Opening of the series of American studies events and the "Exploring America 250" contest at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities

Strengthening Vietnam - US relations through cultural and educational exchanges
The event was attended by Ms. Courtney Beale - Deputy Chief of Mission, US Mission in Vietnam, representatives of the Embassy, ​​leaders of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, lecturers and students from many training institutions across the country. This is one of the important activities contributing to promoting cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries in the context of increasingly developing bilateral relations, especially after the two countries upgraded to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023.
At the opening ceremony, Associate Professor Dr. Dang Thi Thu Huong - Vice Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities emphasized the special significance of the series of events taking place in 2025 - the time when three important historical milestones of Vietnam and the United States converge. The relationship between the two countries has gone through a long journey from conflict to cooperation, from differences to mutual respect and understanding. The development of bilateral relations is clearly demonstrated through extensive cooperation in education, research, and people-to-people exchange - areas in which the University of Social Sciences and Humanities plays a pioneering role.

Ms. Courtney Beale - Deputy Chief of Mission of the US Mission in Vietnam expressed her pleasure in accompanying the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in organizing the contest for students. She emphasized that this activity not only creates an exciting atmosphere but also helps students understand more deeply about the United States in the context of this country preparing to celebrate its 250th anniversary.
According to her, cultural exchange and learning contribute to enhancing mutual understanding and laying the foundation for future Vietnam-US relations, especially when students representing the younger generation will be the ones who will shape bilateral cooperation.

Immediately after the opening ceremony, the student competition called “Exploring America 250” attracted the attention of students from four universities: University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (USSH), Hanoi University (HANU), Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV), Academy of Journalism and Communication (AJC).
The teams went through three rounds: general and in-depth study of the United States; application of historical, cultural and political knowledge; and English speaking on Vietnam-US relations. The contest not only tested knowledge, but also encouraged students to demonstrate critical thinking, analytical and teamwork skills, and fluency in English.
In the end, the Hanoi University team won the First Prize thanks to their outstanding performance in both knowledge and eloquence. The Second Prize went to the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam with their stable performance and good exam strategy. In the Third Prize position, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU and the Academy of Journalism and Communication were both honored, recognizing the efforts and impressive performances of the contestants.
The program's series of activities will be followed by a training course on American Studies for university students and faculty held on December 5-6, 2025.      
University of Social Sciences and Humanities and the journey of more than 20 years of building a foundation for research and training in American studies
Known as the leading training institution in social sciences and humanities in Vietnam, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities has developed the American Studies program since 2003 with the support of the US Embassy and international organizations. In 2004, the Department of American Studies was officially established, responsible for building training programs, expanding research and connecting academics with domestic and international institutions.
For more than two decades, the program has contributed significantly to the formation of the American Studies research community in Vietnam, spreading to many major universities such as the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - VNU-HCM, Hue University, Danang University, Hanoi University, and many other training institutions. In addition to its teaching and research roles, the school is also an important policy advisory unit, with a team of experts knowledgeable about major international partners, including the United States.   The 2025 American Studies Event Series demonstrates the University of Social Sciences and Humanities’ continuous efforts to promote international academic exchanges, contributing to the development of American Studies in Vietnam. The activities, implemented with the support of the US Embassy, ​​are of practical significance, expanding the academic space for students and lecturers, while creating an important foundation for cultural and educational cooperation between the two countries.
As a leading training and research center, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities continues to affirm its role in nurturing a young generation with global thinking, understanding the culture - history - politics of countries around the world, contributing to strengthening the Vietnam - US relationship in the new development period.

Press coverage of the event:
Vietnam News Agency:Launch of a series of events on US studies
Vietnam News Agency - news and photos:https://vnanet.vn/vi/tin-anh/tin-thoi-su-trong-nuoc-1/khoi-dong-chuoi-su-kien-ve-nghien-cuu-hoa-ky-8432369.html
Vietnam News Agency:Vietnamese students enthusiastically participate in the contest to learn about the United States.
Education and Times Newspaper: Promoting Vietnam-US educational exchange
Hanoi Moi Newspaper: Opening of a series of activities on American studies at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities
Policy and Life:Launch of a series of events on US studies