From the Diplomatic Academy to One of Vietnam’s Leading Law Firms: The Steady Journey of an International Law Graduate

Through persistent learning, proactive networking, and a fearless spirit of challenge, Nguyễn Thế Hoàng — a graduate of Cohort 40, International Law faculty at the Diplomatic Academy — has gradually secured his place at one of Vietnam’s top law firms. His story affirms that the Diplomatic Academy is not only a training ground for diplomats but also an ideal environment for young people pursuing a legal career to develop critical thinking, build resilience, and steadily establish their position in a highly competitive legal field.

The Path from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam to VILAF

In an interview, Thế Hoàng shared that his reason for choosing the Diplomatic Academy was quite simple: “Back then, I applied to the Academy and chose International Law mainly because I thought it was an international-focused school, involved a lot of English, and studying law would open many opportunities after graduation. But the more I studied and engaged with specialized subjects, the more I realized law is a fascinating field, not as dry as many think. Being able to study materials taught abroad directly and to openly discuss and debate legal issues under the guidance of academically experienced professors was the most impressive and cherished part of my time at the Academy.” This unique academic environment opened a deeper, more committed path for him in law.

When asked about his fondest memories at the Academy, he smiled: “There were so many. But probably the academic competitions and extracurricular activities stand out. I participated in many moot court competitions and found them to be excellent environments to hone skills in legal research, argumentation, logical thinking, and specialized English. These also greatly inspired my passion for dispute resolution. Through competitions, I gained close friends and teammates, traveled abroad, and met international students.” He also joined the Scientific Research Club, where he experienced writing academic articles in the legal field—an important activity typical of foreign law programs.

Graduating in 2017, Thế Hoàng now works at VILAF — one of Vietnam’s leading law firms specializing in commercial dispute resolution. His current work mainly involves advising and representing clients in domestic and international arbitration and Vietnamese courts.

His entry to VILAF came through the GES (Globalized Era Scholarship) program—a scholarship for law students sponsored by major Vietnamese law firms—and a bit of chance: “One day while interning at another company in the same building, I met VILAF’s Office Manager. She recognized me from the GES program and asked if I wanted to work at VILAF. I had already known about VILAF from a senior who worked there, so I applied immediately.” Early exposure to real legal practice helped him discover his love for the legal profession in general and dispute resolution in particular. However, staying and growing in a professional, high-pressure law firm environment required continuous effort. “At first, I realized international law graduates, who focus more on public law, needed to spend extra time learning private law to work in commercial law firms.”

During his first two years as a trainee lawyer, Thế Hoàng rotated across several specialized teams. Each team offered a unique perspective that helped him deepen his legal knowledge, better understand practice areas, and find the field he wanted to pursue long-term. After this exploration, he chose to focus on dispute resolution. Today, he describes his work as a journey full of learning and growth—a place where he feels fit and authentic within a professional environment.

A Message for the Next Generation: Broaden Your View, Build Your Network

As someone deeply committed to the International Law student and alumni community, Thế Hoàng often returns to the Academy to support moot court teams, offer career advice, and accompany students on their academic journey. He hopes to contribute to building a strong Diplomatic Academy alumni network where everyone can connect, share experiences, and support each other professionally and personally.

According to him, “The biggest challenge for International Law students pursuing legal practice today isn’t ability but rather a lack of information about the legal market, unclear career guidance, and a lack of real-world networking.” That’s why he strongly supports the formation of an official alumni network where young people can connect with former students, access information, and receive clearer guidance from those who have gone before them.

He also candidly acknowledges that International Law students switching to private law often need time to adjust. But this barrier is entirely surmountable. He believes Diplomatic Academy students have an advantage in self-learning, critical thinking, systematic problem-solving, and legal English—foundations vital for accessing any legal field, especially cases involving foreign elements. To maximize these advantages, he advises students to focus on their studies, actively participate in competitions and academic activities, and especially seek opportunities to connect with law firms and seniors. These small but deliberate steps will open many doors in the future.

From an International Law student, Nguyễn Thế Hoàng has gradually asserted himself in commercial law—a path not easy but marked by courage. His story proves that International Law students can break through if they dare to try, learn, seek opportunities, and build their own roadmap. Beyond a personal journey, his insights are a sincere message for future generations: start from the first bricks, however small but solid, and you will build your own unique career path.