In the memories of many students far from home, Tet is often associated with crowded buses and family meals. However, there are also many students who choose to stay in the city during Tet, continuing their work and studies as part of their self-reliance journey.
Le Nguyen Thanh Thao, a 2nd year student at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City) is one of such students.
For Thanh Thao, not returning to her hometown for Tet is no longer a spontaneous decision, but gradually becoming a calculated choice, because this is already the 2nd year she has celebrated Tet away from home.
Last year, I hesitated a lot, both wanting to go home and worrying about transportation and work costs. Later, I thought differently, considering the time staying in the city as a better preparation for studying and life," Thanh Thao shared.
Over the past 2 years, Thanh Thao has almost always been in sync between studying and part-time work. The female student used to work as a tutor, server, cashier, cameraman, photographer, video editor, writing content for personal projects, makeup, hair... There were periods when Thanh Thao took on three jobs at the same time to cover living expenses and accumulate skills.
Behind that initiative are difficult family circumstances, forcing female students to get used to taking care of their own tuition and living expenses early. "I think I am lucky to still have the opportunity to go to school, so I try to work extra so as not to become a burden for my family," Thanh Thao said.
Thanh Thao's story also reflects the common choices of many students away from home. Luu Duc Hoang, a final year student majoring in Veterinary Medicine at Ho Chi Minh City University of Agriculture and Forestry, also chose to stay in the city during Tet to intern and work at a veterinary clinic.
For Duc Hoang, staying helps him accumulate professional experience and be more proactive about tuition fees.
Meanwhile, Phan Thanh Khai, a student of the same Veterinary major, is the 2nd year to choose not to return to his hometown for Tet. Thanh Khai said that this time helps him complete his internship, have more income and not interrupt his study plan when entering the new semester.
Staying in the city during Tet means accepting the absence of boarding houses and dormitories with simple meals and long shifts.
However, for many students, it is also a necessary time to cultivate self-reliance, accumulate experience and prepare for the journey ahead.
