The description "loving to play more than loving to learn" characterized the early days of student Cao Thi Bich Phuong (2001) when she first stepped into the university halls, embracing the vibrant city life. However, after a period of self-transformation, Phuong became the Female Valedictorian in the Information Security sector (High-Quality Program) at the University of Information Technology, VNU-HCM.
Once a girl who loved playing more than studying
Choosing a major is a challenging decision for many high school students when they stand at the threshold of university life. The chosen field not only defines the area of study for the next four years but also shapes their future. However, for Bich Phuong, this decision was relatively simple. Since high school, she had identified her passion. Phuong said, "I chose Information Security because of my interest in exploring and experimenting with computers, and partly because the major sounded cool. After starting my studies, I realized that Information Security is not only 'cool' but also very useful and interesting. This is the right choice for personal development and making a positive contribution to the information security of society."
Phuong sought information from various sources, carefully considered her options, and decided to choose UIT as the place to invest four years of her youth. Phuong shared, "I chose UIT because it is one of the most prestigious universities in the country for Information Technology. I believe that with a modern learning environment, excellent teaching quality, and a team of highly qualified lecturers, UIT will be an ideal environment for me to study, research, and have a good job in the future."
Entering university with many dreams, but during the first year, the inclination towards leisure activities made the young girl lose her direction in her studies. Phuong, who had just moved away from home to the vibrant city, became enamored with the lively lifestyle here. At that time, she was more interested in going out than in academic activities, leading to unsatisfactory academic results in her first year.
Realizing that she had deviated from the right path, Bich Phuong was determined to change herself. The young girl said, "From those failures, I learned a lot about self-management, setting goals, and determination to achieve them. Besides, I learned to balance between studying and other recreational activities." These setbacks helped Bich Phuong grow a lot. She changed herself every day to progress quickly. On this journey, the support of teachers, friends, and they themselves served as motivation for Phuong to strive forward.
"If you want to, you will find a way"
Evidence of Phuong's efforts is the series of impressive achievements in her studies and extracurricular activities. In addition to the title of Female Valedictorian in Information Security (High-Quality Program), she also received many times the UIT Encouragement Scholarship. The student of 2001 became a student with 5 Good Qualities awarded by the Faculty and University for three consecutive years, achieving the title of Advanced Youth Following Uncle Ho's Words - in the field of study and scientific research in 2023. Besides, Phuong also has a passion for sports.
To achieve these impressive academic achievements, Phuong applied various study methods, "planning study schedules, creating a positive learning environment, prioritizing important tasks first. Besides, I built an effective time management plan, participated in study groups, sought support from everyone around me, and always maintained an optimistic spirit." - Phuong confided.
Starting her internship in the third year, Bich Phuong accumulated a lot of practical experience before graduating. Thanks to a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, Phuong found a job that matched her field of study and was determined to stick with it. She hopes to apply the knowledge she has learned to real-life situations, learn from those who have gone before, and enhance her professional knowledge and work experience every day.
From the experiences gleaned during her university studies, the young girl wants to offer advice to new students: learn to balance between studying and having fun. Phuong reflects, "If you want it, you will find a way; if you don't, you will find an excuse." With determination and genuine effort, no goal is too difficult to achieve.
By Thuy Linh - UIT Admissions
For more details, visit: https://tuyensinh.uit.edu.vn/hanh-trinh-thay-doi-cua-nu-thu-khoa-me-choi-hon-me-hoc
Ha Bang - Contributing Communications Member of the University of Information Technology
