Le Tran Hieu Anh, a student of Environmental Data Science at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, CZU, shares the story of a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) hosted by UniLaSalle in Beauvais, France, a journey that combined cutting-edge virtual-reality training with hands-on exploration of some of Europe's deepest caves.
Hello again, it's me, Le Tran Hieu Anh! I'm studying Environmental Data Science at FŽP ČZU, and honestly, this whole experience still feels like a fever dream. This is the story of our journey into the deepest side of nature.
Virtual reality and deep caves: the UniLaSalle experience
The adventure took a thrilling turn at UniLaSalle in Beauvais, France, where the technology became truly immersive. Before any real-world work, we completed cutting-edge VR training, learning to map physical objects in 3D and turn them into flawless digital models on the computer. But the real highlight? Going completely off the grid, into the belly of the earth.
The depths of Freiburg, Germany
Our first underground expedition took us to a staggeringly deep cave in Freiburg. To reach the study site, we descended a series of vertical ladders, plunging deep into the earth. The reward was unmatched: we saw and physically touched a completely pristine layer of clay spread across the rock — a geological rarity that was incredible to experience. To top it off, we ate lunch entirely underground, surrounded by millions of years of history.
The mysteries of Colmar, France
Our second cave exploration took us to Colmar. Though not as deep as Freiburg, it made up for it with a wonderfully eerie atmosphere and rich history. The cave walls were laced with arsenic, a dangerous poison, yet hauntingly beautiful to look at. Divided into teams, we became real explorers: we mapped the cave system together and debated the geological history and formation of the rocks. Afterwards, we hiked out and had lunch in a wooden shed nestled in the forest, with a beautiful creek babbling nearby, the ultimate explorer vibe.
A beautiful fever dream
Between the theory work and cave mapping, there were breathtaking hikes, stops in picturesque French countryside towns, and plenty of chances to dive into the local cuisine. But, just like before, it was the people who truly made the journey unforgettable. I made lifelong friends from all over the continent, like Konstantin from Austria, Valeria from Romania, and Lana from Croatia. Embracing their diverse cultures, traditions and lifestyles enriched my own perspective in ways I never expected.
Looking back, the whole experience feels completely surreal. I'm immensely grateful, to the universe for this opportunity, and to everyone at UniLaSalle. In this world there is an infinite horizon of possibilities, and I'm so glad this trip was one of them. Wherever my path leads next, I only hope it stays filled with the same spirit of discovery, unique cultures and beautiful connections.
