Nguyễn Hữu Khoa, a student from the Institute of Finance and Accounting, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (IUH), graduated as the Valedictorian of the Finance–Accounting program with an impressive GPA of 3.56/4.0 in 2025.
Khoa proudly holds his “Five-Good Student” Certificate awarded by IUH for his outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements
Throughout his three years at IUH, Khoa consistently adhered to his personal motto:
“Learn thoroughly, master deeply.”
He never studied to pass exams; instead, he focused on understanding each concept and connecting theory to real-world applications in finance and investment. This dedicated approach enabled him to complete his program one semester early and graduate with top honors from the Institute of Finance and Accounting.
Passion and Clear Direction — The Keys to Conquering University Life
From a young age, Khoa had a fascination with numbers and the stock market. During high school, he was curious about why stock prices fluctuate, how businesses operate, and how finance drives economic balance. This curiosity naturally led him to pursue a professional path in investment and securities analysis.
While studying in Đắk Lắk, Khoa frequently read reputable financial news sources and researched universities with strong finance programs. He discovered that IUH’s Institute of Finance and Accounting offers a practice-oriented curriculum, a dynamic learning environment, and close connections with businesses, particularly in the investment sector. Those advantages inspired Khoa to choose IUH as the starting point for his journey in finance and securities.
Having the right direction from the beginning, combined with a perfect match between his interests and abilities, helped Khoa study with passion, consistently achieve high results, and derive joy from learning as a trustworthy source of happiness.
Discipline, Critical Thinking, and Lifelong Learning — The Path to Becoming Valedictorian
For Khoa, effective learning doesn’t mean studying more but studying smarter—by managing time wisely and maintaining strict self-discipline. He divides his schedule into focused blocks: absorbing core knowledge in class, reviewing and practicing at night, and reading financial reports and market analyses during leisure hours.
In 2023, Khoa participated in the volunteer program “Golden Moon of Sharing” organized by his institute. He shared that engaging with Youth Union and Student Association activities helped him become more confident, resilient, and socially aware
Discussing his study habits, Khoa said: “Throughout my three years at IUH, I’ve followed the principle ‘learn thoroughly, master deeply’ — not rushing to pass but striving to truly understand and relate theory to real finance and investment practices. I also follow my own ‘three-no rule’: No procrastination – No superficial studying – No stopping self-improvement.”
Khoa’s habit of reading financial news, tracking the market, and learning from experienced professionals has sharpened his independent thinking and self-learning skills. He firmly believes that “luck comes only to those who truly make an effort.” Perseverance, self-discipline, and a clear sense of purpose have guided him to his current success.
During his studies, Khoa not only maintained excellent academic performance but also actively joined academic competitions to gain practical experience. He participated in IUH’s Student Scientific Research Competition in Accounting–Auditing, earning a Certificate of Achievement (2023–2024) — a valuable opportunity to develop critical thinking and apply theoretical knowledge in authentic contexts.
Khoa also received the title “Five-Good Student” (academics, ethics, physical fitness, volunteerism, and integration) for the 2023–2024 academic year and was commended by IUH’s Party Committee as a Party Member with Outstanding Performance in 2024.
Reflecting on his journey, Khoa shared emotionally: “I entered university with uncertainty, but thanks to Youth Union activities and exposure to finance, I gradually became more confident, proactive, and certain about my chosen path. I’m deeply grateful to my parents, lecturers, and friends for their constant encouragement and support. The valedictorian title is not just a personal achievement — it’s a tribute to everyone who believed in me and walked with me throughout my student life.”
Khoa is currently working as a securities consultant at a financial company, where he gains hands-on experience in market operations, corporate analysis, and investor psychology. The fast-paced environment has helped him develop quick, data-driven decision-making skills that no textbook can fully convey.
Looking ahead, Khoa aspires to advance his career in professional investment analysis and securities brokerage. With his solid academic foundation, growth mindset, and practical experience, he believes he can steadily establish himself as a capable and reputable financial expert in Vietnam’s dynamic market.
