Q&A with Nhung
How did you find Caldwell University?
I learned about Caldwell in a very unexpected way and I could never be thankful enough for having the opportunity to make this place my home away from home for the last two years. My sister heard about Caldwell from her boss and advised me to apply to the school. Without any hesitation, I looked it up and immediately fell in love with Caldwell’s liberal arts community.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University??
The benefit of being a Caldwell student is everything that Caldwell has to offer—the small class sizes with a great student/faculty ratio, the priority put on community services, the friendly town that is within walking distance from campus, and especially the convenient location that allows students to explore New York City within a one-hour drive.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
It is a small place yet it is full of support and friendship. It’s where I can confidently raise my voice knowing I will be heard and understood.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
Through the pandemic, I have learned that “if there’s a will, there’s a way”. I never imagined I would leave Caldwell in the middle of the semester, pack all my belongings from two years within a night, and study remotely from across the globe in Vietnam for months later. I did not get to say goodbye to my friends because everything happened so abruptly yet the unfortunate situation somehow pulled us closer together and I never felt like I was living away from my friends in the U.S, thanks to social media and other communication platforms. Despite the 11-hour difference, I have managed to stay up in the middle of the night, usually until 1 a.m. or even 3 a.m. to participate in remote classes. I truly appreciate the opportunities to continue my education, to stay safe at home with my family, and to share important moments with my close friends. Living through a time of uncertainty, I have learned to stay positive and always be on the outlook for a solution.
Plans after graduation?
After graduation, I would like to work in the technology industry as an engineer, most preferably for Fintech or Edtech corporations. I am the type of person who is willing to learn and explore new things. I also try not to limit myself to any standards or any specific positions. I believe experimentation is what will help me grow and be flexible in any situation.
Factoid or fun fact about your life in your home country?
I have lived my whole life in the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, one of the biggest and most important cities in Vietnam. Like many other young people, I love driving motorbikes around the city with my friends, exploring hundreds of vintage coffee shops or hidden alleys full of delicious street foods.