Co-Valedictorians of the Class of 2026 – International Joint Program: "Going Global" begins with learning to open and expand our own mindset

On the afternoon of August 6, 2026, Nguyen Thanh Truc and Hoang Yen represented the new graduates of Van Lang Global School – International Joint Program (Class of 2026) to deliver a speech at the Commencement Ceremony. The appearance of the two valedictorians brought an inspiring story of friendship and teamwork. Thanh Truc and Hoang Yen view global integration as starting from keeping an open mind, embracing differences, and finding reliable companions.

Dear Guests, Lecturers, Parents, beloved families, and all graduate Masters and Bachelors of the Class of 2026,

We are Nguyen Thanh Truc and Hoang Yen, students of the International Business Joint Program between the University of Newcastle (Australia) and Van Lang University. Today, it is such my great honor to represent the graduating Class of 2026 to speak at this commencement ceremony.

Standing here today, perhaps what comes to mind is not merely: "How much have we learned over four years?" More importantly: “After today, what kind of world will we step into?”

We grew up with the expectation of becoming global citizens, while the world around us is changing faster than ever. Technology and artificial intelligence are transforming how people learn and work. With just a single click, we can connect with thousands of people. However, finding someone who truly understands, trusts, and accompanies us on a long journey is never easy. Over the past four years, one of the most precious gifts we received has been reliable teammates who genuinely understand us.

And we are extremely fortunate to stand together on this stage today.

After three years of working side-by-side, we realized we built an interesting complementary partnership. In our discussions, when one of us initiated bold ideas with: "Why don't we try this?", the other grounded everything back to reality with: "How are we going to execute it?" One brought ideas, the other mapped out the execution. That was how we combined our strengths to turn seemingly far-fetched ideas into practical solutions.

Through numerous collaborations, we came to understand each other's working styles so well that few words were needed. A prime example was the recent Vietnam Swiss Innovation Challenge 2025.

Between each round of the competition, we had just over two weeks to prepare. Meanwhile, both of us were balancing work and study, making our schedules extremely tight. Consequently, from the preliminary stage to the finals, we met no more than three times, including both online meetings and in-person rehearsals. Yet, every presentation was delivered thoroughly and professionally.

What we want to share is that the greatest value we gained was not about a trip or a single outcome. Far more meaningful was learning how to work together under pressure, trusting each other's strengths, and continually improving ourselves - even after the competition concluded.

Beyond the Van Lang community, Van Lang Global School provided us with opportunities to study and work in a multicultural environment. That journey brought distinct experiences for each of us. One chose to step out of their comfort zone through an exchange semester at the University of Newcastle in Australia to foster independence, meet new people, and view themselves from a new perspective. The other chose to complete the entire program in Vietnam, but we believe that did not make the journey any less international. Right here at Van Lang, we learned from international lecturers, worked in a diverse environment, and took part in competitions and projects that broadened our worldview.

To us, "Going Global" is not simply about traveling to another country, speaking another language, or building a career across borders. That journey begins with learning to open and expand our own mindset. Perhaps the greatest gift Van Lang has given us is not just a degree or specialized knowledge, but the opportunity to understand ourselves, appreciate differences, and find companions to grow together on the path ahead.

To our respected lecturers,

Thank you not only for equipping us with knowledge, but also for instilling in us the confidence to stand firmly on our own feet. A very special thank you goes to our inspiring and respected lecturer - Dr. Dang Thi Huyen Trang!

To our parents, siblings, and beloved families,

Thank you for all the silent sacrifices, words of encouragement, and for always believing in us.

To our wonderful friends,

Thank you for making four years of university infinitely more meaningful. You are the ones who wrote alongside us a chapter of youth that we will forever cherish.

Dear fellow graduates of the Class of 2026,

No matter how uncertain the road ahead may seem, we hope we will not walk in fear, not measure our lives against others, and never forget that we do not have to walk alone. May the next chapter of our lives be brighter, braver, and stronger as we continue to move forward together.

Thank you very much!

NGUYEN THANH TRUC & HOANG YEN

Co-Valedictorians of Class of 2026 in International Business – Joint Program with the University of Newcastle