Valuable Lesson

For Phuong Uyen, failure or success both have certain meanings in the process of growing up.

Diep Pham Phuong Uyen (30 years old, from Ho Chi Minh City) has dreamed of studying abroad since high school. She applied for many programs but did not get the scholarship she wanted or it was not the most suitable time. After graduating from university and working for 5 years, Uyen wanted to gain more in-depth knowledge. She loves research work so she tried to "hunt" for a graduate scholarship.

Every time she attends international events, research projects and introduces "I am Vietnamese" is a source of pride for Phuong Uyen (standing).

Many people think that studying abroad in the US is very difficult, and getting a scholarship or financial aid is even more difficult, especially at the higher education level. But Uyen is living proof that all efforts are worth it: Uyen received 100% financial support for her master's degree in mass communication at Kansas State University and her doctorate in communication and public policy at Louisiana State University. This financial support is called a teaching or graduate research assistantship, which covers most or all of the tuition and provides a monthly stipend.

Phuong Uyen is running many practical social projects promoting studying abroad and developing the media sector for domestic youth.

"I applied for a master's degree during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the US stopped issuing student visas. It wasn't until the end of June that year, when there was only half a month left until I started school, that I had an urgent interview and received my visa just 2 days before my flight. It was a period of many emotions," Uyen said.

Currently, Uyen teaches at the school she is attending, and collaborates with newspapers on international andeducational topics. Uyen has learned and experienced a lot about teaching, especially teaching in English, to American students. Due to differences in culture and journalism - media, she has to observe and research to bring effective teaching methods, providing diverse information to learners.

According to Uyen, luck is not the core factor to achieve the goal. She is grateful to have the support of family, friends, and teachers, but is aware that success only comes when she does her best and has a clear path to strive. Despite having experience working in many places, presenting at international events, publishing scientific articles... Uyen is never subjective but always learning continuously. The times she was rejected for scholarships or research grants... are also considered valuable lessons by her. "The key to opening the door to the world for young people is first of all language, having an open mind as well as understanding of the place they are going to, not only to do good work but also to integrate and protect themselves" - Uyen said. It is expected that in the spring of 2026, Uyen will complete her doctoral thesis.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/bai-hoc-gia-tri-196250607203013211.htm