My name is Vũ Hương Thảo, I am a fourth-year student of Development Studies at Hanoi University. This May, I will have the incredible opportunity to attend the Eighth International Student Conference at the University of Westminster in London. It will be my first time to leave the country and I am beyond myself with the anticipation of the journey.
As someone passionate about social development and sustainability, I see this conference as an excellent chance to deepen my knowledge, refine my skills, and engage with fellow students and academics from around the world. My academic interests revolve around sustainable economic practices and public policy, with a particular focus on sustainable production and consumption, cultural industries, and inclusive development. Discussing these topics in an international context will allow me to gain new insights and perspectives.
For this conference, I will discuss ‘Circular Economy: Success Stories from Developed Economies and the Vietnamese Approach.’ Like many other developing countries, Vietnam is grappling with severe environmental problems, including pollution and the depletion of natural resources. In my presentation, I will explain that adopting the concept of the circular economy, which aims at reducing waste and increasing resource utilisation, could be the solution that developing countries have been looking for to achieve sustainable development. Based on the best practices of the developed countries, I will outline how Vietnam can implement similar strategies within its context.
Beyond my academic aspirations, I am also eager to immerse myself in British culture. The UK has always fascinated me, from its rich literary tradition—spanning from Shakespeare to J.K. Rowling—to its iconic historical landmarks. I look forward to visiting Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, but most of all, I am excited to interact with local people and learn about their lives, traditions, and perspectives. Understanding British history and culture will not only enrich my personal experiences but also provide valuable insights into how cultural heritage influences sustainable development.
Naturally, stepping into a new academic and cultural environment comes with challenges. Public speaking in English, in particular, is something that makes me feel nervous. However, I have been actively preparing and practising to build my confidence. This experience is not just about enhancing my academic growth but also about developing as an individual—one who embraces global citizenship and continuous learning.
The issues of climate change, public health, and inequality are the topics that I find most interesting at the conference. These are not concepts that are far away—they are real, happening now, and they affect everyone. I hope that through the discussions with my international colleagues, I will better understand how we can address these issues together as global citizens and professionals.
Even though I had only learned about DEN and the University of Westminster from previous student presentations, I look forward to finally experiencing their open and international-focused academic environment.
This conference is not just about travelling to another country—it is a chance to step out of my comfort zone, gain new perspectives, and begin to define future academic and professional pathways. I am thankful for the opportunity, and I am ready to meet everyone in London in May.