ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

• Hometown: Dong Hoi, Vietnam
• Class: 2026
• Major(s):  International Studies
• Minor(s): Education; Teaching and Learning; Spanish
• Other Activities, Honors, and Awards:
  • First Generation Student
  • TIE Rep
  • RHA
  • VSA
  • Communications for Student Life
  • Office of Transformational and Inclusive Excellence
  • English Language Learner Writing Center
  • Global Ambassador
  • First-Year Composition Award
  • RedHawk Excellence
  • Murray Sheehan Scholarship 2024
  • Dickinson T. Guiler International Scholar Leader

Why ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú?

As an international student from Vietnam, I was looking for a university that combined strong academic programs, a welcoming community, and opportunities for leadership and personal growth. ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú stood out because of its commitment to undergraduate education, the Scholar Leader Community, and the emphasis on international studies. The university’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives also aligned with my passion for advocacy and social impact.

How did you choose your major?

I’ve always been fascinated by global issues, cultural exchange, and education, so International Studies was a natural choice for me. I knew from the beginning that I wanted to pursue this major, but my minors in Spanish and Education, Teaching, and Learning developed along the way as I deepened my interest in communications and mentorship. My experiences tutoring and coaching students, both in Vietnam and the U.S., reinforced my belief in the power of education and accessibility.

Key Moment at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

One of my most impactful academic experiences was receiving the First-Year Composition Award from the Department of English. As someone who navigates multiple languages and cultures, being recognized for my writing was incredibly validating. It affirmed my ability to tell stories and communicate across diverse audiences. Additionally, my coursework in International Studies, especially discussions on global governance and regionalism, has shaped my interest in comparative studies—something I’m exploring in my research on the EU and ASEAN.

Another ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Moment 

ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú has given me countless opportunities to grow beyond the classroom. My role as a Student Associate for Communications in Student Life has taught me skills in content creation, digital engagement, and storytelling. My leadership in the DEI Representatives allowed me to advocate for inclusion on campus, while my Scholar Leader experience provided a tight-knit community that fosters meaningful discussions and service. Studying abroad in Barcelona has been another transformative experience—expanding my worldview, strengthening my Spanish, and allowing me to explore my identity as an international student in new contexts.

Advice to Prospective Student

ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú is a place where you can carve your own path. Whether you want to take on leadership roles, conduct research, or immerse yourself in campus traditions, there’s space for you to grow. As an international student, I’ve found support from professors, peers, and mentors who genuinely care about my success. The opportunities here are endless—it’s up to you to take them.

What are your career goals?  

I’m passionate about working in communications and DEI, particularly in higher education or international development. I hope to use my experiences in storytelling, advocacy, and research to amplify underrepresented voices, especially those of international students navigating identity and belonging. My long-term goal is to contribute to policies and programs that make global education more inclusive and accessible.

One Final Share

One moment that meant a lot to me was seeing my face on the Scholar Leader Community posters across campus. As an international student, that representation felt powerful—it showed that ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú values diverse student voices. Moments like these remind me why I chose ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú and why I continue to invest in this community.