FTHM.TALK: American students group together with UEFers discover culinary cultures

DECEMBER 20, UEF welcomed the international students group from the University of Arkansas (U.S.A) to join the special workshop of FTHM.TALK: Gourmet Journeys: Coffee, Chocolate, Cuisine & Culture held by the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management. Coming to the workshop, students from both parties together discovered the connection between different drinks and cultures, in the meantime experiencing the brewing process and tasting the distinct flavors of chocolate and coffee.

  UEF welcomes the international students group to exchange and discover the coffee culture

Participating at the workshop, students got to hear sharing from Prof. Dr. Eroc Jose Olmedo Panal - Director of UEF International Institute, Dean of Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Mrs. Thao Quynh -  Founder & Owner of Lala Coffee & Tea. Representing UEF and Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management to observe the workshop included: Dr, Do Huu Nguyen Loc - Vice President of UEF, Ms. Nguyen Viet Thuy - Deputy Dean of Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Ms. Nguyen Lan Chi - Dean of Faculty of Hospitality Management, Ms. Tran Thi Bich Duyen - Lecturer of Faculty of Hospitality Management. On the other party’s side, the workshop witnessed companion of Mr. Kevin Thacker - Consultant of M&K Tourism and Culture Exchange together with Mrs. Thanh Tram - Barista Expert from University of Arkansas.

                       International students excited about the theme of FTHM.TALK 

The program began with a lecture about the origin and history of coffee, one of the most favorite drinks around the world. The students shared that coffee originated from Ethiopia, connected with the legend of Kaldi. Mrs. Thao Quynh introduced two of the world’s most famous coffees, which are Arabica and Robusta, while giving information about the coffee harvesting process, especially standard coffee picking techniques. 

In addition, the students also got to know about the outbreak of the coffee industry in the 17th century, when coffee trade began to expand. The speakers shared about the drastic changes in the current coffee market and the importance of coffee in cultural life. Mr. Eric Olmedo gave detailed explanation about the special features of Viennese coffee together with the history of coffee trade throughout centuries. 
 

                         Experts take turns present the stories of coffee and chocolate

One of the interesting topics discussed at the workshop was the health benefits that coffee brings. The speakers pointed out that drinking coffee annually can lower the risks of some certain diseases and even extend lifespan. Chocolate also plays an important role, especially black chocolate, with the ability to support Antioxidants and support cardiovascular health. 
 

                           Exciting brewing practice guided by professional Barista
Things didn’t just end with words, the students got to practice and experience brewing skills at the workshop. Mrs. Thanh Tram gave instructions on how to make different types of coffee, from Espresso to typical Vietnamese filter coffees. They also learned to make hot chocolate and create attractive drinks from coffee beans.

                                 Memorial gifts handed to American students

This special workshop brought valuable knowledge, helping students experience special cultural values through culinary. In addition, FTHM.TALK also created various learning opportunities for students of both parties, connect with international cultures, prepared for essential skills needed for the Tourism, Hospitality and Restaurant industry. 

We truly believe, after joining the workshop, the students both gained knowledge about chocolate and coffee and restored memorable experiences on the journey of learning and discovering international culinary culture.