Grow and glow globally – embracing spring in Boston winter

What started as a goal on paper transformed into months of growth, connection, and self-discovery in one of the world’s most inspiring student cities.

RMIT opened a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me as a semester exchange student at Northeastern University in Boston. With the university’s support and global network, I found myself navigating a new city easily, immersing myself in a new culture, and living a lively version of myself abroad.

Finding warmth in a winter storm

Never in my life had I seen snow, and the first moment stepping out of Logan Airport felt like being put into an ice cube. I was freezing, physically and emotionally. I arrived in Boston shy, introverted, and unsure how to navigate life in a new environment. Everything felt unfamiliar, yet somehow full of potential. I didn’t know it at the time, but that winter storm would mark the beginning of a profound transformation.

What began as isolation quickly turned into a new connection. A simple chat about the weather with a fellow exchange student became my first conversation in Boston. That small moment of warmth helped me break the ice, not just with others but with myself. From there, I began to join club activities, group projects, and eventually, larger workshops and conferences. I started stepping out of my comfort zone, one conversation at a time. 

My Orientation Day with fellow exchange students at Northeastern — the beginning of our unforgettable journey in Boston

Driving innovation in the City of Knowledge

Academically, Boston was a powerhouse, and Northeastern University, with its renowned technology program, stood out as one of the leaders in AI innovation. Attending workshops at the Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex (ISEC)’s stunning glass-and-steel hub, I witnessed research that brings AI, robotics, health, and sustainability together to foster collaborative innovation. Right next to it, the EXP building where I spent most of the time designing projects expands this vision with state-of-the-art labs, maker spaces, and experiential learning zones designed to turn bold ideas into real-world impact. 

Inside Northeastern’s EXP building, where bold ideas are transformed into real-world innovations through experiential learning.

Amidst all the new experiences and excitement of navigating a new country, from cultural experience to academic life, somehow, I didn't feel overwhelmed. RMIT’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning laid the groundwork for me to confidently explore the intersection of technology, business, and society. RMIT’s academic environment has equipped me not only through valuable academic initiatives but also through a wide range of global leadership learning opportunities. I’ve attended the Big Industry Challenge program, which prepared me with interpersonal skills in problem-solving, interpersonal growth, and networking. During Career Festival 2024, joining RMIT’s International Industry Learning Tour in Singapore, I learnt a lot about how to navigate a new cultural scene and engage professionally with industry leaders.

These experiences laid a strong foundation for me to fully engage in one of the most memorable academic events I attended at Northeastern, the Student Research Expo on Emerging Markets. Hearing students from globally present research on economic, social, and technological shifts, especially panel discussions from technology experts discussing AI’s role currently, was very inspiring and transformative. I wasn’t just learning about global trends but also beginning to see my place in shaping them for future businesses.

Attending the CEM Student Research Expo, where I explored the role of AI in emerging markets and connected with inspiring global minds from Northeastern students, lecturers and industry leaders.

It was eye-opening for me to learn about how AI can be positioned as the catalyst for sustainable development in every field or process, from enhancing public service delivery and optimizing business processes to driving advancements in education and healthcare. These discussions significantly broadened my academic perspective and deepened my interest in the intersection of technology and socioeconomic progress. Engaging with peers and experts at the forefront of this field allowed me to critically reflect on my future role, not merely as a learner of change, but as an active contributor to it.

Finding beauty in art around the city

Beyond the intellectual spark, I also began to pay attention to how Boston nurtured not just innovation, but inspiration. The city itself became a canvas for curiosity. As I settled into life in Northeastern, I found beauty not only in the lectures and classrooms but in the city itself. Wandering through the Charles River Esplanade, the still waters reflecting the city skyline put me in awe every time I passed by. While academics shaped much of my exchange experience, what truly moved me was Boston’s seamless connection between art and intellect. I found myself drawn not just to classrooms and conferences, but also to museums, galleries, and public installations scattered throughout the city. In the middle of intense assignments and fast-paced workshops, the art masterpieces that reside in the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum reminded me to pause and appreciate beauty.  That blend of art and science made the city feel both intellectually vibrant and deeply human.

Inside the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum — where I found art, stillness, and beauty in the heart of the city.

Getting around Boston, the sustainable way

This harmony between knowledge and creativity followed me everywhere — even as I moved through the city itself. One of the most charming things about Boston is how naturally it encourages sustainable living. The city is incredibly walkable, compact yet rich with character, where every stroll feels like a journey through history. Whether I was walking along the Boston Common, to Downtown Boston, or between campus buildings, I rarely felt the need for a car. The city’s layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and that simplicity fosters a deeper connection with the environment and the community. It’s a place where the old-world charm of brick alleys blends seamlessly with green spaces and urban innovation.

Exploring Quincy Market on a misty afternoon — a vibrant blend of history, culture, and Boston cuisine.

When I wasn’t walking, I was riding the MBTA, Boston’s public transit system that locals affectionately call “the T.” From my first nervous ride on the Orange Line to confidently navigating transfers across town, the T became my lifeline and one of my favourite parts of the city. Affordable, efficient, and surprisingly character-filled, it gave me access to everything, museums, campuses, cafes, and riverside parks. I also loved the Bluebikes stationed all around the city. On sunny days, biking along the Charles River or through the Back Bay felt like the perfect blend of freedom and sustainability. Through sustainable travelling, I learn how to live lighter, move smarter, and appreciate the rhythm of a city built for people and nature.

Tips for future exchange students

Looking back, I realise that my exchange journey wasn’t just about academics or travel – it was about growth. From the moment I stepped into the unknown, I was constantly learning how to adapt, connect, and thrive in unfamiliar settings. RMIT gave me the foundation, confidence, and global pathways to make that possible. What started as a bold step outside my comfort zone became a powerful chapter of self-discovery and a reminder that growth truly happens when you allow yourself to glow, even in unfamiliar places.

A new connection can grow from a simple hello. Try to break out of your comfort zone, and you might be surprised by how many people you’ll get familiar with. Sometimes, the first step to building meaningful friendships is simply starting the conversation.

Attending local sports events and immersing yourself in the local culture! I went to ice hockey, basketball, and baseball games during my time there. It’s one of the best ways to connect with the local student spirit and experience culture beyond academics. Whether you know the rules or not, energy and excitement are contagious.

Cheering at Boston Red Sox baseball game, soaking in local life and sport spirit beyond the classroom.

Finally, let yourself be surprised. Growth doesn’t always come in lectures; sometimes, it comes in snowstorms. Sometimes, unexpected moments might become the most transformative ones, so stay open, curious, and ready to embrace the unknown. And set your sights high, because the journey itself may lead you to grow and glow in a way even greater than what you first imagined. As people usually say, aim for the moon and you may find yourself land among the stars.

Story and photo: Nguyen Phuc Quynh Nhu, a Business student at RMIT Vietnam. This article does not reflect the views of RMIT Vietnam.

08 July 2025

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