On July 28, 2020, amidst the controlled pandemic situation in Vietnam, the University of Engineering and Technology, VNUH, organized a remarkable in-person Graduation Ceremony for the class of 2020.
Despite the prevailing health concerns, attendees prioritized safety by wearing masks throughout the event.
Graduands queueing up to enter the auditoriumOne of the cherished moments from that day was when I proudly received my certificate from the Dean of UET.
Me receiving my certificate from the Dean of UET and Head of Department of Computer Science
I also took the opportunity to capture memories with my classmates, with whom I was grateful to have shared many classes and activities. It's been my honor to have been a part of this journey with them.
Front row, from left: CuongNM, HungPD, GiangNT, Duc-Anh, GiangTT, HungPT, Hoang Ngo, HungLV. Back row: Giang Hoang, HoangNV, Xuan-Anh, Hoang Le, HoangDV, Hieu, Linh, CuongNXV, Khai, Tuan-Anh Do, Tuan-Anh Dao, Midu.Additionally, my scholarship hunting group, gathered for a group photo to celebrate our achievements together. We've been helping each other study and ace high scores for many courses, and also ace many scholarships spots.
From left: HoangDV, CuongNM, Hoang Le, HoangNV, Xuan-Anh, CuongNXV, Hoang Ngo, Hieu, Midu, Giang Hoang, Khai.Having a keen interest in Machine Learning, we formed a closely-knit group that shared the same passion. During a special gathering, we seized the opportunity to capture a memorable moment together.
The Five FrogsAmong the attendees was my close friend Hoang, who was already pursuing a PhD scholarship at SMU back in 2020 (he has been a PhD student there since 2022). We happily shared a cherished moment together.
With HoangAnother significant person in attendance was Midu, now Algorithm Engineer at TikTok Singapore, from whom I learned a lot.
With MiduA special shoutout to Giang Hoang, who joined Meta UK (July 2025). Giang was the one who originally steered us toward Machine Learning when we were choosing our topic back in the summer of 2017, and we've both come a long way since then.
With Giang HoangFinally, the most significant person in my life, my beloved partner, whom I married in 2022 and who has been my unwavering support for almost a decade, stood by my side during this momentous occasion.
With my wifeWith my wife, another pose
The entire day was filled with joy, camaraderie, and a sense of accomplishment, making it an unforgettable celebration of our achievements and friendships.
Starting college in a new city, a completely new environment from my high school years, I experienced and learned a lot. I will always appreciate and cherish everyone who made this journey possible, with unconditional support from family. As I embark on the next chapter of my academic journey, I am excited to begin my PhD studies at Singapore Management University, an incredible opportunity that would not have been possible without the enormous guidance, mentorship, and support of Dr. Mai-Vu Tran and Dr. Duc-Trong Le. Their unwavering belief has been instrumental in helping me achieve this milestone, and I am deeply grateful for their continued support. As I look ahead to this new adventure, I hope for a smooth and fulfilling journey, filled with meaningful discoveries, inspiring collaborations, and continued growth. May this next chapter bring exciting research opportunities and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the field I'm passionate about.
