Student to Lecturer: Success Begins with Self-Understanding

Returning to the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam as a visiting lecturer, Ms. Hoàng Thị Thu Trang—a graduate of Cohort 42, English Language Department—shares a story that is not just about teaching, but also about perseverance, self-discovery, and the ongoing journey of self-betterment.

At 18: Choosing a Path Called "Diplomacy"

At eighteen, many of us are filled with uncertainties, doubts, and dreams that have yet to take shape. Ms. Hoàng Thị Thu Trang was no exception. Drawn to the Diplomatic Academy by its reputation—a place where students are encouraged to not only gain knowledge but also grow as individuals—she made her decision.

When she first stepped through the Academy's gates, she felt a little out of place. Surrounded by brilliant peers—eloquent speakers, confident presenters, and leaders in extracurriculars—she often questioned her place. But it was precisely that environment that pushed her forward. Once a reserved high school student with limited experience in activities outside the classroom, she gradually stepped out of her comfort zone and became more proactive and engaged. "The Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam gave me the opportunity to grow in a positive direction, to find a better version of myself," she shares.

A Defining Chapter of Youth

Looking back on her university years, what Ms. Trang cherishes most isn't the grades or theoretical coursework, but the Academy’s enduring educational philosophy: holistic development and the nurturing of potential.

She holds special admiration for the faculty—experts in their fields and passionate mentors—who inspired her to return and continue their mission: training and cultivating high-quality human resources. She recalls that back in high school, her listening skills in English were quite limited, partly due to a lack of effective learning strategies. But during her time at the Academy, her professors introduced her to techniques that significantly improved her listening proficiency. “That became a turning point—it equipped me with both skills and confidence for my future career. And now, I get to teach those same skills to my own students,” she reflected.

Returning to Lead – From Learner to Torchbearer

Like many young graduates, Hoàng Thị Thu Trang went through a period of career exploration. “But my time at the Academy made me realize one of my strengths—my ability to convey and guide others. After gaining experience teaching at English centers, I knew that education was the right path for me,” she shared.

Returning to the Academy as a visiting lecturer in the English Language Department marked more than just a career milestone—it was an emotional homecoming. From once sitting quietly in class, she now stands at the podium, sharing knowledge and lived experience. “Teaching isn’t just about delivering lessons; it’s a calling. I see it as my mission to help young people discover and nurture their own potential,” she said.

One journey ends to begin another. And in every journey, what Ms. Trang values most is the importance of knowing oneself:

"Explore your strengths, and don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone. Make the most of your time at the Academy—study deeply, experience widely. That’s how you’ll uncover what you’re good at. When your career aligns with your strengths, in any field, you’ll thrive and never regret your choice. Know yourself, trust yourself, and stay committed to the path built on your own strengths."

Ms. Trang’s story isn’t one of shortcuts or fixed formulas for success. It is a testament that every step—whether tentative or bold—holds its own value. What matters is whether those steps align with who we truly are, and whether we understand the aspirations and capabilities within us. Because when we truly know ourselves, even the smallest effort contributes to a meaningful and fulfilling journey.