Son, originally from Hanoi, recently completed his first semester of the medical program at Dai Nam University with a final score of 8,9/10, the highest among nearly 240 classmates. As the oldest student in the class, Son was surprised by this achievement.

"It had been too long since I was in a classroom, and studying a completely different field from what I had previously learned presented many difficulties", Son said.

Previously, Son graduated with a business administration degree from Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST). When he decided to study medicine, he was a sales manager at a private education and training company, earning a comfortable income to support his wife and one-year-old son.

Dao Sy Son at an event in his role as sales manager. Photo courtesy of subject

In 2017, Son enrolled at HUST, hoping to become an information technology engineer. Not scoring high enough, he opted for his second choice: business administration. He studied without clear direction or passion, even considering dropping out to retake the entrance exam, but his family persuaded him to continue.

Feeling disconnected from his major, Son began working part-time in his first year. In 2018, he started at his current company, progressing from collaborator to employee and then sales manager within three years. His primary responsibilities included finding partners and clients for English courses and assisting in training new collaborators and employees.

Son recalled that his income at the time was sufficient to cover tuition and living expenses, with some savings. Two years ago, he married and opened an online chicken rice shop. While revenue was stable, he found it demanding, with the whole family involved in running the business. Consequently, Son closed the shop after two months, focusing on his company job while his wife took maternity leave.

Yet, Son always felt unfulfilled. As a talented chemistry student in high school, he desired a profession that would allow him to continuously learn and develop, even in his later years. He also wished to provide excellent care for his family and relatives.

"Medicine fulfills all my aspirations", Son stated.

When he shared this with his family, his parents advised him to consider it carefully, citing his young child, significant financial pressure, and the demanding six-year medical program with its extensive and challenging curriculum. After considering his finances and capabilities, and with his wife's support, Son felt ready to pursue his studies. Learning that Dai Nam University admitted medical students based on academic transcripts, Son applied and was accepted.

Son on his graduation day at Hanoi University of Science and Technology. Photo courtesy of subject

The initial days were intense. Son had to virtually relearn subjects like: physics-biophysics, biochemistry, chemistry, genetic biology, and general law. Beyond classroom learning, Son extensively self-studied through YouTube and online lectures. His advantage over classmates was early access to and proficiency in artificial intelligence (AI). He often used AI to synthesize knowledge and then verify what he had learned. He believes his years at HUST and his experience as a sales manager equipped him with the ability to learn quickly, focus, and handle significant pressure.

After more than one month, Son caught up with his classmates and, by the end of the first semester, was able to assist them as a class academic representative, particularly in computer skills and AI usage.

A representative from Dai Nam University noted that it is uncommon for older students, already holding a degree in another field and a managerial position, to return to study medicine. This is due to the unique nature of the field, its extensive curriculum, and long training period. "Son is very courageous, highly determined, and has clear, serious motivation in pursuing his professional passion", the university commented.

Son with his wife and child. Photo courtesy of subject

The second semester has begun, and Son faces even greater challenges as he delves into anatomy, histology-embryology, and pathological anatomy – subjects with vast amounts of knowledge that require constant review. "In anatomy alone, concepts related to bones such as: the fibula, sphenoid, clavicle, and cochlea make my head spin because everything is new", Son recounted.

Meanwhile, Son still dedicates 3-4 sessions per week, during his breaks from university, to maintain his job at the company, sleeping only a few hours daily. "My goal is to study as well as possible, achieve a good or higher degree, and pass the National Medical Council exam", Son stated. From 1/1/2027, this will be a prerequisite for graduating doctors to be licensed to practice, according to the Law on Medical Examination and Treatment.

Duong Tam