Why Vietnam? A strategic choice for a Dual-Degree program


Li Yifan, a 23-year-old student from China, is currently pursuing a dual-degree in Management at International School – Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU-IS). With a long-term plan to build his career in Vietnam and a one-year transfer to the United States ahead, Yifan views Vietnam as a strategic starting point—one that enables him to better understand a fast-growing market, strengthen his academic English, and gain meaningful international learning experience at VNU-IS.

Li Yifan - VNU-IS Student

Li Yifan, a 23-year-old international student from China at VNU-IS.

Vietnam through the lens of an international student

“My name is Li Yifan, I’m 23 years old and I’m from China.” Yifan is currently studying in the dual-degree Management program at VNU-IS, focusing on developing management knowledge to support his future career goals.

His decision to study in Vietnam is grounded in a practical connection: his mother runs an international trading company in Vietnam… he has witnessed Vietnam’s rapid economic growth and regards it as a market with strong potential.

More importantly, he has witnessed Vietnam’s rapid economic growth and regards it as a market with strong potential—an ideal place to build a foundation for his long-term professional plans.

Studying at VNU-IS

Yifan finds Vietnam an ideal place to build a foundation for his long-term professional plans.

A dual-degree pathway: building in Vietnam, expanding in the U.S.

For Yifan, the dual-degree program stands out because it closely aligns with his personal goals. Studying in Vietnam first allows him to adapt to local life, deepen his understanding of the market, and explore potential opportunities. The next step—transferring to the United States—offers access to broader academic resources and the opportunity to further expand his global perspective in management.

VNU-IS Campus Life

A well-designed pathway balancing practical exposure with solid academic preparation.

He describes this structure as a well-designed pathway for his long-term plan, balancing practical exposure in a dynamic environment with solid academic preparation for the next stage of international study.

An international learning environment and preparation for transfer

Yifan characterizes the learning environment at VNU-IS as “supportive and international.” He notes that the curriculum is clearly structured, up to date, and designed to integrate academic knowledge with practical skills. In class, lecturers encourage independent thinking, teamwork, and the analysis of real-world business cases.

Learning Environment at VNU-IS

Supportive international environment at VNU-IS with curriculum delivered entirely in English.

In addition, Yifan values the support VNU-IS provides for international students, including academic guidance, English-language support, assistance with student affairs and daily life, as well as cultural activities. With all courses delivered in English, he has seen clear improvement in academic communication, writing, and presentation skills—capabilities he considers essential for transitioning into the U.S. academic environment. At the same time, living and studying in Vietnam has helped him become more independent, adaptable, and open to cultural differences.

Hoang Anh