Tran Ngoc Bao Yen is among the outstanding graduates recognized by HUFLIT at the 2025 Graduation Ceremony for her remarkable academic achievements and active engagement throughout her student journey.
For Yen, one of the most memorable milestones during her university years was her exchange semester in Korea — an experience that marked the beginning of what she calls her three special flights of youth: the flight to explore the world, the flight to understand herself, and finally, the flight from HUFLIT toward her dreams.
Flight to Korea – Where the Dream Took Off
“Holding the ticket in my hand, my heart was pounding — both nervous and thrilled. I could hardly believe it: tomorrow, I’d be on a plane to Korea!” recalled Tran Ngoc Bao Yen, reminiscing about the moment she left Vietnam to begin her journey of discovery.
During her first days in Korea, Yen couldn’t help but feel a little overwhelmed. Despite her solid Korean language foundation, she soon realized that real-life situations were far different from what she had learned in class. Yet, those first uncertain steps made her recognize something profound — she was truly growing up.
“The first time I went to class alone in Korea, found my own way around, managed my study schedule, and calmly handled administrative issues — that’s when I knew I was becoming more independent,” Yen shared.
For Yen, if her time in Korea were a flight, she would describe herself as sitting by the window seat — a place where she could watch the world unfold in its vibrant colors.
“Sitting by the window allowed me to observe and reflect — to see the world from a new angle,” she said.
But sometimes, she wished to sit in the middle seats, surrounded by laughter and friendship.
“The middle rows were filled with laughter, connection, and unforgettable experiences. Maybe my journey is a blend of both — observing and connecting. That’s what made the flight truly complete.”
The Flight Home – Finding Herself Again
A year went by, and while the world had expanded before her eyes, the moment that touched Yen most deeply was the feeling of coming home.
“People often say ‘you travel far to return home.’ For me, coming back from Korea meant returning as a more mature, confident, and experienced version of myself,” Yen shared.
The flight home was when she realized that not all lessons come from textbooks — some are learned through living.
“Every experience in Korea not only helped me improve my Korean rapidly but also opened up perspectives I’d never thought about before. Those were truly valuable lessons,” she reflected.
“Coming home was about applying those lessons, cherishing what I have, and sharing them with others — to inspire those around me,” she said warmly.
Through her experiences, Bao Yen discovered her new aspiration — not only to keep learning, but also to inspire others. She hopes more HUFLIT students will realize that opportunities are never too far away — they begin the moment you dare to take off.
The Third Flight – From HUFLIT to the World
The 2025 Graduation Ceremony marked an important milestone in Bao Yen’s university journey — the moment she boarded her third flight of youth: the one taking off from HUFLIT, soaring toward new horizons.
For Bao Yen, life after graduation is an open-ended journey — where every destination brings new opportunities to learn and grow.
“After years of studying at HUFLIT and experiencing international environments, I’ve realized that there is no final destination. Each step I take helps me better understand my abilities, my values, and my dreams,” Bao Yen shared.
Saying goodbye to HUFLIT on her graduation day, Bao Yen expressed heartfelt gratitude — to her university, to herself, and to all who had walked beside her during these meaningful years.
“If HUFLIT were an airport, then before taking off into my next journey, I would just like to say one word: thank you.
Thank you, HUFLIT, for giving me the chance to step into the world, move beyond my comfort zone, and grow each day.
Thank you to my lecturers — especially Ms. Lan Huong, Ms. Bich Ngoc, and Ms. My Hoan — for always believing in me, inspiring me, and accompanying me throughout this journey.
And thank you to my friends, for being part of my beautiful youth — both at HUFLIT and during my exchange trip to Korea.”
The university journey has come to an end, and the flights of youth are ready for takeoff. Some will continue their studies, some will pursue their dream careers, and others — like Bảo Yến — will “travel far to return” as better versions of themselves. Yet no matter where they go, HUFLIT will always be their first airport — the place that nurtures dreams and gives wings to generations of students.
