Student Spotlight: Nguyen Phuong, Vietnam

Phuong, welcome! Let’s start with an introduction. Tell us about yourself.

Thank you! My name is Nguyen Phuong and I’m from Hanoi, Vietnam. I arrived in Russia in December 2024 to pursue a Master’s degree in business informatics at ITMO University. My background is in economics and international business and I’m passionate about exploring the digital economy. Outside academics, I love immersing myself in different cultures and experiences.

Hanoi is such a historic city. What was it like growing up there?

Hanoi is over a thousand years old and every street, every corner holds a story. I spent my childhood near Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature), also known as Quốc Tử Giám – Vietnam’s first university. My grandmother would take me for walks around Giám Lake in the evenings and my grandfather would bring me to touch the stone turtles’ heads – an old tradition believed to bring academic success. Some of my fondest memories are from the golden autumn afternoons, riding on the back of my grandfather’s motorbike, stopping for sweet chè at Ngô Thì Nhậm, and strolling through Lenin Park. To me, Hanoi isn’t just a city – it’s a part of who I am.

Before coming to Russia, where did you study?

I studied at the Foreign Trade University in Vietnam, majoring in economics and international business. It was there that I became interested in the digital economy, which eventually led me to pursue business informatics for my Master’s.

What made you choose Russia for your studies?

Russia has a strong reputation in science and technology and many influential Vietnamese figures have studied here. I once read a book that posed the question: What do Napoleon Bonaparte and Adolf Hitler have in common? Both sought to conquer Europe, but both fell before Russia. This country has a certain resilience and strength, and I wanted to experience and learn from it.

How did you discover ITMO?

ITMO is well known among Vietnamese students, as it has the largest Vietnamese student community in St. Petersburg. Many people were surprised when I chose a leading IT university for an economics-related field, but my program is a blend of both economics and technology. A senior who studied here before me introduced me to the program. She told me about the intense academic pressure, but also how it helped shape her into a stronger, more disciplined person. I’ve always believed that pressure creates diamonds, so I knew ITMO was the right place for me.

How has your experience been at ITMO so far?

It’s been exactly two months since I arrived and honestly, I’m still adjusting. The biggest change has been transportation. Back home, I traveled everywhere by motorbike, but here, I walk a lot. It’s good exercise, but I’m always rushing to get to class on time! Also, in Vietnam, my university was only three kilometers from home, so I never had to live away from my family. My mother always took care of me and now, for the first time, I have to do everything on my own. It hasn’t been easy, but I feel incredibly grateful for the support system I’ve found here – my roommate, my teachers, the student coordinators, and especially the Vietnamese student community at ITMO.

This was your first Tet (Vietnamese New Year) away from home. How did you celebrate?

It was a bittersweet experience. Tet is the most important celebration in Vietnam – a time for family, traditions, and reunions. Being away from home made me feel truly homesick for the first time. But then I realized something: we must leave home to know how much we love it. Instead of confining myself to nostalgia, I decided to embrace the new. I spent Tet with fellow Vietnamese students, sharing food, laughter, and stories. It wasn’t the same as being in Hanoi, but it was comforting to celebrate together.

What’s your favorite place in St. Petersburg so far?

Definitely Nevsky Prospekt. It’s the heart of the city, full of life, history, and beautiful architecture. Every time I walk there, I feel like I’m stepping into a different era.

And where are you living?

I live in the Vyazemsky dormitory. It’s been a good experience for me here and I’m lucky to have a great roommate.

Have you faced any major challenges since coming to Russia?

The cold was a shock! Coming from Vietnam’s tropical climate, I had never experienced such extreme temperatures before. Learning Russian has also been difficult, as the structure is completely different from Vietnamese. But every challenge is an opportunity to grow and I’m taking it one step at a time.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I enjoy walking around the city, taking in the architecture and history. I also love traveling and experiencing different cultures. Recently, I took part in the Russian Epiphany ice bath – it was terrifying but also exhilarating! I’ve also tried skiing, though I fell many times. Every experience teaches me something new about myself.

Have you traveled to other Russian cities yet?

I’ve been to Moscow and now I am in St. Petersburg. Both are fascinating in their own way – Moscow is fast-paced and modern, while St. Petersburg has a more historical and artistic charm.

Is there a Russian dish you’ve come to love?

I’ve tried Olivier salad, pelmeni, blini, and kompot. So far, I really enjoy Olivier salad and pelmeni. I’m planning to learn how to cook Russian dishes soon and in return, I’ll introduce my Russian friends to some of Hanoi’s specialties!

What are your plans for after graduation?

I plan to continue working in the digital economy field, ideally integrating business and IT. If possible, I would love to stay and work in Russia for some time to gain more experience. On the day of my departure, I don’t want to stand and stare wistfully at the city one last time, murmuring “if only.” Instead, I want to immerse myself in its vibrant cultural scene—to witness every play, every ballet, every musical performance this city has to offer.

What advice would you give to future ITMO students?

ITMO isn’t just a university – it’s a challenge, an opportunity, and an experience that will shape you. It’s intense, but it will push you to become better. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. A new city, a new self, a new journey!

Any last thoughts?

Peer pressure spreads like a disease, passing from one generation to the next. That is why, at my alma mater, we had a motto: Dare to be different, dare to lead. We often reminded each other: I believe that with just a 1% effort to conquer yourself every day, you will become a better version of yourself. I wish you all to become a better version of yourselves.