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GO Student Ambassadors, International Summer Programmes

Meet the GO Ambassador 2026/27 – Fiona Truong

5 October 2026
Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Name: Fiona Truong

School, degree programme and year of study:

School of Optometry & Vision sciences, Master of Optometry, Year 3

Host destination: Nepal

Your experience abroad

Tell us about your global opportunity—where did you go, and what did you do?
I took part in Travelteer’s community development programme in Nepal for 2 weeks. This was a volunteering placement that involved working with rural villages, which we supported with resources supplied with our fundraising money: this included school supplies, toys, water filters, sanitary products etc. We helped create murals in local schools, fill in and paint walls, build a greenhouse and did some teaching.


What surprised you the most about your host country/programme/time abroad?

I definitely miss the group of people I was spending time with in a foreign country. The spontaneity of being able to play card/board games, go for a cheap dinner or do neighbouring activities made for some amazing memories.

What is the one thing you miss about your time abroad?
I loved how welcoming and friendly everyone was, particularly the children I taught. I miss the energy of the classroom, the smiles and laughter, and seeing the children become more confident each day.

A bit about you!

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of your studies?
I enjoy art, badminton and a bit of everything really – I’m a big fan of exploring new hobbies!

What’s your favourite place on campus/in Cardiff?
Perhaps the Lidl bakery section.

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year (a dream destination), where would it be—and why?
For a year, I’d love to live perhaps in a European country, with the ability to interrail to neighbouring countries.

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I’m Malaysian Vietnamese

Reflections and Advice

Describe your global experience in three words
Rewarding, Fulfilling, Thrilling

What advice would you give to students considering a global opportunity?

To do it!