From DUE to the University of Hull: Two Journeys, One Aspiration to Go Global

Opting for the 3+1 transfer program between the University of Economics - University of Danang and the University of Hull (United Kingdom), two students, Duong Van Hoang Vu (Class 48K16, Faculty of Finance) and Nguyen Ta Vinh Khang (Class 48K25.1, Faculty of Business Administration), have experienced a memorable year of study in an international environment, marked by outstanding achievements and significant growth in mindset and skills.

Pursuing different majors, both Hoang Vu and Vinh Khang spoke highly of the learning environment at the University of Hull. For Khang, the highlights included a modern library system, open learning spaces, and the initiative required in research. Meanwhile, Hoang Vu was particularly impressed by the practice-oriented teaching methods, the support provided by lecturers, and various services available to international students.

“What I appreciate most is how lecturers always connect lessons with real-world business situations. This makes knowledge more approachable and easier to apply”, Hoang Vu shared.

Duong Van Hoang Vu during his study journey at the University of Hull, United Kingdom.

Beyond adapting to new learning methods, both students participated in projects tackling real-life problems alongside international peers. These experiences helped them hone teamwork, cross-cultural communication, and critical thinking skills.

Their efforts did not go unnoticed. Vinh Khang and his team won first prize in the Employer Challenge competition, jointly organized by the University of Hull and Tigers Trust.

“In an international environment, teamwork is a vital skill. Everyone has a different approach, so it’s important to listen, delegate appropriately, and respect each other’s viewpoints”, Khang said.

A year of study at the University of Hull offered Vinh Khang the chance to experience an international setting and broaden his network.

Meanwhile, Hoang Vu was awarded the Business Management Subject Prize by the University of Hull for outstanding academic performance. According to Vu, this achievement stemmed from his proactive adaptation to new learning methods.

“I always try to find ways to study that suit the new environment, carefully read the requirements for each module, and focus on truly understanding concepts instead of just memorizing them. That shift in mindset helped me achieve good results”, Vu explained.

Reflecting on their journey from DUE to the University of Hull, both students agreed the program’s greatest value lies not only in earning an international degree but also in their personal growth.

“What I am most proud of is having stepped out of my comfort zone, studied and worked in an international environment, and brought that knowledge back to apply in practice”, Vinh Khang stated.

For Hoang Vu, the most valuable assets after four years of university are the experiences, international connections, and adaptability gained.

Offering advice to students aspiring to study abroad, both encouraged thorough preparation in English, financial planning, and a readiness to embrace challenges. According to them, one year of overseas study does not guarantee instant success, but it provides experiences, skills, and resilience that become advantages in future careers.

“Don’t expect an international degree to automatically secure a high-paying job. What matters more is taking full advantage of your time abroad to learn, experience, and develop yourself”, Vinh Khang advised.

For Hoang Vu, the greatest value of studying abroad is not the destination. “If you get the chance, don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone. Sometimes, the most precious things aren’t the degrees, but the journey of growth and the people you meet along the way”.