Nguyen Minh Nhat, Bachelor of Graphic Design: Living every moment to the fullest with gratitude

On the afternoon of August 7, 2026, Nguyen Minh Nhat, Bachelor of Graphic Design, took the stage at the Commencement Ceremony to represent the Class of 28. Through a deeply personal narrative that spanned his musical aspirations, private trials, and four transformative years at Van Lang, Minh Nhat shared a moving reflection on determination, gratitude, and resilience.

Dear Board of Directors, Faculties, Parents, Masters and Bachelors!

I am Nguyen Minh Nhat, Bachelor of Graphic Design.

It is my honor to speak on behalf of my fellow graduates at the Commencement Ceremony. I hope my story can inspire everyone as we reflect on a journey defined by perseverance, gratitude, and an unwavering refusal to give up.

From a young age, music was my greatest passion. In 2017, I participated in The Voice Kids, but my journey was cut short due to voice cracking in puberty. Though I was deeply disappointed, I chose to view that setback as a lesson rather than a defeat.

A year later, I returned with more seriousness and determination, ultimately reaching the Top 10. Not a major achievement to some, but it was the result of my hard work and self-belief. That milestone taught me that failure is not the end, but a new chapter of never giving up. Returning to that stage gave me the confidence to pursue my passion and earned me the support of the audience.

At that time, my family’s story was widely shared by the media, including Thanh Nien Newspaper. Both my parents were teachers. My mother battled long-term kidney failure, and my father left his job to work as a ride-share driver. Alongside my studies, I performed at various venues to ease our financial burden. Despite our struggles, what mattered most was the family bond, especially the love and trust my parents poured into me.

In 2022, I became a student at Van Lang University and fortunately received a 50% tuition scholarship - a meaningful lifeline for our family. I deeply appreciate Thanh Nien Newspaper, the Saigon Charity organization, and Van Lang University for creating an environment full of dynamicity, creativity and opportunities.

Yet, life rarely follows a straight path. Just months before my high school graduation, I had received devastating news: I was diagnosed with a chronic illness that, to this day, has no cure. It was one of the darkest periods of my life. I felt broken, fearful, and uncertain about my future. However, I learned that we cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand.

I learned to accept my reality and live positively thanks to the love and encouragement of my family and friends, and my own determination. Rather than letting my illness define me, I chose to find a more meaningful way of life. I learned to practice self-love, prioritize my physical and mental well-being, and cherish the blessings I do have.

Throughout my four years at Van Lang, I balanced my studies with my musical pursuits. As a freshman, I had the luck and effort of winning Van Lang's Got Talent. I later participated in the Tỏa Sáng Ước Mơ music program organized by HTV, finishing as the runner-up.

At Van Lang, I gained more than just professional knowledge. I was encouraged to pursue my passion and actively develop myself. I realized that Van Lang does not just train professionals; it nurtures talent across all fields. Especially for those of us in Arts, Design, and Architecture, our unique voices were heard, encouraged, and guided toward becoming the best versions.

Completing my graduation project was a significant milestone - a journey fraught with deadlines, professional requirements and the challenge of perfection. I am grateful to my lecturers for their guidance and my friends for their companionship.

Looking back, I am most proud not of the awards I won, but of the fact that I did not give up. I lived every moment with gratitude, even when it was difficult to face my health challenges. Every experience at Van Lang has been a lesson, shaping my current perspective on how I choose to live and who I want to be.

My story is just one of many among us today. Each of you has faced your own challenges - whether overcoming academic pressure, family hardships, or personal battles with health and mental well-being. But we are here today. We made it to graduation and deserve to be proud of our individual journeys. Congratulations to us all!

To my fellow graduates,

As we move forward into a future of more challenges, I hope you will always prioritize your emotional well-being and self-love. Carry gratitude, kindness, and faith in your own potential wherever you go.

On behalf of the graduates, I extend my heartfelt thanks to our families, our lecrurers, our friends, Van Lang University, and all the "noble hearts" who supported us throughout this journey.

I wish our respected lecturers and parents continued health and happiness. 

And finally, a special, personal thank you to my parents for everything.

I sincerely thank you!

NGUYEN MINH NHAT

Bachelor of Class 28 in Graphic Design