On October 23, 2021, I left Vietnam to begin my PhD journey. This moment felt harder than any previous trip. When I went home, the COVID-19 situation was still in full swing, and there were strict transportation controls in Vietnam. My sisters and ex-girlfriend accompanied me to the airport, their expressions a mix of encouragement, sadness, and concern. In the days leading up to that moment, they helped me prepare and pack, making sure I had everything I needed. I am very grateful for their support. Even though I had traveled abroad many times before, this time was different. It felt like this trip would change everything.

I called my parents, who were unable to come to the airport due to the restrictions. It was an emotional moment. They were proud of me but sad to see me go, and their concerns were clear. I reassured them by promising to work hard and be successful—not only for myself but also for them. I thought about how great it would be to one day bring them and my loved ones to Norway when the world calmed down. But even as I said goodbye, I knew this was an important step—not just in my career, but in life.

After arriving in Norway, I spent my first days in quarantine in Oslo, and on November 1st, I officially started my PhD journey. It was a strange beginning, filled with excitement but also loneliness. The responsibilities I had to shoulder felt overwhelming at times. I was so focused on achieving success, making my loved ones proud, ensuring peace of mind for my loved ones, proving to myself that I could handle this challenge, that I almost didn’t stop to think about my own well-being.

The past three years have been full of ups and downs—times of doubt, loneliness, and homesickness. There were moments when I felt I wasn’t progressing fast enough, or when things didn’t go as planned. But through all these experiences, I learned that there is a reason for everything. With each setback came a lesson, and with each challenge came an opportunity for growth.

I’ve come to realize that success is not a destination but rather a way of navigating life: being strong and kind to oneself. I have learned to appreciate the tough times, as they have taught me patience and the importance of balance. Sometimes, we are so focused on the future that we forget to take care of ourselves in the present. That was an important lesson for me.

Now, I continue to pursue my PhD with a clearer vision of myself and what lies ahead. At this juncture in my life, after three years, I can see that all those stresses were just what I needed. They helped me strengthen my spirit, become more stable, and appreciate the people and experiences that have come into my life. Everything happens for a reason, and over time, I have learned to trust in that, even during the toughest phases.