Vui Nguyễn’s education began in Vietnam, where she sold vegetables at the local market in order to afford high school tuition. Born into a humble family of farmers in Thái Bình City, she learned the value of hard work early on. This shaped her commitment to pursuing an education even when faced with obstacles and limited resources.
After graduating from high school, Nguyễn pursued her undergraduate studies in Vietnam, eventually landing a job in the banking industry.
“I believed that if I could further my education in this profession, I could be more financially independent,” said Nguyễn. “Coming from a humble background in a farming community, where the chores are endless, helped me develop core values such as a strong work ethic, tenacity, perseverance and passion.”
Nguyễn worked as a banker for six years before deciding she was ready for a new challenge — earning an MBA. Stepping out of her comfort zone, she began to look for opportunities abroad.
“I wanted to further my education at a university outside Vietnam, particularly in the U.S.,” she said. “I also wanted to be in a place that provides opportunities to grow and learn, where my voice is heard. Additionally, I wanted to break the cycle of poverty in my family that had existed for so many years.”
Nguyễn chose Cal State Fullerton for its strong reputation, diverse community and location. She believes that the core values she learned early on through her hardships in Vietnam are what helped her get accepted into CSUF. Today, she is a second-year MBA student in the College of Business and Economics.
With guidance and mentorship from CSUF faculty members, Nguyễn has decided that her next goal is earning a Ph.D. Then, she hopes to revisit Vietnam.
“I’d like to go back to my hometown upon completion of my education and apply for a faculty position at a university in my homeland. I want to nurture young generations and help them recognize their talents. I also want to use my acquired skills and talents to create more job opportunities for disadvantaged communities,” said Nguyễn.
Her early life of hardships in a rural community have made Nguyễn appreciate how far she’s come, and she wants to support others who are in the position her family was.
For now, Nguyễn is enjoying her experience as a Titan.
“I believe it’s a great place to study because we have truly qualified professors who teach with heart, soul and compassion. The university has helped me build a home far from my hometown. I’m really grateful to have met professors, faculty members, staff, classmates and friends who have played a big part in my MBA journey.”
To learn more about opportunities for international students at Cal State Fullerton, visit the International Education and Engagement website.