22-year-old Phung Mai Linh, from Quang Ninh, graduated with a 3.94/4 GPA in information systems management. She is one of the top graduates of the Trade University this year.

While Linh officially received her diploma on 24/6, she had already secured a full-time position as a software tester at Nashtech Vietnam before starting her final year. Nashtech is a member of Nash Squared (UK), a company specializing in software solutions and development. Last year, Nashtech was ranked among the top 100 best places to work in Vietnam.

Mai Linh on her graduation day. Photo: Provided by the subject.

Four years ago, with a near-perfect score of 27 on the D07 exam (math, chemistry, and English), Linh was accepted into the information systems management program. The Uong Bi High School alumna admits she didn't know much about the field then but chose it because it combined business and technology.

Starting university during the Covid-19 pandemic meant online learning for Linh. She set short-term goals, such as being in the top 5 of her class in the first semester with a straight-A transcript. Her long-term goals included graduating with honors and securing an internship in her final year.

Throughout her studies, Linh adhered to the motto of "studying at the right time and in the right way." Before each course, she would acquire textbooks and borrow materials to read ahead. During lectures, she focused on grasping the main ideas to build a solid foundation. As exams approached, she often studied in groups, collaborating on outlines. At this stage, she primarily reviewed key concepts and connected them to real-world examples.

"Overall, I had to truly learn during the lectures to understand the essence, not just cram before exams," Linh reflected.

Linh's major focuses on managing information system operations, collecting, analyzing, and evaluating business data through software to aid in business decision-making. Therefore, the curriculum includes some programming courses.

Linh faced some initial challenges due to her lack of prior exposure to programming in high school, coupled with the demanding workload at university. Besides seeking help from instructors and peers, she joined online communities to access past exams and practice; she also used online tools to test her code.

Due to the specialized nature of her program, about 30% of Linh's courses were taught by industry professionals. She found courses like graphic design and software testing particularly engaging because they offered practical experience and insights from professionals.

Linh's opportunity came at the end of her third year when Nashtech visited the Trade University for recruitment. After successfully completing the application process, an assessment, and a three-month internship, she became a full-time employee in 8/2024—before even beginning her final year.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Hoi, deputy head of the department of economic information systems and e-commerce, noted that typically, only about 5% of the department's outstanding students secure full-time employment before graduation. Those who do are usually hired mid-way through their final year, making Linh's early recruitment exceptional.

"Linh passed with very high scores and is one of the most exceptional students our department has ever had," Ms. Hoi commented.

As a software tester, Linh's job involves reviewing programs, identifying and reporting bugs. She recognizes that beyond technical knowledge, understanding the "logic of the program" is crucial for success. This skill wasn't taught in any specific course but rather developed throughout her studies.

"I've learned many theories, but reality doesn't always align perfectly. I have to adapt and apply them flexibly," Linh explained.

While working, Linh continued to excel in her studies. She benefited from the fact that her final-year courses, primarily taught by industry professionals, were scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays. For one weekday afternoon class that conflicted with her work schedule, she would take 2-3 hours off and make up the time later, often finishing work around 8-9 PM.

To maintain balance, Linh strived to complete her work at the office, leaving evenings free for studying. During exam periods, she utilized her lunch breaks for revision.

At university, Linh served as class secretary and was an active member of the department's student association, including a stint as head of communications. She also engaged in research from her second year, focusing on applying blockchain technology to improve supply chain management. Her research received an honorable mention at the 2023 econometrics and applications olympiad and was presented at an international scientific conference the same year.

Mai Linh presenting her research at the 2024 National Scientific Conference "Quantitative Analysis of Economic and Social Issues in the Digital Environment." Photo: Provided by the subject.

Having taught Linh in several courses and supervised her research and thesis, Ms. Hoi describes her as a diligent, intelligent, and kind student. Whenever assigned a task, Linh could complete it thoroughly with minimal guidance.

"I highly value Linh's self-learning abilities. This is a vital skill for success at the university level," Ms. Hoi stated.

Ms. Hoi also observed Linh's patience, a trait well-suited to her chosen career in software testing. Over four years, Linh transformed from a shy, reserved student into a more confident and outgoing individual.

Linh herself acknowledges this personal growth, attributing it to her academic and professional experiences. Content with her current role, she plans to pursue a master's degree in information systems management in the next 1-2 years.

Thanh Hang