Stories

Meet Mai Chi, one of our excellent alumni who has experienced a long journey aboard.

Despite starting as a shy English speaker, Mai Chi has explored the world – from Indonesia to New Zealand and now the UK. Her journey of working abroad, returning with academic qualifications, and building a new life in London is truly inspiring

Let’s hear her story of embracing new experiences in these photos!

We believe each alum has a unique story to share. Don’t hesitate to tell us yours – these stories connect us as a community.

Sharing her journey after graduation, Chi said:

“After graduating from BUV, I joined Heineken’s Asian Pacific Graduate Program, a two-year program by Heineken, which offered a unique opportunity to work in two countries in the region for six months each. I had the chance to experience the vibrant city of Jakarta, Indonesia, and the stunning Auckland, New Zealand. Living abroad had always been a dream, and this program provided the perfect way to make it a reality.

Living abroad was undeniably rewarding, though it came with its challenges. Moving thousands of miles away from home and living in a foreign land, separated from family and friends, can be a lonely experience.

During my time here, I’ve learned to take care of myself when I’m sick, improve my cooking skills, and explore Vietnamese food recipes. Cultural differences occasionally led to confusion, but I’ve been adapting and learning continuously. Adapting to a new language, culture, and level of independence was a significant learning curve, especially during my initial experience of living away from home. However, these initial hurdles only served to enrich my experience. Immersing myself in new cultures, meeting fascinating people, making new friends, and exploring breathtaking locations greatly broadened my knowledge and appreciation for the world.

After five fulfilling years at Heineken, I decided to pursue further education. In 2022, I started my master’s degree in the UK. Now, nearly two years after moving here, I recently started a new role for a company based in London after finishing my MBA degree. This is a new chapter of my life and my career that I am really excited about.”

As Mai Chi looks back on her incredible journey, she cherishes many milestones along the way:

“My living-abroad journey began with a pivotal decision more than 10 years ago: choosing BUV for my undergraduate degree. During my three years there, I saw myself develop and grow. My English, which used to make me feel shy and hesitant, transformed into a means of fluent communication. Studying in an international environment where English is the norm became second nature to me.

The next milestone was joining Heineken instead of immediately pursuing a master’s degree. This decision opened doors to working abroad and sparked my interest in marketing and people development. These five years were crucial in shaping my career path.

Finally, my most recent milestone involved a decision to return to academia. After a fulfilling time at Heineken, I felt ready to expand my knowledge and gain exposure to comprehensive business aspects. This decision ultimately led me to come to the UK to pursue higher education.”

When asked about the main differences between working in Vietnam and working abroad, Chi shared:

“My experience working for an international corporation back in Vietnam has been incredibly beneficial in navigating the fast-paced, dynamic environment here in London. My previous position at Heineken has helped me adapt quickly to the new environment and overcome cultural barriers when working with colleagues from diverse nationalities.

The leadership shift in my new role is a whole new adventure. In Vietnam, I excelled in a more directive leadership style, whereas here in London, collaboration is key. Leading my new Gen Z team from the US presents a unique opportunity. I’m eager to leverage my Vietnamese work ethic and cultural understanding to bridge the gap, while also learning from their innovative Gen Z perspectives.

Adapting my leadership style to London’s collaborative way of working is an exciting challenge. I’m looking forward to fostering open communication and empowering my team to bring their best ideas to the table. This allows me to learn and grow alongside them.”

Sharing some important values that Vietnamese students should have when they go abroad, she said:

“Embrace an open-minded spirit and cultural curiosity. It’s important to actively research the customs, traditions, and history of your host country. Approach new experiences and perspectives with a desire to learn and grow.

Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone – explore the hidden corners of your new home, try unfamiliar foods, and participate in local activities. This adventurous spirit will not only deepen your understanding of the world but also create lasting memories and broaden your horizons. Consider mastering a third language as well, as this additional skill can further enrich your experience and open doors to new opportunities.

My experience studying and living abroad ignited a passion for learning and broadened my perspective in ways I never imagined. If you have a secret desire to explore new horizons through living abroad, don’t let fear hold you back from pursuing this incredible opportunity. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”