Valedictorian Pham Tran Dong Nhat: Van Lang University provides an environment rich in opportunities

On the morning of August 6, 2026, fresh engineer Pham Tran Dong Nhat - Valedictorian of Class 28 in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology represented the new graduates to speak at the Commencement Ceremony. As the third child in his family to graduate as Valedictorian at Van Lang University, Dong Nhat expressed his pride and heartfelt gratitude, while viewing university as an empowering environment for autonomy, helping learners confidently seize opportunities and practice their expertise. 

On the morning of August 6, 2026, fresh engineer Pham Tran Dong Nhat - Valedictorian of Class 28 in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology represented the new graduates to speak at the Commencement Ceremony. As the third child in his family to graduate as Valedictorian at Van Lang University, Dong Nhat expressed his pride and heartfelt gratitude, while viewing university as an empowering environment for autonomy, helping learners confidently seize opportunities and practice their expertise. 

Dear Lecturers, Parents, and dear Masters, Engineers, and Bachelors!

Four years ago, also on the stage of Trinh Cong Son Hall, I was honored to represent freshmen of the Faculties of Technology  & Engineering to speak at the Opening Convocation of Class 28. I still vividly remember the introduction that year: “Actually, when I came to Van Lang, I felt like I was returning to my Home. My two older sisters are both Van Lang alumni with excellent performance. My eldest sister graduated as Valedictorian in Environmental Studies in 2009, and my fourth sister graduated as Valedictorian in Accounting in 2014.”

Today, after 4 years, I am extremely happy to extend that introduction: “I am proud to be the third child in my family to graduate as Valedictorian at Van Lang University. I am Pham Tran Dong Nhat – Valedictorian of Class 28, majoring in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology.”

The reason why I chose this major is simple: I love creativity. I have always been fascinated by how devices operate precisely according to engineering principles. I hope one day to become an Engineer who creates useful solutions, bringing technology closer to life.

Since high school, I have been into tinkering with technology. I once boldly borrowed money from my parents to buy the first security surveillance cameras, researched how to install them, and then installed them for customers. Such small experiences helped me realize that: engineering is not just about machinery, but also about how they create value for humans.

When standing at the threshold of university, I also had many concerns. What worried me the most was the family's financial condition.

Dad said to me: "If you believe this is a place where you can grow, then choose unhesitatingly. For the rest, your parents will work hard with you."

Dad believed in Van Lang University because he witnessed my two sisters grow up here. Looking back today, I am so grateful because that day Dad believed in me, more than I believed in myself. 

The day I entered Van Lang University, I only had the dream of becoming a good Engineer. But after four years, what I have received was much more than that. At Van Lang University, what I give the most thanks is not only the knowledge but also the opportunities for students to discover themselves.

To me, every opportunity serves as a milestone to grow. As Secretary of the Faculty Union and Member of the Executive Committee of the University Union, I learned how to connect, listen and lead through activities of Youth Union and Association.

Also, I realized that professional knowledge is the foundation, but to integrate, an Engineer needs a global mindset, adaptability and a spirit of cooperation through international exchange programs, especially my fourth-year study trip to Taipei during Summer Workshop.

I have witnessed many excellent friends in the Faculties of Technology & Engineering. They boldly conducted scientific research, joined specialized competitions, and did start-ups with special ideas. Many of them stepped into the international environment to study and showcase their talents.

Every student puts in silent efforts day by day for a Bachelor’s degree and personal achievements. I never thought I was good. I always try to be better today than yesterday with a spirit of working my best and supporting everyone.

Such a fun quote but something I deeply cherish: “Van Lang gave a fishing rod, not a fish.” Van Lang is an environment ready to offer opportunities; and it is also the place that helped me be confident enough to seize opportunities, overcome my fears, and step forward.

I would like to send my sincere thanks to the Directorate of Van Lang University, and the Lecturers who have always been dedicated to lecturing, inspiring, and providing us with precious opportunities. I thank the friends who studied together, accompanied me, and created a memorable youth at Van Lang.

Today, as Valedictorian, I am so happy to have partially fulfilled the promise on the first days, that I would strive to study, practice, and contribute to being worthy of my choice and my family's trust. My sisters gave me the motivation to try. And Dad was the one who gave me the faith to start.

Dad! Thank you for encouraging me to choose Van Lang that day. Thank you for always believing in me. And your faith is my source of strength.

I want to thank Mom, my siblings, and the whole family for always silently loving, sacrificing, and accompanying me to have today.

Dear fellow graduates,

After today, each of us will embark on different journeys. But I hope that, wherever we are, we will always maintain the spirit of Van Lang people: the spirit of lifelong learning, continuous contribution, being sincere with what we pursue, and striving to move forward.

I wish the Lecturers, Parents, and all of you health, happiness, and success.

PHAM TRAN DONG NHAT

Valedictorian of Class 28 in Engineering in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology