In line with its mission to foster well-rounded development and recognize outstanding role models within the student community, the School of International Education at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law has recently concluded the selection process for the 2024–2025 Special Scholarship Awards. Among the honorees of the “Literary ZUEL” Scholarship for Chinese Learning is NGUYEN NGOC HUYEN (阮玉玄), a Vietnamese undergraduate student from the School of Business Administration, majoring in Marketing.
For Huyen, Chinese is more than a subject—it is “a key that unlocks understanding of China, and a bridge connecting my homeland to this new shore.” Her journey from a beginner to a proficient speaker reflects not only academic dedication but also a deep, growing affection for the culture embedded within the language.
Upon receiving the scholarship, Huyen shared her heartfelt appreciation: “I feel immensely honored and excited. This award recognizes not only my progress but also the persistence behind it.” She credits her systematic university coursework, combined with consistent self-study and practice, for helping her overcome challenges and make breakthrough progress in all areas of language competence.
She also expressed gratitude toward her teachers and the School of International Education for their patient guidance and continuous support, as well as to ZUEL for “providing an open and encouraging learning environment that allows me to explore, improve, and grow.”
A Learning Journey Fueled by Cultural Curiosity
When asked what fascinates her most about Chinese, Huyen points to the rich cultural layers within the language. “Whether it’s the structure of characters, the stories behind idioms, or the ways of thinking reflected in daily expressions—I find it all captivating,” she says.
Her approach combines input and output: immersing herself in Chinese articles and videos to develop a natural sense of the language, while actively practicing speaking and writing in real-life contexts. She also keeps a dedicated notebook for tracking errors and confusing vocabulary, reviewing it regularly to solidify her understanding.
Balancing Language and Major Studies in a Cross-Cultural Setting
As an international student, Huyen has learned to integrate language learning with her academic responsibilities. “I try to use Chinese when researching materials, completing assignments, or engaging in class discussions related to my major,” she explains. This dual-focused strategy allows her to strengthen both her professional knowledge and language skills simultaneously.
She also emphasizes the importance of structured planning and flexibility. “I set clear priorities for each study phase and adjust my pace during busier periods to keep progress steady and sustainable.”
Looking Ahead with Passion and Purpose
Huyen’s experience has taught her that “with enough patience and passion, a language becomes a vital bridge between cultures.” As her proficiency grows, so does her admiration for Chinese linguistic beauty and cultural depth.
Moving forward, she aims to maintain her enthusiasm for Chinese learning and to share her positive experiences with others. “I believe true passion and perseverance can light the way toward our dreams,” Huyen reflects—a testament to the determined and culturally engaged spirit that defines ZUEL’s global students.
The “Literary ZUEL” Scholarship for Chinese Learning is one of several awards presented annually by the School of International Education to encourage excellence, innovation, and active engagement among international students at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law.
