In 2025, USTH became a destination for many international students, including Oscar Lavest, the first freshman of the Vietnam–France double degree program. While his peers returned to France to begin university, he chose to stay in Vietnam to nurture his passion for science and pursue his dream of becoming a researcher in the field of nanotechnology.
Teenage Years in Vietnam
Oscar was born in France, but because of his parents’ work, he had the opportunity to spend his childhood in different countries. Vietnam became his second stop and also the place he has lived the longest, leaving a deep imprint on his teenage years.
“It has been more than 10 years since I left France, and Vietnam has been my second home ever since. Most of my teenage years were tied to this land, so my feelings for Vietnam are truly special,” Oscar shared.
However, at the end of high school, Oscar faced the same decision as many other international students: whether to return to France for university. He applied through Parcoursup – the national admission system for first-year students in France. But in the end, he decided to continue his journey in Vietnam.
“I wanted to join an international program outside France, so I could both improve another foreign language and experience a new culture. After five years here, I’ve grown familiar with life in Vietnam and really enjoy the rhythm of life here. Vietnamese people are friendly and warm,” Oscar explained.
A First Encounter with USTH
Before officially becoming a student, Oscar had already been exposed to USTH’s research environment. When he was in 10th grade, he took part in a short internship at the Laboratory of Energy Storage and Conversion, under the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering.
A week in the lab left him with many strong impressions: from the modern facilities meeting international standards to the dedicated guidance of lecturers and the friendliness of USTH students.
“At first, I was nervous because I wasn’t used to working in a laboratory. But thanks to the patient support of the lecturers and students, I quickly adapted. That internship helped me understand research work better and clarified my future direction, ” Oscar recalled.
Carrying on a Family Tradition
Born into a family where his father worked in science and technology, Oscar’s passion for science was nurtured early. His father’s enthusiasm and love for the field became a powerful inspiration, fueling Oscar’s dream of becoming a scientist himself.
The combination of his father’s stories and his own hands-on experience at USTH reinforced his decision to pursue Chemistry. His goal is to become a researcher in nanotechnology, a field he believes will provide solutions to many of tomorrow’s challenges.
For Oscar, USTH is more than just a university; it is a meaningful bridge between France, his homeland, and Vietnam, his second home. With its French-inspired identity and programs based on the Bologna Process followed by French and European universities, USTH offered exactly the environment he was looking for.
After comparing options in France, Oscar was particularly impressed with USTH’s learning environment, modern facilities, and innovative programs. Enrolling in the Vietnam–France Double Degree Program in Chemistry means he will spend two years studying at USTH before completing his final year in France. For Oscar, this journey is the perfect blend of two cultures, two scientific traditions, and two educational systems that he deeply values.
The path to USTH was not without challenges. Having studied under the French curriculum, Oscar needed time to adjust to Vietnam’s program and exams. “I had to study very hard every day, but thanks to my father’s help, I managed to pass the entrance exam and earn my place at USTH.”
Now, as he begins his studies, Oscar is excited for what lies ahead. He knows there will be obstacles, but he embraces them as opportunities.
“Of course, I may face failures. But they will teach me lessons and help me grow stronger,” he affirmed with confidence.
