Growing up in poor countryside in Vietnam, studying was always a struggle. My mom, a single parent, worked tirelessly to provide for me and my siblings, but there was never enough money to spare for luxuries like laptops or tutoring. But f*ck it. I had an insatiable desire for knowledge, and I had vowed to pursue higher education.
It’s never easy for poor youth in university life
Years later, I found myself in Hanoi, a city pulsing with energy and opportunity. Yet, as excited as I was to start university, I was also intimidated. Surrounded by wealthy peers who flaunted Gucci clothes and the latest iPhones, I felt like an outsider.
I didn’t want to seem ignorant, so I kept my head down and studied in isolation. But as the days went by, I realized that I was missing out on the chance to make connections and forge friendships.
I decided to break out of my shell and join clubs and organizations that aligned with my interests. I formed a student support community on Facebook called Study with GenZ of like-minded individuals who shared my passion for learning. We have even managed to build up LEAN Social, a website with free virtual space for young people to find productivity buddies and study together.
The journey wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. I realized that my struggles had only strengthened me. I overcame poverty, peer pressure, and self-doubt to achieve my dreams. I proved to myself that my background didn’t define me – I defined myself.
If you are serious about your education, here’s how to overcome your unprivileged background:
1. Embrace your struggles
Your background may not be ideal, but it doesn’t have to define you. Embrace your struggles and use them as fuel to motivate you. Remember that obstacles are opportunities in disguise. Use your experiences to your advantage and let them make you stronger.
2. Seek out support
It’s important to have a support system, especially when you’re away from home. Join clubs and organizations that align with your interests and values. Connect with like-minded individuals who can offer guidance and encouragement. Surround yourself with positivity and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
3. Don’t compare yourself to others
It’s easy to get caught up in the comparison game, but remember that everyone’s journey is different. Don’t measure your success against someone else’s. Focus on your own path and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
4. Define your own success
Success is a subjective term. It means something different to everyone. Don’t let society or others define what success should look like for you. Set your own goals and work towards them with dedication and hard work. Remember that your journey is unique and that’s something to be proud of.
No matter what major you choose, it’s important to remember that success is not determined by the degree you have, but by the effort you put in. Rich kids may have the privilege of attending the best universities and having access to the best resources, but it’s up to you to make the most of those opportunities. With hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. So, don’t let anyone tell you what to do – make your own decisions and create your own success story.
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