The scholarship gathering on June 15, 2025, not only provided me with valuable knowledge, but more importantly, helped me reorient myself and reflect more deeply on my future. Below, I would like to summarize the core insights that moved me most – along with personal reflections and concrete examples:

1. "Choose your friends wisely – friendship as a mirror of your life"

 

One proverb mentioned during the event struck a deep chord with me:
"Better to starve with integrity than to be full with disgrace."

In a society where material hardship often leads people to compromise their values, it became clear how crucial our environment is in shaping our morals, mindset, and life direction.

Example: If you surround yourself with ambitious, honest, and hardworking people, their influence will naturally elevate you. On the other hand, a negative circle can easily lead you astray.

Lesson: Choose friends who have principles, a clear purpose, and who lift each other up – because they help shape who you become.

2. Choosing the right field of study – and owning your decisions

Not everyone is lucky enough to pick the "right" major on the first try. But one thing became clear to me: Even if you’ve taken a wrong turn, you are still responsible for the path you’ve chosen.

Example: Some senior students started in engineering, but later transitioned to business fields. Their technical background gave them a strong analytical edge in understanding economic systems.

Lesson: Your field of study is not the only factor that matters – mindset, willingness to learn, and adaptability are just as essential.

3. Learning through experience – not just books

 

I realized that one of my biggest shortcomings is a lack of practical experience.

 

Example: Someone may know everything about marketing in theory, but unless they’ve actually sold a product, they don’t truly understand the field. Those who gain hands-on experience early – through side jobs, for example – often develop better problem-solving skills and flexibility.

Lesson: We must actively seek out practical opportunities – online selling, student projects, internships. Every bit of experience counts.

4. Learning to take responsibility – especially for one’s family

This part touched me the most. Teacher Hoè said: "We don’t learn just to get a job – we learn to take responsibility: for ourselves, for our lives, and for our families."

Example: A child from a disadvantaged background who becomes financially independent through education and can support their parents – that’s the true value of learning.

Lesson: I don’t want to learn just “for the exams,” but with the goal of taking charge of my life and becoming someone who can support and care for others.

5. The real value of money – invest wisely, don’t just consume

Money is a means, not the goal. If we don’t understand its true value, we end up spending it carelessly. Example: Spending 1 million VND on branded shoes is an expense. Spending the same amount on a course that could multiply your income in the future is an investment.

Lesson: Every expense should bring long-term value. I must learn to spend wisely – not chase appearances, but build substance.

6. Honesty and transparency – the foundation of trust

Lasting success is built on credibility.

Example: One student shared how he lost his classmates’ trust due to lack of transparency in managing class funds – even though the amount involved was small.

Lesson: Trust is priceless. Honesty begins with the little things – keeping your word, even when no one’s watching.

7. Social competence – acting with both heart and mind

True communication is more than words – it’s shown through respect, listening, and empathy.

Example: In a group project, it’s more effective to gently engage a quiet member than to criticize them in front of others.

Lesson: Kindness is not weakness – it’s emotional intelligence.

8.  Think about business ideas early – preparation is everything

It’s never too early to start thinking entrepreneurially.

Example: A student started selling handmade products at 19 – by 25, she had built her own brand.

Lesson: Ideas grow from interests and awareness. I want to learn how to plan, study markets, and take financial responsibility from an early stage.

Conclusion:

This meeting was more than just a seminar – it was a turning point. I now see my role in the family, in society, and toward those who believe in me in a whole new light.

From now on, I am determined to live with purpose, to learn sincerely, to act with integrity, and to actively develop myself – with the hope that one day, I can help those who are now in the position I once was.

This event wasn’t just a lecture for me – it was a life lesson.

Teacher Hoè was not only a teacher, but like a father figure, teaching with heart, wisdom, and real-life experience what it means to be a good person.

Every word he shared carried care, understanding, and quiet faith.

I felt his love and hope for us – his students – who are still learning how to find our own way.

He didn’t just teach us knowledge – he gave us direction, confidence, and the desire to lead a meaningful life, for ourselves and for others.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank my teacher and role model – someone who, quietly and selflessly, is helping to shape our future.