding the depth at the Museum of History, we have enough confidence to step out into the big sea. That is the most solid foundation for the young generation to follow in the footsteps of their fathers, to protect and build the country in the new era.
Implemented by: Faculty Media Team
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"FOLLOWING THE NORTHWARD PATH" is a series of articles updating information and images about the 2026 domestic Field Trip program for students of class QH22-24, International Relations major, Faculty of History and International Relations, implemented by the Faculty Media Team. |
