Female chef in her 60s returns to school to learn her trade, receives opportunity to study in Hungary

Notably, she is one of five students from Saigontourist College of Tourism and Hospitality selected to participate in an exchange and study program in Hungary.

Returning to apprenticeship at age 53

Sharing about this seemingly “against-the-flow” decision, Ms. Que frankly said: “Going to work is to earn a living, but to have a stable career, you have to constantly study to fill the gap in knowledge.” Having been involved in the kitchen for many years, she has a wealth of practical experience, but in her heart there is still a void because she has not received formal training or vocational training since she was young.

“In the past, due to family circumstances, I had to worry about food and money so I didn’t have the opportunity to study properly. Now that my life and work are more stable, I still have a desire to study, so I went back to school to learn a trade. Studying with young people doesn’t make me feel left behind, but on the contrary, I feel younger and more active like them, and I also have the advantage of experience to compare and contrast, and have a more youthful perspective. I find it very interesting and enjoyable,” Ms. Que confided.

Nữ bếp trưởng U60 trở lại giảng đường học nghề, chớp cơ hội sang Hungary học tập - Ảnh 1. — Ms. Que is one of 5 students of Saigontourist College of Tourism and Hospitality selected to participate in the exchange and study program in Hungary.

The biggest dream that Ms. Que has cherished for many years is to practice and experience international cuisine , something she once thought was only for young people. She excitedly said: "I want to directly experience European cuisine to satisfy my passion, and later be able to pass on my knowledge and experience to the next generation, so I registered for an interview for this trip to Hungary."

To prepare for the trip to Hungary to exchange, study and gain experience, Ms. Que proactively arranged her work and family, while improving her English, exercising and maintaining her spirit. For her, the professional experience accumulated over many years is a valuable asset, but only when combined with a foundation of specialized knowledge can she truly mature in her career.

The appearance of Ms. Que in the group of students going to Hungary this time is not only a personal story, but also a testament to the spirit of lifelong learning, inspiring that: learning is never too late.

Going to work is to earn a living, but to have a stable career, you must constantly study to fill the gap in knowledge.

Ms. NGUYEN THI QUE

Cultural bridging through exchange programs

On the evening of September 22, Ms. Que and a group of 4 students and 1 lecturer from Saigontourist College of Tourism and Hospitality went to Hungary to participate in the teacher and student exchange program between the school and Békéscsaba Vocational Training Center (Hungary). The program lasts one month, from September 22 to October 21, 2025.

According to Ms. Vo Thi My Van, Principal of the school, the criteria for selecting students are not only based on professional skills but also on love for the profession, because they are the representatives of the school when going abroad. In addition, students need to have basic English skills to communicate, ensuring good integration into the learning and living environment in Europe.

During this trip, the students will mainly study culinary arts and baking techniques. In Hungary, the students will study theory, visit and practice at hotels, and experience dormitory life at the Békéscsaba Vocational Training Center. “In particular, the cultural and culinary exchanges will be an opportunity for Vietnamese students to introduce traditional dishes such as pho, broken rice, and spring rolls to international friends, and at the same time learn how to prepare Hungarian dishes,” added Master Van.

Nữ bếp trưởng U60 trở lại giảng đường học nghề, chớp cơ hội sang Hungary học tập - Ảnh 2. — 5 students and 1 lecturer before leaving for Hungary

By participating in the program, students will be responsible for their own airfare and visa fees. The school will cover all procedures, accommodation and travel expenses in Hungary, which will be paid by the host school, in the spirit of bilateral exchange. When the Hungarian lecturers and students come to Vietnam, the school will also ensure similar policies.

“Every year, the two sides exchange 6 students and teachers. Previously, the school also welcomed a delegation of lecturers and students from the Békéscsaba Vocational Training Center to Vietnam for a visit and experience,” added Master Van.

Besides Hungary, we also expand international cooperation with many countries. A typical example is the signing with ITHQ Academy (Canada). In 2025, the school welcomed Canadian lecturers and students to Vietnam, and in the near future will continue to open up the direction of sending Vietnamese students to study in Canada.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nu-bep-truong-u60-tro-lai-giang-duong-hoc-nghe-nhan-co-hoi-sang-hungary-hoc-tap-185250922221209583.htm