22-year-old Hoang Thi Minh Hanh, from Bac Ninh, was a foreign economics student at the Foreign Trade University (FTU). In addition to her 4.0 GPA, Hanh also achieved a near-perfect score of 96/100 in extracurricular activities.

Hanh will receive her diploma and be honored as valedictorian at the university's graduation ceremony this weekend.

"I am very happy that my 4 years of hard work have paid off," Hanh shared.

Hoang Thi Minh Hanh. Photo courtesy of the subject

Hoang Thi Minh Hanh. Photo courtesy of the subject

Hanh is a former student of English at Bac Ninh Specialized High School. She initially wanted to be a teacher but felt her personality was better suited to a more dynamic environment, leading her to pursue foreign trade.

During her first year, coinciding with the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, Hanh had to study online. Initially, she maintained her high school study habits, listening to lectures and waiting for breaks to take notes. However, she soon realized that university professors often lectured continuously without pauses or reminders for students to take notes. Hanh learned to listen and simultaneously jot down important points.

Observing her classmates actively participating and providing detailed answers, Hanh understood the importance of previewing lessons and reading supplementary materials for better comprehension.

"I became more proactive and engaged in my studies. This mindset has stayed with me until now," Hanh said.

Using the syllabus and materials provided by her professors, Hanh previewed lessons, marking any unclear points to ask later. She also reviewed the material immediately after class to avoid cramming during finals. For language courses, she avoided writing directly in the textbooks to allow for repeated practice. Hanh also maintained a healthy lifestyle, typically sleeping at 11 PM to ensure adequate rest.

Courses taught by foreign lecturers presented the biggest challenge. While a typical schedule involved 2-3 sessions per week, accommodating the schedules of American lecturers meant 5 consecutive sessions a week, culminating in a test on the last day. The volume and difficulty of the material required her to dedicate more time to studying.

In addition to her coursework, Hanh participated in research during her third year, winning a university-level award and having her work published in the Industry and Trade Magazine. She also served as the head of the academic department in the university's English club.

Minh Hanh (second from right) with her research group. Photo courtesy of the subject

Minh Hanh (second from right) with her research group. Photo courtesy of the subject

Throughout her 4 years of study, Hanh also held several part-time jobs. For the first two years, she tutored high school students in IELTS. Later, she worked in marketing. These experiences not only provided income but also helped her discover her career preferences.

"After working, I realized I lacked the patience to be a teacher and the creativity for marketing," Hanh admitted. This led her to focus on logistics.

In late July, Hanh secured a position as a logistics specialist at a multinational corporation specializing in interior and exterior design. Her role involves organizing and managing the process of delivering goods from the company's warehouse to customers.

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Binh, a lecturer in the Department of Logistics and Supply Chain Management, taught Minh Hanh International Logistics and Transportation and supervised her research and thesis.

Dr. Binh described Hanh as quiet, composed, and determined—qualities not often seen in the typically dynamic environment of the Foreign Trade University. Hanh demonstrated high levels of determination, discipline, and responsibility.

Hanh's approach to studying was strategic and efficient rather than simply studying day and night. She meticulously planned her study schedule, allocated time effectively, and readily communicated with her professors. Dr. Binh considered these qualities characteristic of a valedictorian.

Hanh's thesis focused on supply chain risk management in a telecommunications corporation. Dr. Binh noted the complexity and topicality of the subject, praising Hanh's comprehensive analysis and practical solutions, indicating her thorough research.

"Hanh's valedictorian title is the result of hard work, not luck," Dr. Binh affirmed.

Hanh's biggest regret is not taking more finance courses during her time at FTU. The only finance course she took was Financial Principles. She feels she doesn't fully grasp how the economy works or understand sustainable and effective investment channels. She is currently pursuing independent study to gain confidence in investing.

In the future, Hanh plans to continue her current job and seek opportunities to pursue a master's degree in logistics. She is open to working in businesses or teaching at universities in Vietnam after graduation.

Thanh Hang