Graduated as valedictorian to fulfill deceased friend's dream

After graduating with a degree in environmental science in 2016, Mr. Nam worked as an employee at a printing company in Ho Chi Minh City. After more than 2 years of working there, he decided to give up his stable job to pursue a career in pharmacy.

Recalling the reason for changing direction, Mr. Nam shared: "During my work, I had the opportunity to research and refer to many documents related to the health field. Gradually, I developed a special interest in medicine and medicinal herbs. Coincidentally, at that time, I had a close friend from middle school who also wanted to study pharmacy. After a long time of careful consideration, we both applied together."

Mr. Le Minh Nam (left) became valedictorian at the age of 30.

It was thought that these two best friends would have many interesting experiences together on their new journey, but during the admission process, Nam's friend unfortunately passed away. The promise to become pharmacists together was unfinished, only Nam continued on alone. From then on, he was determined to strive for himself and for his friend.

At the end of his first year of university, Nam planned to study ahead, registered for courses and arranged a specific timetable. "In my first year, I combined studying at school with doing other jobs outside to earn extra income. In my second year, the curriculum became heavier due to studying ahead, so I focused mainly on studying. Difficulties were inevitable at that time," Nam said.

Sharing his study method to become valedictorian, Nam smiled and said: "Actually, I don't have any special secret. I just take advantage of my time in class to focus on listening to the teacher's lecture, and if I don't understand something, I raise my hand and ask right away, not letting the question linger in my mind for too long. When I get home, I spend time researching documents and finding other hobbies to entertain myself."

Mr. Nam's graduation thesis with the topic "Survey of factors affecting the decision to buy non-prescription drugs of customers in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City" achieved 9.5 points and was highly appreciated by the lecturer. To get that result is a process of trying, trying and a bit reckless of this young man when choosing to do the thesis in English.

Commenting on this special valedictorian, Master, Pharmacist Ngo Ngoc Anh Thu, Head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Business Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, shared: "Although Nam started studying later than some other students, he has outstanding academic achievements and is a shining example for many people to follow. He is very persistent, has a progressive mindset and good ability to self-study knowledge. Those qualities will be valuable assets to help Nam develop better in the future. Hopefully, Nam will always try to become a bright spot in the field he has chosen."

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tot-nghiep-thu-khoa-de-thuc-hien-uoc-mo-cua-nguoi-ban-qua-co-18523082219465685.htm