Pharmacy students from Thanh Do University recently completed a memorable field trip to Cuc Phuong National Park, where they had the opportunity to explore, observe, and apply their academic knowledge directly in a real-world natural environment.

For Pharmacy majors, theoretical learning is only half of the journey. The other half, equally essential, is the ability to turn knowledge into practice. To help students reinforce their foundational understanding and enhance professional skills, the Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy organized a two-day field practicum at Cuc Phuong National Park from November 8-9, 2025.

As Vietnam’s first and oldest national park, Cuc Phuong serves as an ideal “living laboratory” for students to explore its diverse ecosystem and abundant sources of valuable medicinal plants native to the northern region.

Pharmacy Students of Thanh Do University Embark on a Meaningful Field Experience at Cuc Phuong National Park

Despite light rain and slippery forest paths, the enthusiasm of Thanh Do Pharmacy students remained unwavering. Every step into the rainforest echoed their excitement to discover and understand medicinal plants in their natural habitat.

Throughout this experiential journey, students had the chance to directly interact with medicinal plant species, turning theoretical lessons into vivid, hands-on experiences. Under the dedicated guidance of faculty members, students worked in small groups to identify, collect, and categorize various medicinal plants growing naturally in the forest. Each plant carried its own “story”, from biological characteristics and pharmacological properties to habitat requirements and its applications in both traditional and modern medicine.

From Raw Materials to Research: Understanding Medicinal Processing

Beyond identification, students deepened their understanding of medicinal uses and processing techniques, from preliminary handling and drying to preservation. These seemingly simple steps require precision, patience, and solid technical knowledge, skills essential to the profession of pharmacy.

Another important component of the field trip was preparing botanical specimens. Students carefully pressed leaves, stems, and entire plant samples, documenting morphological characteristics, colors, structures, and ecological information. These specimen sheets serve not only as valuable study materials but also as evidence of the students’ scientific rigor and respect for nature.

At the end of the practicum, each group completed a comprehensive report, linking textbook knowledge with real-world observations. Through this process, students strengthened their professional foundation and honed critical skills such as observation, analysis, teamwork, and scientific reporting, key competencies for future pharmacists.

More Than a Field Lesson: A Journey of Growth

Beyond acquiring knowledge, the trip helped students build teamwork, strengthen resilience, and nurture a deeper appreciation for their chosen profession. Amid the challenges of the forest and unpredictable weather, they supported one another, learned together, and gained a renewed sense of pride in their path toward becoming healthcare professionals.

The experience may have ended, but it left each student with lasting inspiration, motivation, and a stronger commitment to their studies. Above all, knowledge does not come only from classrooms; it is also “cultivated from the forest,” where passion and learning come together.

Thanh Do University

Address: Km15, National Highway 32, Hoai Duc, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hotline: (+84) 934 078 668 - (+84) 243 386 1601

Website: https://thanhdo.edu.vn/ 

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/truongdaihocthanhdo