How a Vietnamese Scholar Earned the Samsung Global Hope Scholarship to Study Hospitality and Convention Management in South Korea

My name is Uyen Q. Nguyen, and I also go by Audrey. I am originally from Vietnam, where I began my academic journey as a sophomore in International Relations at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities of the National University of Ho Chi Minh City. During my time there, I joined an event club, which sparked a deep interest in the event industry and inspired me to change my career path. Driven by this newfound passion, I decided to pursue a Bachelor of Business Management with a specialization in Hospitality Management, majoring in Convention Management, at Kyung Hee University in Seoul, Korea. At Kyung Hee University, I received in-depth training in the field of hospitality, with a particular focus on conventions and events, equipping me with valuable knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic industry.

Samsung Global Hope Scholarship Details

I have been fortunate to receive several scholarships throughout my studies. From March 2019 onward, I was awarded the Samsung Global Hope Scholarship, issued by the Samsung Dream Scholarship Foundation. This scholarship program is designed to support international students from developing countries studying in Korea, empowering them to become future leaders who can contribute to the development of their home countries. The scholarship covers the full tuition fee for each semester, in addition to providing KRW 3,000,000 per semester for living expenses.

Before receiving the Samsung Global Hope Scholarship, I was also awarded the Academic Encouragement Scholarship from Kyung Hee University. This scholarship recognized honor students who maintained a GPA above 3.0 in the previous semester. The award provided KRW 3,000,000 per semester and supported me from my first semester until I became a recipient of the Samsung Global Hope Scholarship, as Kyung Hee University regulations allow students to receive only one type of scholarship at a time.

Educational Background

I was admitted to the School of Hospitality Management at Kyung Hee University, majoring in Convention Management, where I achieved a GPA of 4.24 out of 4.5. This program provided me with a strong and intensive foundation in hospitality and event management, with a particular focus on the convention sector. Building on this foundation, I continued my academic journey in Canada by pursuing a postgraduate certificate in Sports and Event Marketing at George Brown College, where I graduated with honours and a GPA of 3.79 out of 4.0.

This combination of degrees has thoroughly prepared me for a career in the event and marketing industries. My studies at Kyung Hee University equipped me with essential theoretical knowledge and skills in hospitality and convention management, while my postgraduate program at George Brown College offered me a valuable co-op term. Through this cooperative education experience, I was able to apply theoretical concepts to real-world industry settings, solidifying my practical skills and further shaping my professional path.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Kyung Hee University?

To prepare for applying to these institutions, I focused on meeting both the language proficiency and academic requirements. I achieved an IELTS score of at least 6.0 to gain admission to Kyung Hee University, and improved my score to 7.0 when applying to George Brown College, ensuring I met their English language standards. In addition, I maintained strong academic transcripts throughout my previous studies, which reflected my consistent dedication and academic performance.

Beyond academics, I developed a clear and structured study plan that aligned with my long-term career goals in the event and hospitality industry. This strategic approach allowed me to confidently present my academic achievements, language proficiency, and career vision when applying to each program.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Samsung Global Hope Scholarship?

To prepare for scholarship applications, I consistently kept myself updated on available opportunities by regularly checking the university website and communicating with the scholarship department. I carefully reviewed the eligibility criteria and requirements for each scholarship to ensure I met all necessary conditions.

Additionally, I sought advice from previous scholarship recipients to gain insights and tips on how to strengthen my application and increase my competitiveness. I made sure to prepare all required documents thoroughly and secured strong letters of recommendation from at least three of my university professors, whose support and endorsements added credibility and value to my application.

How Is (was) Your Experience at Kyung Hee University? 

My experience at the institution was excellent. The university provided extensive support services and dedicated centers for English-speaking and international students, which greatly helped me adapt and succeed. Additionally, studying at one of the top five hospitality schools in the world offered me high-quality education, valuable resources, and exposure to global industry standards. This enriching environment allowed me to grow both academically and personally, fully preparing me for my future career.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing the Native Language of the Country?

I would say that international students who do not know Korean may face some disadvantages. While many resources are available in English, there are still numerous scholarships, opportunities, and support services that are primarily offered in Korean and may not be fully accessible in English. Therefore, having at least a basic understanding of Korean would be beneficial to make the most of all available academic and extracurricular opportunities.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Several factors helped my application stand out. I maintained a strong GPA throughout my studies, which demonstrated consistent academic excellence. My English proficiency also met and exceeded requirements, showing my readiness to succeed in an international academic environment. In addition, I secured strong recommendation letters from my professors, which highlighted my skills, dedication, and potential.

I also developed a clear and thoughtful study plan that aligned with my long-term career goals, demonstrating my commitment and direction. Finally, I included a well-prepared explanation letter that effectively communicated my motivations and future aspirations, helping to present a complete and compelling picture of myself as a candidate.

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

If I were to go through the process again, I would invest more time in reading and researching a wider range of topics to broaden my knowledge and perspectives. This would have helped me polish and strengthen my essay even further, particularly for the second round of the scholarship screening, making my application even more competitive.

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

My advice would be to stay persistent and confident throughout the application process. Never overlook any opportunity, as scholarships can truly be once-in-a-lifetime chances. Maintain excellent academic performance and aim for the highest GPA possible. Continuously improve your English proficiency to meet and exceed requirements, and keep yourself informed about current global issues and trends. Finally, make sure to clearly showcase your strengths and articulate your goals, as a well-defined vision can make your application stand out.