Stories

When Phuong Linh graduated from BUV in 2021, she stepped into the world of marketing at Garena with fresh ambition. Little did she know that her keen eye for analytics would lead her down an entirely different path – one that would take her from campaign planning to product ownership, from Hanoi to Saigon’s dynamic tech scene.

“My career path took an unexpected but incredibly rewarding turn,” Linh recalls, her eyes lighting up as she describes her early days at Garena. While managing marketing campaigns, she found herself increasingly drawn to the stories hidden in data and reports. It wasn’t just numbers – it was a window into user behavior, a way to truly understand what people needed.

“Thankfully, my manager recognized this passion,” she shares. “When he offered me a chance to transition into Product Operations, I knew it was a risk worth taking. For me, professional fulfillment comes from working on projects that excite me, and product ownership, with its focus on understanding user needs through data, was a perfect fit.”

The transition wasn’t without its challenges. Product operations demanded a whole new technical toolkit and industry knowledge. But Linh credits her BUV time for giving her the foundation to adapt quickly. “Those university modules weren’t just theory – they were practical tools. Even today, I find myself using presentation techniques from my BUV days, adapting them to communicate with different teams and stakeholders.”

Taking the Leap to Saigon

After mastering her new role at Garena, Linh faced another crossroads. “After nearly two years, I was hungry for more growth,” she explains. “When the opportunity came to join EZ Games, a game startup in Saigon, I knew it would push me out of my comfort zone – and that’s exactly what I needed.”

The move to Saigon tested more than just her professional skills. “There were moments of homesickness,” she admits. “But the excitement of building something from scratch, of working directly with developers and marketing teams to launch new products – it was worth every challenge. This experience became a source of immense professional pride.” 

Today, as a Product Owner at Zalo, Linh brings a unique perspective shaped by her experiences in both corporate giants and startups.

“In larger companies like Garena and Zalo, you might focus on a smaller scope within a larger product, backed by substantial budgets. But startups offer something different – greater freedom and decision-making power, even if resources are tighter. Each environment teaches you something valuable.”

Her current role at Zalo demands precision and attention to detail, but Linh thrives on the professional structure and clear growth path. “While it’s still a relatively new chapter for me, I’m embracing the opportunity to learn and grow every day.”  

Reflecting on her journey, Linh offers heartfelt advice for those considering a career pivot

“Explore as many opportunities as possible. Trust your instincts, and you’ll find your way.” She especially emphasizes the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities. If she had still worked with her original career plan, she might have missed discovering her passion for product ownership. Sometimes the best opportunities come disguised as challenges, she notes.

Linh’s journey from marketing graduate to product owner illustrates the evolving nature of careers in tech. Her story isn’t just about changing jobs – it’s about having the courage to follow your interests, even when they lead you in unexpected directions.

For recent graduates and young professionals, Linh’s path offers an inspiring example of how embracing change and trusting your instincts can lead to fulfilling career opportunities. Her journey continues to evolve, but one thing remains constant: her willingness to learn, adapt, and grow.

Got a story to tell your fellow alumni? Join us in inspiring the next generation by sharing your journey.