Nguyen Nhu Quang, born in 1998 in Dai Tu district in Thai Nguyen Province, loved the green color of the soldiers’ uniform from a young age and vowed to become an officer of the Vietnam People's Army to contribute to the nation's defense.

"I wanted to alleviate my family's economic burden while pursuing my passion for science and technology," Quang explained about his choice of school.

None of his family member followed a military career, but Quang received encouragement from his relatives to join the army. "Their support was a solid foundation to overcome all difficulties," Quang said.

Quang successfully passed the entrance exam to Military Technical Academy with the high score of 27.35. His high score earned him a scholarship to study abroad. After a year of studying foreign language, Quang received a scholarship from Saint Petersburg Polytechnic University.

However, when studying in Russia, he faced language barriers. "The difficulties in communications and adaptation to a new environment and homesickness made me feel lonely and shrink back. But I persevered," Quang recalled.

His five-year challenging path in Russia concluded well. Quang graduated with a GPA of 4.9/5, becoming the only foreign student graduating with high distinction from the Institute of Computer Science and Technology.

Quang was sent to a course for a master's degree at ITMO University, specializing in Computer Engineering. The young officer again excelled, completing his master's thesis with the highest GPA of 4.95/5.

Quang was also the only master's student from his faculty winning the "ITMO Science Everest" award for best graduate thesis.

Secret to success

Quang attributes his success to hard work and the iron discipline that every Vietnamese solider must have.

"Discipline is power. It helps maintain determination and the spirit to overcome all challenges. On weekends, I usually plan activities for the next week, including tasks to complete, lab deadlines, and exam schedules. This proactive approach helps me manage work ahead of time, and always be ready for sudden tasks," Quang said.

“There were days I diligently worked in the lab from early morning until 9 or 10pm. Sometimes, I spent more time in the lab than at home. In return, I managed to pursue my passions and work with fantastic people,” he said.

Lieutenant Nguyen Nhu Quang is currently undergoing military political training at the Infantry Officer School 1 before getting his duties assigned. He hopes to be assigned according to his wishes to fully devote himself to the army.

Tu Huy