Valedictorian of Class 27 in Travel and Tourism Management: Brave to engage in global integration

On the morning of August 16, 2025, newly graduated Bachelor Nguyen Dinh Do, Valedictorian of Class 27 in Travel and Tourism Management, proudly represented all new graduates in delivering a graduation speech at the Commencement. In his address, Do reflected on his four-year journey filled with memorable international experiences, personal growth through challenges, and heartfelt gratitude to his family, lecturers, and friends.

Dear lecturers, parents, fellow new Masters and Bachelors of Van Lang University,

I am Nguyen Dinh Do, proudly a son of the land of martial spirit and literature – Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh (formerly), now Gia Lai province. I am deeply honored to represent my fellow graduates in speaking at this significant ceremony today.

Just four days ago, I returned from the Exchange Summer Camp in Indonesia, a collaborative program between the Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University and the Trisakti Institute of Tourism (Indonesia). During the program, students from both countries took part in study trips and cultural exchanges at the partner institution. This was the last international exchange I was fortunate to join as a Tourism student at Van Lang University, making this journey especially emotional and memorable.

I must say that choosing to study at Van Lang University was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Van Lang University gave me countless opportunities to step out of my comfort zone, challenge myself, and acquire essential skills.

In fact, not every Travel and Tourism Management student is naturally outgoing or eager to explore new lands. Back in high school, I never planned to leave this country due to concerns about safety and my discomfort with adapting to change. I rarely had chances to meet or interact with foreigners. Yet, in just four years at Van Lang University, I was given numerous opportunities to connect with students from all around the world.

The program that left the deepest impression on me was the Riviera Festival, hosted by Vellore Institute of Technology in India. I attended the festival with two other Van Lang University student representatives. Truly, it was a unique experience, unlike any trip I had ever taken before.

It was the first time I applied for my own visa, my first transit flight, my first time meeting friends from all over the world in a country I had never visited. Most of all, it was the first time I felt deeply proud to be Vietnamese, donning the traditional ao dai at a major cultural festival in a foreign land. These experiences made me more confident and open-minded about the world around me.

My journey at Van Lang University was not always smooth or joyful. I experienced disappointment and regret, especially in 2023 when I missed the opportunity to join the delegation of students visiting Hung Kings’ Temple, a prestigious honor every Van Lang University student wishes for.

I then decided to plan my development in phases, setting clear criteria to earn both the “Five-Good Student” title at the university level and the “Outstanding Student” recognition. My efforts paid off. In 2024, my name was proudly called among the student representatives selected for the Hung Kings’ Temple visit. That was perhaps the most memorable moment of my student life at Van Lang University.

I am truly grateful for everything, because no one can go far by walking alone. Today’s achievement is mine, but it also carries the imprint of so much love and support. I sincerely thank my lecturers, who devoted themselves to imparting knowledge, unlocking potential, and igniting my passion for learning. I am deeply thankful to my friends and loved ones who stood by my side, creating wonderful memories throughout my university years.

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Van Lang University, a place that provided a friendly, dynamic learning environment, and countless opportunities for students like me to grow into better versions of ourselves.

Above all, my deepest gratitude goes to my parents. You were my very first teachers and have always accompanied me on every step of my journey to learn and mature. Dad always gave wise advice on taking care of my health. Mom always offered valuable guidance on how to treat others with kindness and respect.

Though I studied far from home, I never once felt lacking in love. You always encouraged and cheered for me from afar, through both happy and difficult moments. While working on my graduation thesis, I was stressed and even thought of giving up, but you always spoke with me, saying, “Give it your best and there will be no regrets”, “Believe in yourself”... These seemingly small things warmed my heart deeply. Thank you, Mom and Dad, so much.

I am truly blessed and grateful to be your child. This Bachelor’s degree is not only the result of personal effort but also proof of your love and faith in me.

NGUYEN DINH DO
Valedictorian of Class 27 
Bachelor of Arts in Travel and Tourism Management