Like cactus branches

This was the first internationalized thesis defense session of the Department of Vietnamese Studies and Vietnamese Language, although for decades the Department had produced many foreign graduates in Vietnamese Language and Culture. Ten Vietnamese students and three students from other countries presented their research results to the committee after a long period of serious work under the guidance of lecturers from within and outside the department. This year, the research focused on pressing practical issues such as aspects of life interacting with socio-economic and cultural changes and sustainable development, and transnational communities… Not only were many theses by domestic students impressive, but the research by foreign students also surprised with its novelty and scientific content. The reports all attracted lively and insightful discussions, helping students to further refine their research and supporting the direction of subsequent generations of students.

For full-time students, the general policy of the Department of Vietnamese Studies and Vietnamese Language is to be both strict and supportive. Throughout their studies, students receive close attention and are encouraged to share their difficulties and problems so that faculty can assist in finding solutions. During thesis defenses, all contributions and efforts of students are highly valued and respected. This is because it is their first product, the culmination of their learning and reflections over a long and challenging period in the classroom.

Student life is a time of brilliance and happiness, but also many hardships. Not only do students have to overcome dozens of courses and stressful exams, but they also face many difficulties and obstacles of living independently away from home. Many have to work hard part-time for meager wages to supplement their living expenses. However, the majority of students still proactively strive to improve themselves, from knowledge to life skills. Many students have found jobs at large companies even before receiving their degrees. Many students have prepared well for their next academic path. For the Faculty and the lecturers, this is the greatest reward.

Lao students congratulate you on successfully defending your graduation thesis.

After the ceremony, to express their gratitude to their teachers, the K57 students presented a special gift: small potted cacti to place on their desks to "protect against UV rays from computers." One teacher admired the tiny potted plants and said, "Students are like cactus branches, aren't they? They don't succumb to any difficulties. If they happen to fall, they will take root, sink deep into the soil, and become a new cactus." This was both an affirmation and a wish for a bright future, full of new opportunities and challenges, from the Faculty to the K57 graduates of Vietnamese Studies who were about to receive their degrees.