Study Plan: The Path for Career Development

I'm delighted to write this study plan. The industry is dynamic and growing rapidly. It has enormous employment opportunities worldwide. If someone is recognized, he or she opens the door to a variety of roles in the industry. I want to gain a systematic understanding of the theoretical and practical knowledge that is essential for career development.

Born in 1999 in Vietnam, I am 20 years old at the moment. After graduating from high school, I applied and was admitted to the Faculty of International Studies at Hanoi University. The Faculty of International Studies is quite large having nearly 18 full-time faculty members and more than 500 students. Hanoi University is an institution for foreign language training and research, which is one of Vietnam’s largest public universities and consistently ranks in the top ten schools in my country. Furthermore, its graduates are favored by the country's business leaders. During my first two years at Hanoi University, I studied many courses relevant to my degree, including Micro Economics, World History, Sociology, … and I realize I have been deeply interested in trade and economics since the time I first began studying such subjects. History – the study of the past and its implications – is most valuable as it provides research skills and improves my essay writing, as does Sociology has sharpened my ability to analyze in depth information that is crucial to management. It also helped me to appreciate the different needs of people in society, which I consider to be an important part of the business. Studying History alongside Economics has led me to realize that they are heavily intertwined.

It can be say that the subjects I am studying provide a good grounding in skills and knowledge for these two interrelated disciplines. Through my current study, I have learned how to manage my time effectively. In addition to my specialization, I spent a lot of time learning how to use computer software such as EXCEL and PowerPoint effectively. I also attended several classes in English since all of our courses used English as the primary language of instruction. English Language ensures that I can analyze and communicate both in spoken and in written mode clearly and effectively.

As a student majoring in International Studies, I believe that my field is fundamental to the progress of my country. But at the same time I know what I have learned is far from enough. The education I have received so far has been top notch in my country, but my acquired knowledge at school was limited and insufficient when it came to a real situation. Though my past experience in Hanoi University has given me plenty of opportunities to acquire important skills, such as cooperation and communication with other sectors to tackle problems or plan effectively, in an international professional context, I still lack of understanding about international markets, law and trade policy and its culture and customs as well as research skills in order to bring much-needed help for Vietnamese firms in joining global trade. It is therefore my wish to pursue a degree in International Economics and Trade.

With the rise of Vietnam and the monumental trend towards greater globalization seen in the world today, a bachelor degree in International Economics and Trade is essential. Our world is experiencing a fast-paced revolution in transportation and communications that is fully integrating the various economies around the globe. Not only is it important for managers to fully appreciate differences in cultures, one must also recognize that a successful business career requires a superb mastery of language, customs, laws, and international business principles. A bachelor degree in International Economics and Trade will provide me the basis I need to better solve the problems I will face later in life.

My plan during 4 academic years is to finish all required work during the early part of my studies. By studying and registering the courses and subjects follow the curriculum and fully attend classes, I will study hard under lecturer/facilitator’s instructions and participate actively in seminars, discussions, scientific reports or group meetings to improve and solve difficult problems in my field of study. At the same time, I will determine for myself the topic and carry out the research process for the thesis in the last year. The complementary method of learning is to find the necessary information in the library, read books to meet the knowledge and materials for the research. In parallel with specialized studies, I also try my best to improve my Chinese ability through process of studying and interacting with Chinese friends and people so that I can get at least HSK 5 as a reward, and then participating in extracurricular activities as well as school and Students’ Association activities.

Turning to my choice to study in China in general and Shanghai University in particular for my undergraduate degree, there are several reasons. China has a well-deserved reputation for excellence in terms of advanced academic programs, especially in economics, and China is one of the most important leaders in the global economy. Asia has become the center of economic activity in the world recently, with the rise of China. In the future, this trend will only intensify. Observing the economic reform and open in China, how its growth has impacted virtually not only all aspects of Chinese life, but also the global market, from small home village developed into a large vibrant town, sparked my interest. Reading the books, watching the news, analyzing and observing the people of China, I am really impressed by the way these individuals have proved themselves to be dedicated to their work and with true efforts they have set China as a successful example for other third world or developed countries. The fast growing economy, technological advancement and the global ranking education institutes of China with high reputation makes a great aspiration to the students and professionals for the better career perspectives. Thus such kind of positivity has boosted my confidence further and I am highly satisfied with the decision I have taken. Moreover, China’s diverse cultural norms and values, the famous gentle hospitality of its people and Vietnam-China all weather friendly relations since past to promote bilateral trade, which are going more strong now a days acceptance and peace to both sides in great clarity make me feel China as my second homeland; also my family fully supports my choice for China being my preference for Undergraduate studies. All these reasons put together make China an ideal place for me to do my bachelor degree. From the fact that the trade partnership between China and ASEAN countries, especially Vietnam is getting better and better everyday, I plan to use that opportunity to do my best to act as a link between my country and China on International Trade matters through the education and training I expect to receive during the program.

Now the question arises, ‘’Which University?’’ If I want to be successful in this area, then I need great education from the institute like yours. Shanghai University has earned an excellent reputation. I did a small research through the internet on this educational institution and learned that the environment is wonderful. Students from all parts of the world come here to study. It will be great to be in touch with so many cultures daily. I will certainly be able to broaden my mind by studying the Bachelor Program in International Economics and Trade offered by Shanghai University and continue to achieve my full potential in this field. What greatly impresses me is that the program offers students the exceptional interdisciplinary curriculum, the cutting-edge research along with hands-on exposure. I am particularly interested in the offered courses: Multinational Corporations, Practice of International Trade, and History of Chinese Foreign Trade. Not only will these courses equip me with advanced methods of statistics and quantitative analysis, but also provide me with deep insights into the areas of international trade, finance and management through lectures, discussions and research projects. This program is also a great opportunity for me to broaden my perspective as I will be able to work with the instruction from distinguished professors and experts in Shanghai University, who are dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and mentoring, and stand ready to put my ideals into practice.

From a future career perspective, I would treasure an opportunity to gain professional experiences in promoting international trade and investment in Vietnam upon returning from China. I believe that after rigorous training in your program, along with those experiences, I will be well-equipped to probe the unknown realm of Vietnam's economic development towards globalization and assist in opening and reforming Vietnam's trade market and promoting its international economic cooperation with other countries, especially with China. In recent years, China has been one of the largest partners of Vietnam in the field of trade and investment cooperation.

In conclusion, along with my love towards China, I would like to put forth all of my effort to not only receive the best education possible but also contribute to your dynamic and diverse academic environment. In light of my solid academic background and strong aspiration for a career in international economic affairs, I am looking forward to the Shanghai Government and the school providing partial scholarships for this undergraduate’s course for me to fulfill my dream. I will study hard, strictly abide by Chinese school rules and laws to complete the course with excellent achievements.