Where I Found Myself
Sharing from Phạm Nhật Minh – Business Administration student, College of Business and Management
I began my journey to VinUni with a lot of curiosity, and a little hesitation as well. The very first thing that convinced me was the enthusiasm and dedication of the admissions team. They didn’t just support me throughout the application process; they genuinely took the time to understand my story, my dreams, and my direction. That made me feel valued and more confident in my decision.
The second reason I chose VinUni was the major I truly loved: Hospitality Management. As I researched further, I learned that the program was led by Professor Rohit Verma, a leading expert who had previously taught at the prestigious Cornell University. His presence was the clearest proof of the program’s quality. It reassured me that although VinUni was still young, its educational foundation was truly worth investing my time and effort in.
With all of that in mind, I decided to place my trust in VinUni. And looking back now, I can say with confidence that it was absolutely the right decision.
On my very first day at VinUni, I immediately felt a clear difference as if I had stepped into a completely new space, filled with both opportunities and challenges. I still remember the nervousness and uncertainty I felt when meeting my classmates and professors for the first time. Yet from those early classes, I realized that this was not just a university, but a home, a place that offered not only knowledge, but also the space to grow, to rise, and to truly find myself.
Those early days were far from easy. I had to adapt to a new learning style and teaching methods that were completely different from anything I had experienced before. There were moments of exhaustion – late nights, stressful exams – that left me feeling uncertain and doubting myself. But one thing stood out clearly: no matter how difficult things became, I always felt supported and encouraged by my professors, friends, and those around me. They believed in me and created a learning environment where I felt safe to push beyond my limits.
I still remember my first time participating in the VinFuture event as part of the support team for international scientists. I was faced with a very intense situation—things weren’t fully prepared, tasks came unexpectedly, and there was no clear guidance. Instead of panicking, I chose to step up and lead the team through the challenges. In those moments, amid sleepless nights and difficult decisions, I felt myself growing stronger. No one needed to say it out loud; I knew I was on the right path. Over time, I came to realize that challenges themselves are opportunities for growth. VinUni didn’t just teach me academic knowledge; they taught me perseverance, courage in the face of difficulty, and the ability to stand firm through challenges. I learned not only how to work in teams and under pressure, but also how to lead, how to share, and how to care for others.
One of the things I am most proud of throughout this journey is founding the VinUni Choir in 2021. What makes me especially happy is that by the time I graduated in 2024, the choir was still thriving and continuing to grow. VinUni Choir is not just a music club; it is a community, a place where students who love the arts, even without professional training, can come together to practice and perform at major university events. For me, creating a space where individuals can grow and shine in their own way is the greatest value I hoped to contribute. Even more meaningful is seeing future generations continue to preserve and develop the choir after I graduated. It truly feels like a gift I’ve left for the university community, and watching it continue to grow fills me with happiness and pride.
When I look back on my time at VinUni, what makes me most proud is the feeling that “I belong here.” Every time I look at my CV, I proudly write “VinUni student”, not just as a line of information, but as a mark of identity and pride that I carry with me. Whenever someone asks, “Which university do you study at?” or “What’s your major?”, and I answer “VinUni,” I often see a hint of surprise and admiration in their eyes. They see it as a symbol of a bold choice, a rigorous academic environment, a place believed to be accessible only to the most capable or well-supported students. But I know it’s not just the name VinUni; it’s also about me, about what I’ve contributed and experienced here.
For me, as a Cohort 1 student of VinUni, that sense of pride is even stronger. I understand that this is a special community, the first generation, the ones who helped shape the school’s foundational values. That uniqueness comes not only from the academic environment, but from the people themselves. Every member of Cohort 1 carries a unique story and distinctive qualities. Looking back, I realize that each of us is an essential piece, coming together to build the VinUni we see today.
As we prepare to enter 2025, I would like to send my warmest wishes to the entire VinUni community: faculty members, staff, students, and parents. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to our professors and staff for their quiet sacrifices and tireless efforts in creating such an exceptional environment for learning and growth. You are the ones who make the real difference, and an invaluable source of inspiration for students. To my fellow students, I hope you continue to uphold and carry forward the precious values that VinUni represents. Keep striving, keep growing, not only to be proud of your personal achievements, but also to elevate VinUni’s image in the eyes of society. Every step you take forward is also a step forward for the University.
