Dare to Dream, to Act, to Challenge — The Diplomatic Spirit of a Young Woman

Hung-Hoa Nguyen — a former student of International Communication, Class 46 at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, is an exemplary figure embodying the dynamic, dedicated spirit of continuous learning. From her early days stepping into university with the mindset of "the more you know, the better," to her entrepreneurial journey in her late teens and early twenties, Hung Hoa has written an inspiring story of growth, courage, and community-oriented spirit.

Choice as A Turning Point

Resonating with the Academy through DAV Open House, the young woman realzied this was exactly where she belonged. Despite submitting 11 college applications, only one mattered to Hung-Hoa: Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam — Faculty of International Communication and Culture. "If I hadn't been accepted, I would have had to pursue a field of study or environment that I didn't like for four whole years,’ she shared. According to Hoa, that decision was the wisest turning point of her youth. It was here that not only did she learned how to think and communicate, but also embarked on a journey full of growth and challenges, both equally brilliant.

Memories of Remote Learning and Entrepreneurship from Junior Year

Right when she entered university was also when COVID-19 broke out, making her first two years at school completely online—a major challenge for the Communications industry, requiring field work and face-to-face interactions. Yet, she and her classmates’ spirit prevailed. Everyone actively organized events, produced media content, and working through the night — all to hone their skills in the face of adversity.

One of her most memorable experiences was successfully organizing IC Master—the faculty’s flagship competition—entirely online during the height of the lockdown. That same year, her team also launched “IC1D – A Day as a DAV Student,” an initiative that connected and uplifted the student community during one of its most difficult periods. These experiences became her first “school of life”, helping her develop skills and character for entering her profession.

In her third year at the Academy, when the Dean recognized her potential and that of peers in the organizing committee of IC Master, came a major turning point. A bold idea was formed: to establish an agency for Communication for Development — implementing communication campaigns and organizing events for non-governmental organizations and businesses. 

At age 19, Hung-Hoa became the director of a startup: an agency founded by IC students. They operated the agency for 2 years, implementing many impactful projects for social organizations and businesses. Although the team later on decided to pause so each member could focus on their education, working professionally, and gain more experience, for Hung-Hoa that wasn’t the end, but rather a stepping stone for growth. As she shared, given the opportunity, she would still want to return and establish a version 2.0 — where her experiences would become the foundation for more solid steps forward. 

When asked about balancing studies and extracurricular activities, Hung Hoa emphasized prioritization. "I think students struggle with time balance not because they're too busy, but because they haven't clearly identified what's priority. Academic studies must still be the top priority. I dedicate at least 50% of my time to studying, the remaining 50% to activities, hobbies, and learning new skills. When you know what's most important, you'll naturally find balance."

Limitations Are Not Barriers, But Launching Pads

From specializing in Literature to stepping into a competitive environment like the Academy, Hung-Hoa admitted being initially shocked by peer pressure. "I used to think I was good, but coming here, I saw I was surrounded by excellent peers. Some were good at writing, others at organizing events, others at design... That pressure initially made me struggle, but then I learned one thing: If you can't be the best, then learn from those who are better."

It was this spirit of continuous learning and courage to step out of her comfort zone that created Hung Hoa's growth turning point. From an introverted girl, she gradually became bolder when volunteering to be class president, then becoming President of the Volunteer Club, Head of organizing major Faculty activities... These experiences not only helped Hoa perfect her leadership and networking skills, but also paved the way for many major opportunities later, including participating in the Hanoi Festival of Creative Design with international organizations like UNESCO - a connection that was nurtured from when she was organizing IC Master. Looking back on that journey, Hoa concluded: "The more you fear something, the more you must do it. The more you step out of your comfort zone, the more you grow."

From a student who chose the Diplomatic Academy with her whole heart to a young person who dared to start a business, dared to stop to learn, and was ready to start again — Hung Hoa's journey is living proof of a generation from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam who are bold, dedicated, and developing continuously. That journey continues, with the belief that: as long as you dare to dream, have enough perseverance, and are ready to learn, every young person can reach a brilliant future in their own way.

Thu Huyen