From VietHope Student to U.S. Master’s Researcher

Trần Lê Bá Thịnh, a member of VietHope’s F10 generation, is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Computer Science at the University of Dayton – ranked among the top 32 universities offering the best value to students. Behind this journey of reaching out to the world are numerous challenges, difficulties, and valuable lessons that have helped him gradually achieve his academic dreams.

Overcoming challenges

Looking back on his undergraduate journey, Bá Thịnh shared that the greatest difficulty was self-discipline. There were times when he felt tired or wanted to take a break while facing multiple upcoming deadlines. However, he found a way to push through by asking himself: “Why did I start this journey, study this field, and attend this university?” These reflections helped him regain motivation and keep striving. For Thịnh, the reason he began his academic journey and what he hopes to achieve in the future are the driving forces behind his perseverance.

He also highlighted that a key factor in overcoming difficulties was the support of those around him, especially his VietHope family. Thịnh realized that the greatest value VietHope provided was not the financial scholarship itself, but a sense of belonging. He met many people willing to help him in various aspects, from academics and work to life experiences. Key milestones in his journey, from awards and scholarships to job opportunities, were all influenced by VietHope.

Pursuing academic goals to the fullest

Bá Thịnh shared that his dream of studying abroad formed in high school. During those years, teachers and friends encouraged him to reach for new horizons to learn and develop himself. However, due to limited financial resources and language skills, he could not realize this dream at the time. His undergraduate studies and work experience helped him strengthen both his finances and language skills while gaining a better understanding of himself, discovering his true passion, and expanding personal and professional networks.

Even after securing a stable job in his chosen field, Thịnh decided to return to study. He said, “In The Alchemist, the protagonist does not stay in the desert because he realizes that pursuing his Personal Legend is the core of life.” Throughout his undergraduate years and even while working, Thịnh kept this dream as a guiding principle, reminding himself of what he truly wanted and why he started.

Overcoming barriers in the study abroad application process

During the application process, Thịnh faced several difficulties, particularly regarding the university’s requirement for transcripts to be mailed and verified by a third party in the U.S. This process could take up to two months and would have delayed his admission. However, through NEEC, VietHope’s strategic partner, he was exempted from this verification step, saving considerable time and effort.

Thịnh also shared his experiences accumulated through prior study and work, emphasizing the importance of developing skills beyond his major, such as driving, playing musical instruments, cooking, and time management. He believes that living independently abroad requires flexibility, and these additional skills sometimes help him be more creative in his work. For instance, in a recent project involving an image dataset, his basic photo-editing skills allowed him to solve a problem effectively.

Everyone has their own journey

Thịnh wants to send a message to VietHope students: “To reach a goal, there isn’t a single path. Each person has their own journey, with different routes, speeds, and starting points. What matters is continuously improving yourself every day. Small steps accumulate into significant achievements.”

Through Bá Thịnh’s academic and professional journey, it is evident that perseverance, self-discipline, and continuous self-improvement are key to achieving one’s dreams. Despite numerous challenges, Thịnh believes that every step and decision is interconnected, bringing him closer to his goals. Lessons in soft skills development, maintaining motivation, and seeking support from those around him—especially VietHope—will continue to serve as a solid foundation for reaching new heights in the future.