How a Vietnamese Scholar Won the Fully Funded Silk Road Scholarship to Pursue an MBA at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law (ZUEL) in China

Xin chào mọi người!!!! My name is Hoang Minh Triet, and I’m from Hanoi, Vietnam. I recently graduated from Hanoi University (HANU) with a major in International Studies, specializing in International Relations. During the early years of my university journey, I was fortunate to gain hands-on experience through internships and part-time jobs across various fields. I worked in a variety of fields: communications for social projects, broadcast journalism, marketing and promotion for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ventured into entrepreneurship and business development, and even as a dancer!

These diverse experiences sparked my passion for becoming a social enterprise developer - someone who not only contributes to market-driven business growth but also addresses social challenges through non-profit solutions. This career aspiration is the driving force behind my decision to pursue an MBA program at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law (ZUEL) with the Silk Road Scholarship, where I hope to further sharpen my skills and expand my impact.

Silk Road Scholarship Details

The One Silk Road Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded award offered by Zhongnan University of Economics and Law (ZUEL) under the framework of the Chinese Government’s Belt and Road Initiative 2025-2026. This scholarship covers full tuition, on-campus accommodation, and a monthly living.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

ARICE - Romanian Government Scholarship 2024, jointly awarded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education of Romania. This prestigious scholarship includes full tuition, housing, a monthly stipend, and health insurance. It also provides a one-year Romanian language preparatory course. I was honored to be the only Vietnamese student awarded this scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Hanoi University (HANU), Vietnam, with a final GPA that ranked in the average range of my class. While I did not graduate at the top academically, my university experience helped shape me into a well-rounded candidate and prepared me for further study in business, culture, and development.

My academic journey was not a conventional one. I began university during the global outbreak of COVID-19, a time when online learning posed serious challenges to concentration and comprehension. Yet, this difficult period gave me space to explore new interests and gain real-world experience beyond the classroom. I actively engaged in extracurricular and community development projects in areas such as human rights, sustainability, dance, and digital media (Hanoi Pride 2020&2022 (Communications & Internal Assistant), Bila 2020 (Media Member), HanuTimes 2021&2022 (MC & Radio Member), Stronger Together Summit 2020 (Scholar), Takowaki Dance Battle Crew 2024&2025(Co-founder, Head of Media & Finance)…)

Moreover, I was selected as one of three students to represent my university in an exchange semester at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, where I was inspired by postgraduate students and scholars. That experience pushed me to pursue graduate study seriously and also helped strengthen my communication skills and cross-cultural adaptability.

Two of my proudest achievements were being named Second Runner-up in the “Faculty of International Studies (FIS) Ambassador - Queen of Hearts” competition at Hanoi University in 2021, and CHAMPION - VUG DANCE BATTLE 2024 with my team – Takowaki Dance Battle Team

I also gained one year of hands-on experience as a digital news assistant at VNEWS - Vietnam News Agency, where I applied knowledge of politics, culture, and society learned in class to real-world journalism. Additionally, working with several start-ups and social enterprises in Vietnam gave me valuable insight into the dynamic nature of young businesses and the challenges they face in the local and regional markets. These experiences sparked my interest in understanding how innovative business models can create both economic and social value.

In short, while my academic scores alone may not appear outstanding, my undergraduate journey provided me with the practical mindset, leadership skills, and social perspective necessary for the field I’m pursuing. My time at HANU truly embodied its motto: "HANU brings you to the world" - and prepared me not just to apply for an MBA program in Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, China, but to thrive in it.

How Did You Find Information About Silk Road Scholarships and Institutions?

I found out about the scholarship and the institution thanks to a university friend who was already studying at ZUEL under the same government scholarship.

He not only guided me through the application process but also genuinely inspired me with his story. Seeing how the program helped him grow - both academically and personally - made me believe that I could follow the same path. His support gave me the motivation and confidence to apply.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I took the IELTS test and achieved a score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each band.
I didn’t prepare intensively for it because I had already spent four years studying my undergraduate program entirely in English. This academic background gave me the confidence and ability to meet the required score without extensive preparation.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Silk Road Scholarship?

I prepared my scholarship application within just two months, although the CSC Scholarship was not my initial plan when considering studying abroad. Originally, I planned to pursue a Master's degree in a European country. However, when the opportunity arose to study in China, one of the most influential countries in Asia, I didn’t hesitate to seize it. I saw it as a chance to deepen my understanding of the culture, people, and dynamics of a neighboring nation. With strong support from mentors, friends, and alumni who had gone through the process before me, I focused all my efforts on crafting a solid study plan, obtaining the necessary documents and health checks, and preparing language certificates. Despite the short time frame, I poured my heart into every step - including many late-night mock interviews- and in the end, I was grateful to receive the opportunity.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

- To be honest, if you only looked at my GPA and certificates, my application wasn’t particularly impressive on paper. However, during the interview, I faced two key questions that I believe made or broke my chances: "Why is your undergraduate GPA not outstanding?" "Why did you choose an MBA despite coming from a different academic background?" My answer was to demonstrate the value of my real-world experience that related to business-marketing fields, my involvement in extracurriculars with social enterprises, and my commitment to interdisciplinary learning. I explained that my strength lies not only in academics, but in applying knowledge practically, and that I was ready to meet the challenges of a graduate program. I believe that honesty, clarity, and the ability to communicate my motivation and readiness helped my application stand out in the CSC Silk Road Scholarship process at ZUEL.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I had the opportunity to go through the process again, I would have focused more on my academic performance to improve my GPA. Additionally, I would have actively participated in more academic research projects and scientific activities to strengthen my foundation in critical thinking and research methodology.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice is: don’t dwell on the past or things you cannot change. Instead, focus on the present and what you can do to shape your future. If given the opportunity, show the selection committee how much this scholarship truly means to you. Be honest, be yourself, and let your story speak for you. Your unique journey and aspirations can be your strongest asset.