Nguyen Ngoc Phuc Tien: A Provost’s Scholarship Recipient with a Passion for Research and Education
October 29, 2024
A Scholar’s Journey and a New Opportunity at VinUniversity
Nguyen Ngoc Phuc Tien’s journey at VinUniversity is a story of resilience, ambition, and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence. A recipient of the prestigious Provost’s Scholarship, Phuc Tien’s path is marked by a series of calculated decisions, all aimed at achieving her long-term dream of becoming a professor.
Her academic journey began at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, where she studied Computer Engineering for half a semester. However, in February 2021, Phuc Tien received a scholarship from VinUniversity, prompting her to shift her focus entirely to this new opportunity. Since then, she has embraced the academic rigor of VinUniversity, excelling in research and academic competitions.
Passion for Education and Contributions to Learning
Phuc Tien’s passion for education extends beyond her studies. Before entering VinUniversity, she co-founded “Vật Lý Chill,” a popular YouTube channel that simplifies physics concepts, and served as an advisor. Her role in the channel, along with her involvement in the “Steam for Vietnam” initiative, reflects her dedication to making learning accessible and engaging for young learners. Despite her busy schedule, Phuc Tien continues to contribute to the field of education as a Peer Tutor at VinUniversity, a role that aligns with her long-term aspiration to become a professor.
In addition to her teaching endeavors, Phuc Tien is actively engaged in research. Under the guidance of Dr. Mai, she published a Q1 paper and presented her work at conferences, including a recent presentation in Taiwan. Her dedication and curiosity led her to establish a connection with a researcher at the event, which secured her an upcoming internship in Taiwan, where she will engage in advanced research projects.
Recognitions, Ambitions, and Balancing Academics
Balancing academics, research, and extracurricular activities has been a hallmark of Phuc Tien’s time at VinUniversity. This balance, she believes, is crucial for success in higher education. “Achieving a high GPA is important, but it’s equally essential to engage in research and competitions,” Phuc Tien advises. For her, the Provost’s Scholarship is not only a recognition of her academic achievements but also a testament to her contributions outside the classroom.
Her academic excellence has been recognized through multiple accolades, including two President’s List awards. Reflecting on these achievements, she recalls the moment she learned about her second award while on a work trip in Singapore. “I was watching the livestream from my hotel room, eating instant noodles and feeling a bit under the weather. When they called my name, it was surreal ‘Wow, they’re talking about me.’” While she expected the Provost’s Scholarship, the President’s List recognition came as a pleasant surprise.
Future Plans in Research, Teaching, and Entrepreneurship
Looking ahead, Phuc Tien has ambitious plans. She is currently applying for VinUniversity’s 3+2 program, which will allow her to pursue a master’s degree abroad. Her ultimate goal is to earn a PhD and return to Vietnam as a professor, contributing to the development of education in the country. She dreams of balancing both research and teaching, believing that impactful teaching is grounded in strong research.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Phuc Tien also has entrepreneurial ambitions. While teaching remains her primary passion, she envisions starting a tech company focused on semiconductors—a field she sees as crucial for Vietnam’s technological advancement. Though this dream is still years away, Phuc Tien is determined to prepare herself through rigorous study and research.
Gratitude and Advice for Future Scholars
Reflecting on her experience at VinUniversity, Phuc Tien credits the institution for offering numerous opportunities that have shaped her growth. “VinUniversity provides more support and projects than any other university I know. The faculty are always there to guide us, even revising slides for competitions,” she shares. For Phuc Tien, choosing VinUniversity was a pivotal decision, one that allowed her to become the best version of herself.
To aspiring students, Phuc Tien offers this advice: “If you want to earn awards like the Provost’s Scholarship, you must find a balance—whether through high GPAs or outstanding extracurriculars. Don’t shy away from competitions and research opportunities; they’re worth the effort. Sometimes, you must sacrifice leisure time for your studies, but the rewards make it all worthwhile.”
An Inspiring Scholar with a Clear Vision
Describing herself in three words – ambitious, hardworking, and passionate – Nguyen Ngoc Phuc Tien embodies the spirit of VinUniversity’s vision for future leaders. With a clear focus on both research and education, she is poised to make a lasting impact in the academic world and beyond.
