Scholar Spotlight: Kevin’s Dual Diploma Opens Career and University Opportunities in Vietnam
Hudson Global Scholars program: Providence Country Day Global Campus U.S. Dual Diploma
Home: Vietnam
Have you ever had to make a decision that had the potential to open big opportunities? Sometimes that decision might come with a risk or a sacrifice, but the reward is enormously beneficial and worth the accompanying stress. Often the best opportunities come with a certain level of apprehension, but also the biggest reward. My story is just one small example meant to inspire and motivate students—whether they choose to follow a path similar to mine—or aspire to follow a different dream.
When I first heard about the U.S. Dual Diploma Program, I saw the potential opportunity of this international program for my future. I was a bit nervous as the U.S. Dual Diploma Program was a significant investment for my family. But I saw that the exposure to international culture and knowledge would open pathways for me that would improve the chances for a brighter future for myself and my family. We believed in and recognized the value of an exceptional education.
I wondered if my English was good enough to be successful in the program. But, by the second semester in the U.S. Dual Diploma Program, I was reading everything in English. My courses gave me daily practice that encouraged me to adapt my learning skills, using English in different ways, from thinking and writing to listening and speaking. My courses provided an English-speaking environment that I was immersed in, and which grew my English skills exponentially. Today, my English mastery is a huge benefit in my life.
Having teachers who were student-focused in their teaching style was a wonderful help. The independent learning style required by my courses was a different experience for me, but my teachers helped me learn how to study and be more productive and self-directed as a learner. They offered me the support to solve problems and succeed in class and beyond.
As a Dual Diploma student, I fell in love with economics and English language arts. These subjects were totally new to me and helped me realize that I could be an international business student. I was able to quickly adapt to English and to see new opportunities that were available in an international context.
The investment my family and I made in my education through the U.S. Dual Diploma Program is already paying off and has even resulted in a scholarship offer. Now as a graduate of the U.S. Dual Diploma Program, I am a sophomore at The Western Sydney University in Vietnam, a joint program with the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, where I am majoring in international business.
I also have a job at an international bilingual school. In 2023, just one week after my National High School Exam, I was hired as a Marketing Coordinator and now am responsible for handling the school’s communications and events. This position requires me to stay updated on all events and activities while ensuring effective communication with students, parents, teachers, staff, and external stakeholders.
Through this role, I’ve had the opportunity to expand my network and deepen my understanding of communications and event management. Although I partially secured this role through networking, my credentials from the Dual Diploma program improved my application, making it possible to be considered for a role that typically requires a bachelor’s degree. When submitting my application, I provided both my Vietnamese program diploma and my notarized American diploma. These credentials served as proof that I was qualified to fulfill the job requirements and were a key factor in strengthening my competitive advantage.
The skills and experience I gained from the U.S. Dual Diploma Program set me up for success at the university and for my job, where I am continuing to work on English skills and business skills for my future career goals. The transition to college and career has been smooth thanks to my adaptable skill set, which I developed in the U.S. Dual Diploma Program. I have found it easy to independently focus on my life, studies, and job.
After earning my bachelor’s degree, I plan to continue studying in Vietnam at the University of Economics – International School of Business, pursing a Master of Business Administration (MBA), though I may consider studying abroad for my MBA as well. Ultimately, I aim to achieve a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or PhD in Business. In parallel, I am currently studying finance and preparing to obtain a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) certification from the CFA Institute to enhance my competitiveness in the job market. I am also considering the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) certification as an additional credential. These academic pursuits will be my primary focus in this phase of my development. I then hope to return to put my skills and my education to work in Vietnam. One of my dreams is to build a startup that helps university students practice business skills.
I honestly believe that the U.S. Dual Diploma Program turned a page in my life. My family is definitely proud of me. We are all happy that we made the decision for me to follow this path of study. The investment we have made has rewarded us, and we all see how many opportunities it has provided—and will continue to provide for me and for my family.
If I could give any advice to students who are considering a Dual Diploma, it would be that this program can be your transition or milestone for the paths that lie ahead. I strongly encourage future global scholars to discover their strengths by taking the leap and making the investment in an international education.
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