Student Spotlight: Spreading Wings in Kyoto

For Nguyen Ngoc Bao Anh, communication has always been second nature. Growing up in Hanoi, Vietnam, she was the child who loved greeting neighbors and chatting with everyone she met. “Regardless of the language barrier or anything else, I still really enjoy chatting and learning new things,” she says. This natural confidence and open communication style have now found a new home at Kyoto University of Advanced Science (KUAS), where she is currently a first-year undergraduate student in the Faculty of Economics & Business Administration.

A Family Connection to Japan

Her journey to Japan was deeply inspired by her father, who spent years studying in the country before returning to Vietnam to establish a business. “He taught me a great deal about Japanese culture from a young age,” she recalls, explaining how she learned about everything from Japanese fashion and travel to their work ethic and study habits.

This upbringing instilled a deep appreciation for the country in her long before she arrived. She admires the discipline and adherence to rules found in Japanese society, as well as the honesty and kindness of the people. “I have a deep understanding of Japan ingrained in me,” she explains. “So, when I grow up, I will definitely go to Japan to study.”

Learning with “Heart”

When it came time to choose a university, KUAS was the top choice due to its English-language curriculum and diverse environment, which welcomes students from all over the world. For a social butterfly like Nguyen Ngoc Bao Anh, this international setting was perfect. “I’ve learned so much from people all over the world,” she says.

Academically, she has gravitated toward subjects in her faculty that allow her to explore human connection, such as Marketing, Information Literacy, and Psychology. She describes her approach to these classes beautifully: “I always love these kinds of classes because I can learn not only with my ‘brain’ but also with my ‘heart’.” She enjoys putting herself in others’ shoes to understand their emotions and perspectives.

She is also tackling the challenge of learning Japanese. “Even though Kanji is really difficult, it’s also very interesting to learn!” she admits, noting that for someone who loves to communicate, language is essential.

Cycling Through Kyoto

Since arriving in Japan, Nguyen Ngoc Bao Anh has developed a new passion: cycling. While the traffic in Hanoi made cycling difficult, she found Kyoto to be incredibly cyclist-friendly with its open roads.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, the ambitious student has a compassionate vision for her career. Her long-term goal is to open a company dedicated to helping people with disabilities find employment. “This has been my plan since high school,” she shares. Alternatively, she hopes to work for an international company that fosters strong bonds between Vietnam and Japan.

Advice to Future Students

Reflecting on the support she received from KUAS—from housing assistance to “buddy programs” that helped her make friends—she encourages prospective students to be brave.

“Don’t worry, KUAS is truly a great place to study,” she assures. Her final advice to high school students back home is simple but powerful: “Try it, don’t be afraid, step out of your comfort zone and spread your wings!”