My name is Duong Thi Huynh Nhu. I was born into a family that works in agriculture. Our household income depends on my father, as my mother is sick and not able to work hard. In 2015 I was admitted to An Giang University, and my family was happy and worried. At that time, it would be very difficult for my parents to send three children to schools.  I considered staying at home and getting a job to help them. However, my desire was so strong that despite every hardship, my parents still told me to continue my study to get a successful career and later come back to my hometown and help my family. Eventually, I went to university, which made me and my family very .

In the first year of the University, I couldn’t join extracurricular activities as they might cost much money and could make the financial burden on my parents’ shoulders heavier. Fortunately, during working a part-time job in summer 2016, I received the Teillon-Ludlow scholarship, which really surprised me and made me feel like I was on cloud nine.

Since the day I was awarded with the scholarship, my life turned over a new leaf. The scholarship not only supported me financially, but it was also a source of motivation and inspiration. Studying Agricultural development required me to join in many field trips, and with the help of the scholarship, I no longer could not participate in these activities.  I even suggested ideas for other events and meetings. I also engaged in research and competitions more frequently. Besides, the scholarship also introduced me to necessary skills training courses that taught me how to manage my time, write a CV and balance my time between work and family. This has created a strong foundation for me to move forwards.

At the moment, I am working in a start-up about agricultural products. I have utilized expertise as well as my own experience in my job, and I never stop broadening my horizons.

The scholarship has always been a great source of motivation for not only me but other students as well. I hope that in the future, the scholarship program will help more students who have the same background as me.

 I want to thank Mr. Marc Teillon and Mrs. Meredith Ludlow, The Asia Foundation, Center for Education and Development in the sincerest way for supporting us!

Sincerely,

Duong Thi Huynh Nhu