From Adversity to Achievement: The Extraordinary Journey of a Disabled Student

The moment student Truong Truc Phuong walked up to the stage and received her bachelor's degree during the UEH annual graduation ceremony was a very special and emotional image for teachers and students that day. Truong Truc Phuong had worked hard for many years to earn her degree, a long journey of constant ascent, a journey that will inspire anyone who hears about it to overcome life's challenges.

Always hold on to your beautiful dreams

Nearly 4 years ago, Truc Phuong was well-known for her portrayal of a cheerful student. She became a new student majoring in Business Information System at UEH University through her effort and extraordinary energy. Truc Phuong had to leave her hometown of Dak Lak for a time, but she brought with her the desire to learn and experience new things, as well as the love and support of family and friends.

The inconveniences caused by transverse myelitis do not appear to have dampened this girl's spirit. When asked about her future goals, Truc Phuong stated that she hopes one day to be able to help her parents and family. A simple dream but contains incredibly beautiful thoughts.

“I simply aspire to secure a job in my preferred field upon graduating. Primarily, this is to ensure my well-being, and I wish to be capable of supporting my parents as well” Truc Phuong shared graciously.

From Adversity to Achievement

Upon entering the university environment, Truc Phuong faced numerous challenges, ranging from the transition to a new living situation. However, her astute character, coupled with the unwavering encouragement and support from her family, school, and friends, helped her navigate through these obstacles with grace. For nearly 4 years, her father moved from Dak Lak to Ho Chi Minh City to help and give her motivation to attend University. Truc Phuong's father shared: “On graduation day, our family felt immense happiness and pride as we saw the rewards of her efforts starting to come to fruition".

Truc Phuong, along with her close friend who had been accompanying her throughout high school, decided to pursue the same major at UEH. The moments whenever they attend lectures together and face challenges hand in hand are heartwarming for educators, professors, and peers at UEH. They have proven to be reliable companions throughout this academic journey.

The future is always bright for those who don't give up

Truc Phuong's UEH journey came to an end at the graduation ceremony, and a new path was now open, one filled with many goals and aspirations.

During the graduation ceremony, Truc Phuong shared, “I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to my families, friends, and teachers who have supported us throughout this journey. However, I must admit that amidst this sense of accomplishment, I also have some regrets because today is the day I graduated from UEH and became an alumnus. Someday, I hope to return to UEH and award scholarships to students in need, just as I did when I needed the support of the UEH community to help motivate me to continue my learning journey.”

Leaving the university premises represents the gateway to an expansive future, recognizing that challenges may persist, yet happiness will grace those who don't give up. Truc Phuong now has a full-time job at a company in the field of technology, the exact specialty she has always desired.

Quote from Dr. Bui Quang Hung - Vice President of UEH at the Graduation Ceremony: “Persistent effort is an apt description of the 48-year journey of UEH, and it can be said that it forms the DNA, the genetic code of each UEHer. Today, as you graduate, you'll explore many career paths, but I believe that UEH's DNA has been and will remain with you in every journey and challenge”.

New bachelor Truc Phuong has been writing her brave journey. Hopefully, the knowledge and skills she gained at UEH will help her succeed in the future and inspire future generations of students.

News, photos: Department of Student Affairs UEH, Department of Marketing and Communication