Le Duc Anh Vo, known to friends and colleagues as Arthur, exemplifies how a UK education can transform both personal and professional opportunities. Originally from Hanoi, Vietnam, Arthur pursued both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in management and finance at Bangor University. Today, he’s a researcher and project manager at an investment firm in Vietnam, where his UK education has been pivotal in shaping his career.
Why Choose the UK?
For Arthur, the UK’s reputation for academic excellence made it a natural choice. “The UK is one of the most profound countries to study in. It has so many great universities, many ranked among the top 1% globally. It’s also a welcoming place where you can meet wonderful people from all over the world,” he said.
His decision to study at Bangor University stemmed from a visit to his sister, who had also studied in the UK. “I visited Bangor for a week, and I could feel the atmosphere. It’s a compact city filled with university students, and the people are incredibly friendly. As a Harry Potter fan, I loved the old-world charm of the library, which became my favourite spot for late-night study sessions,” Arthur shared.
A Rich Learning Experience
Arthur’s academic journey at Bangor spanned several years, and the experience profoundly influenced him. “The knowledge I gained during my studies both undergraduate and postgraduate, was crucial in helping me approach challenges in my work. Bangor’s teaching quality is one of the best in the world, and the skills I developed there allow me to organise and perform my tasks efficiently,” he explained.
Beyond academics, Arthur credits his time at Bangor with fostering lifelong friendships. “I met some of my closest friends there, from Vietnam and beyond. Many of us returned to Vietnam, and we still meet regularly. These friendships are a great source of support, both professionally and personally,” he said.
A Competitive Edge in Vietnam
Arthur’s UK education has been a significant asset in Vietnam’s competitive job market. “Employers here place a high value on degrees from prestigious universities, especially in the UK. Having that qualification immediately sets you apart,” he noted.
After returning to Vietnam, Arthur first worked as a contractor, providing financial consultancy for Chinese firms developing waste-to-energy power plants. “The skills I gained at Bangor allowed me to complete tasks quickly and precisely, what might take others a day, I could finish in a few hours. That level of efficiency stood out to employers,” he shared.
Now, as a project manager at an investment firm, Arthur continues to apply the analytical and managerial skills he honed during his UK education. He’s also found common ground with his supervisor. “Interestingly, my boss is a UK graduate too, and that shared experience has helped us build a great professional and personal connection,” he added.
Adapting to a New Work Culture
While his UK education gave Arthur a strong foundation, transitioning back to Vietnam’s demanding work culture required some adjustment. “In Vietnam, work hours are longer, usually 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, sometimes more. There’s also a strong emphasis on speed and efficiency, which can be challenging. But my education prepared me to manage time effectively and handle pressure,” he explained.
Advice for Fellow Returnees
Arthur advises UK graduates returning to Vietnam to trust in the value of their international education. “Be yourself and stay confident. Your UK degree is a significant asset, and HR departments will recognise its value. Apply for as many jobs as possible and highlight your unique skills,” he said.
He also emphasises the importance of building strong relationships in the workplace. “I work with a small, close-knit team, and the support we give each other makes the long hours manageable. Having strong relationships at work is as important as the work itself,” he noted.
The UK Advantage
Arthur’s journey highlights the transformative impact of a UK education, world-class academics, diverse cultural experiences, and an enduring professional edge. Returning to Vietnam with these skills has helped him thrive in a competitive market and achieve career success.
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