Vinh Nguyen from Vietnam: Majoring in Finance and Accounting With a Minor in Economics at Northern State University

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

USA is the land of opportunity. No matter where you are from, if you can create your competitive edge and keep working hard to reach your goal, the surrounding environment in the U.S. will take you to success.

Why did you choose Northern State University?

The first thing I found attractive about Northern State (NSU) was the low tuition fee. Second, was the school’s small population compared to a public school, so I figured that I would receive the utmost attention from the professors for a reasonable tuition fee.

What do you like best?

The finance program of NSU is very comprehensive, as you will get to learn everything from the basics of accounting and economics to corporate finance, international finance, etc. Better yet, the majors are similar in core, yet still have some differences, so you can likely double or even triple your major but you still don’t have to go over your budget.

What do you miss most?

I really miss my family and the food from where I from.

What was your biggest surprise?

The most surprising thing was the care the professors give to the student. They will go over things with you side-by-side to make sure you get everything out of the lesson.

How have you handled:

... language differences?

I am fortunate to be able to command the language fluently as I had a long time learning and practicing it back home.

... finances?

I finance my education through savings and scholarships.

... adjusting to a different educational system?

I understand that there will be a lot of self-studying in the U.S., even though the professors will be with you any time you need them. Self-learning will help you achieve success in the U.S., or anywhere that might be.

What are your activities?

I am a member of Friends from Afar program which allocates you with a host family that fits your profile. I also participate in the Student Association, the Honors Program, as well as the school newspaper, The Exponent.

How easy or difficult was making friends?

It is very easy to make friend here in the U.S. Be confident and keep that smile up.

How relevant is your U.S. education to your personal goals and to the needs of your country? 

I want to become a financial analyst in the future and the U.S. is the best place in the world to learn and to practice the skills as the U.S. financial system is the most comprehensive one in the world. Everything is definitely cohesive.

What is your advice to other students who are considering a U.S. education?

Take the leap of faith and go outside your zone and discover the world. You may not know what you want to do with your long life, but go and learn something new every day and it will likely take you to whatever goal you have.