A native of Hanoi, Vietnam, Giang Hoang Nguyen is graduating from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics with an M.S. in finance.
Nguyen was nominated for this series by Donald J. Puglisi Professor of Finance, Chairperson Laura Field, who said, “Giang is one of our MSF students who has been admitted to several top Ph.D, programs in finance!”
In this profile, Nguyen shares her favorite UD memories, how she has changed during her time at UD and her plans following graduation.
Lerner: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Nguyen: Since my first semester at UD, I’ve grown a lot more confident in myself and my abilities. Thanks to plenty of academic and professional opportunities such as BHIC and research, I’ve discovered what I like and want to do in the future. I’ve also become more independent, better at managing my time, and more comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone. Overall, I feel more prepared for the chapter in my life thanks to my experience at UD.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Nguyen: A big challenge for me was dealing with self-doubt, especially during my graduate school application. It was easy to compare myself to others, but I learned to focus on my own growth and celebrate small wins. Talking to my professors at the finance department and my friends really helped me keep moving forward.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Nguyen: My favorite UD experience was the Blue Hen Investment Club! I was involved in the club the moment I stepped foot on campus and it has opened up so many doors for me, especially in terms of professional experience and meaningful connections. It was definitely a highlight of my college career!
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Nguyen: I couldn’t have gotten this far without the tremendous help and guidance of Professor Laura Field and the entire finance department at Lerner. Professor Field has been my biggest supporter during my graduate school application journey, constantly pushing me to step out of my comfort zone, sharing with me incredibly helpful insights, and giving much needed moral support. Her advice, encouragement, and genuine care made a huge difference in my education journey at Lerner, and I’m eternally grateful for our relationship. She is my biggest inspiration to pursue a Ph.D. in finance. I’m also thankful for other faculty members, including Professor Hamed Mahmudi, Professor Jay Coughenour, Professor Terry Campbell, Professor Jack Bao, and many other faculty and staff for sharing their advice and guiding me throughout my college career. Their unwavering support has driven me to work hard and achieve this milestone.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Nguyen: To me, being a “Lifelong Lerner” means always staying curious and open to new ideas both inside and outside of school. It’s also about growing from experiences, asking questions, and constantly trying to better yourself as well as helping other Lerner and UD fellows out!
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Nguyen: My advice would be to get involved early, whether it be joining clubs, going to events/office hours, doing research, and getting on-campus jobs. Even if it’s outside of your comfort zones, you still gain lots of insights and connections. Don’t forget to talk to your professors and ask questions. They are more than willing to help you out with your classes, research, and even job search!
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Nguyen: I’ll be joining the Ph.D. in finance program at The Ohio State University.