Having loved and been dedicated to International Studies since her undergraduate days until completing her doctoral program at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Dr. Doan Thi Thu Huong shared her memories of her time with her professors and the university, as well as the difficulties a doctoral candidate must overcome to complete their studies…
If I were to talk about the field of International Studies that I love, it's an interdisciplinary field of study that tends to be based on the social sciences (political science, economics, sociology, law, and communication) and humanities (history, culture, and languages). The focus of international studies is on past and present global issues, including peace and conflict between nations, international political economy and development, comparisons of social, economic, and political systems, and research on international and transnational organizations and issues. In the context of increasing globalization and integration, in-depth study of international relations not only opens up opportunities to understand the world but also helps you gain a deeper understanding of cultures and civilizations, and discover lessons and experiences that can be applied to your own country.
My doctoral dissertation, "European Union Security and Defence Policy (2007-2019)," is a topic I have been passionate about and dedicated to researching since my student days, as it is a unique policy of a special regional institution. The dynamics of this policy impact not only the situation in Europe but also cause upheavals in global politics, especially since security and defence are extremely complex and sensitive areas, closely linked to issues of sovereignty and national interests.
It can be said that, through the analysis and evaluation of the practical implementation of the European Union's Common Security and Defence Policy (2007-2019), I have attempted to identify the distinctive characteristics of a specific security policy, while also forecasting its development trends up to 2025. This can be considered a new result and a contribution to the development of the field of international relations. The dissertation has been published as a monograph by the Social Sciences Publishing House for research and teaching purposes.
The doctoral program is not a bed of roses; it requires overcoming many challenges, such as managing time to focus on research and complete the dissertation successfully while also fulfilling work responsibilities and family life; and demonstrating determination and passion to find a satisfactory solution to the problem they have chosen to research with great dedication. Therefore, the doctoral program can be considered a "test" that lays the groundwork for individuals to hone their skills and develop the qualities of a true scientist.
Personally, I have been associated with the University of Social Sciences and Humanities for 14 years, from my early days as a freshman to completing my PhD program. For me, this is family, a second home – a place that has given me so much love and precious experiences.
For me, the learning and research process at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities includes moments of nervousness as I rushed to the faculty office with my books to ask my supervisor for guidance on my graduation thesis; the time when the entire specialized English class cried with red eyes as we had to say goodbye to our highly respected teacher at the end of the program; the evening graduate classes in building G with empty stomachs but enthusiastically debating about US foreign policy; the towering stacks of books in the library that we borrowed to do our research reviews; the times my whole class eagerly awaited the teacher's break because his lectures were so captivating; even the times we unexpectedly organized birthday celebrations for our teachers or when my class created an entire video explaining 7749 reasons for being late to class so that the teacher wouldn't punish us – all of these have become cherished memories…
It can be said, "When we are here, the land is where we are - When we leave, the land suddenly becomes our soul." The University of Social Sciences and Humanities is almost the place that has preserved my youth, enthusiasm, and also the gateway that opened up my passion and career path.
