Thanh Tung, 29 years old, is currently pursuing a master's degree in education policy analysis at Harvard University. His Fulbright scholarship from the US government will cover all tuition fees, which amount to over 62,000 USD annually, along with living expenses throughout his studies.

"I never thought I could come this far," Tung said. At this prestigious institution, he aims to focus on statistics, policy, and technology courses, and participate in international projects to enhance his specialized knowledge.

Thanh Tung on the Harvard University campus. Photo: Provided by interviewee

Originally from Ha Giang, Tung recounted his initial choice to follow the "beaten path": striving to pass university entrance exams, graduating, and finding a stable job. With this mindset, starting from his second year studying English language at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, Tung began teaching extra classes to gain experience.

This process shifted his perspective on education. Having witnessed students so stressed they cried daily, Tung often spent time talking with them, guiding them on managing emotions and communication.

"From then on, I realized students need more from a teacher than just knowledge delivery," Tung shared.

Consequently, after graduating, Tung delved into designing curriculum content, training teachers in skills, and participating in some projects to build schools for children in highland areas. Through these field trips, Tung observed the resource gap between public and private schools. For example, private schools often have dedicated staff for tasks such as student mental health care, curriculum research and development, and parent engagement. In contrast, at many public schools, teachers sometimes have to take on these responsibilities in addition to teaching, facing significant pressure.

"Especially in highland regions, teachers often have to do everything, from encouraging children to attend school to ensuring their daily meals. I was deeply concerned about how to secure more resources to support them," Tung shared. This was the impetus that led him to abandon stability and pursue education policy analysis at Harvard, hoping to find systemic solutions instead of just addressing surface-level issues.

Furthermore, having participated in a project on integrating GenAI (generative artificial intelligence) into schools, the young man from Ha Giang recognized that new technologies would contribute to creating effective learning environments for students. Technology innovations often originate in the US before spreading globally.

"I want to learn and work directly with experts in the US, then find ways to apply models based on the needs and strengths of Vietnamese schools," he stated.

Applying for the Fulbright scholarship and Harvard University are two distinct processes, but Tung noted similarities in their application requirements. Both applications include university transcripts, certifications, essays, study plans, and letters of recommendation.

Tung began preparing his application in mid-2024, with essay writing being the most time-consuming part. Recounting the difficulties he faced studying in Hanoi and his connection to the teaching profession, Tung emphasized that education is not just about academic achievement, but also about building bridges between teachers and students, connecting with life and social relationships.

"I clarified the shifts in my life and explained why. This also helped the reviewers understand me better," Tung said.

After writing his essay, Tung sought feedback and evaluation from an expert. He considers this a crucial step, noting that the reviewer needs to understand the applicant and education policy.

"But it is essential to maintain your personal voice. There are many ways to tell a story, but if you write a version that is no longer yours, it is very easy to fail," Tung observed.

For his letters of recommendation, Tung asked a former supervisor to write one. He advises applicants to prepare these letters at least one month before the submission deadline; thoroughly research the school's requirements and cross-reference them with their own profile to assess suitability.

Tung (seated center, front row) with friends at Harvard University. Photo: Provided by interviewee

Tung plans to return after completing his course. He expressed his desire to research applying technology in teaching and teacher training, consult for schools, and connect with others to pilot new educational models.

"I hope to have opportunities to collaborate with experts and organizations to work with the government in promoting educational initiatives in Vietnam," Tung shared.

Doan Hung