Nguyen Khanh Huong, 24, from Hanoi, is setting her sights on higher academic and career milestones after completing the 12-month IMD@NEU International Master's Program at National Economics University.

Nguyen Khanh Huong at the graduation ceremony for the IMD@NEU International Master's Program at National Economics University. *Photo: NVCC*

Huong works at Eastgate Software JSC, a technology company providing software solutions for the international market. Despite having a stable job, she decided to pursue an international master's degree while working. She realized that operating in a multinational environment required a systematic foundation of thinking and a broader market perspective to advance. Her decision to study at IMD@NEU stemmed from a desire for a program that was both international and highly practical.

Throughout the 12 months, balancing work pressure with international-standard research papers and presentations was Huong's greatest challenge. However, the intense study environment helped her improve time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Huong noted that learning there extended beyond theory. Each major assignment required students to research and connect directly with real-world business issues, fundamentally changing her daily work mindset.

According to Nguyen Khanh Huong, the biggest difference after one year of study was the ability to view work from a strategic perspective. "Instead of focusing solely on daily professional tasks, I began approaching international business situations and collaborating in teams with students from various fields", Huong shared. This diversity boosted her confidence in communicating and negotiating with foreign partners. She learned to analyze issues from multiple angles, encompassing business strategy, technology application, and understanding global customer behavior.

Graduation ceremony for the MSc4 cohort in 2025 of the International Training Institute - National Economics University. *Photo: IMD@NEU*

The young master's graduate highlighted IMD@NEU's diverse networking opportunities as a significant advantage. The program brought together experienced faculty and students from various professions, creating a rich intellectual ecosystem. Discussing and solving business problems with classmates helped young professionals like Huong gain fresh career perspectives. "This is a crucial factor in a dynamic labor market that demands flexibility and interdisciplinary connection", Huong affirmed.

The master's program not only enhanced her professional competence but also helped the Gen Z individual clearly define her future academic path. Having once thought a master's degree was solely for career advancement, she developed a deep interest in research. The program ignited her passion for exploring in-depth knowledge and a desire to contribute to the academic foundation of the field. Huong is currently preparing and submitting her PhD application. She expects to become a doctoral candidate next October to continue her journey of conquering the pinnacles of knowledge.

Education experts note that the Gen Z generation is highly proactive in investing in knowledge early on. Choosing international training programs closely linked to practical applications helps young people shorten their development paths and quickly adapt to the global work environment. In a fiercely competitive market, independent thinking and resilience honed at the master's level become significant advantages.

(Source: IMD@NEU)

IMD@NEU 2026 Enrollment Information:

Information Day: 26/6

Application Deadline: 24/7

Opening Ceremony: 3/10

Learn more: https://www.thacsiquocteimdneu.com/tuyensinh

Contact for detailed consultation:

International Training Institute, National Economics University

Address: Room 1409, 14th floor, A1 building, National Economics University - 207 Giai Phong, Hanoi

Hotline: 0968 102 106

Email: info.imd@isneu.org