1.

SoP # 1 - Masters in Strategic Project Management

MOTIVATION LETTER

Nguyen Hoai Xinh

No 72, Ba Trieu
xxxxxx

30 December 2008
Postgraduate Admissions
Recruitment & Admissions Service
ABC University
Edinburgh, EH14 4AS

Dear Sir or Madam

My name is Nguyen Hoai Xinh, an audit assistant in Ernst & Young

Vietnam Limited. I am writing this letter to demonstrate my strong
interest in Masters in Strategic Project Management under Eramus
Mundus scholarship program.

I was born in a poor family in the Middle part of Vietnam.

Therefore, when being a child I was dreaming of becoming a
successful person so that I can have the opportunities to make
much money and be respected by other people in the society. As I
grew up, I have also learnt that my country, Vietnam, is still a
developing one and my fellows are living in low standard in
comparison with the average level of the world. Vietnam’s economy
is still at a very first stage of development and there is huge room
for improvement. Consequently, I am more and more committed to
my desire to gain profound and deep understanding of economics
with an aim to make contribution to the prosperity of my country.
Therefore, I desire to follow your course of Masters in Strategic
Project Management so that when I return to Vietnam, I can devote
my ability and knowledge to the improvement of this situation.

Keeping this dream inside my heart, during my undergraduate

studies I was always working hard and scientifically to get profound
academic background and I did gain outstanding achievements. My
high school is the most famous one in my hometown for gifted
pupils of different subjects. For each subject, it selects only one
class of 30 pupils from many high schools in the whole province.
Knowing that English would be a useful means of communication
for me to do business in the future, I decided to take the English
specializing class. The studying atmosphere is very competitive,
however, at the end of grade 12, I was voted to be “The best pupil
of the class” by my classmates. Furthermore, I was chosen to be one
of the eight pupils of my province to have the right to sit the
national examination for excellent pupils at English and I got the
Third Prize. Moreover, I came first in the high school graduation
examination (my score was the highest one: 59.5/60) in Nghe An
province. Being a student of Foreign Trade University, one of the
best universities in Vietnam for its teaching and studying quality, I
continued my efforts in studying and obtained the second highest
GPA in my class of 140 students. I was honored with the most
prestigious scholarship named Sumitomo at my University which
was granted to only fifteen best students out of nearly eight
hundred ones for each training course. Although my major is
External Economics but you can find in my academic transcript that
I have got a solid background in general economics fields from
Business Administration, Accounting to Foreign Investment.
Beyond my excellent academic records, I also took part in many
extra-curricular activities to build up good and qualified personality
as a preparation for my future. Being the monitor of my class, I
organized and created various outdoor activities for my classmates,
this helped me to earn a lot of skills in motivating and encouraging
other people. Moreover, I also participated actively in many
voluntary and social campaigns hold by the Youth Union of Foreign
Trade University. All these activities turned me into an active,
flexible, determined, and enthusiastic person. I was highly
appreciated by the Youth Union of Foreign Trade University for my
positive and good performance.

At present, I am working for Assurance and Advisory Business

Services under Ernst & Young Vietnam Company Limited. This job
offers me chances of obtaining practical knowledge of Vietnam
economy by auditing the Financial Statements of several projects,
corporate and banks. After nearly two years of working as an audit
assistant, I have also learnt that one of the most important
underlying reasons for the weakness of Vietnam financial market is
a shortage of information transparency. In the financial market of
Vietnam, lenders or investors can not assess to reliable information
sources and their lending or investment decisions are very risky.
Moreover, because of insufficiency of accurate information, market
forecast and analysis can not be done appropriately. As a result,
financial market can not operate actively and effectively. Base on
the above thought, I think that assurance services are of great
importance to impulse the development of Vietnam financial
market. Therefore, I plan to build up a company specializing in
providing assurance business in two years time to meet the demand
of the market and the target clients of my companies would be local
and foreign invested projects. To implement the plan, I intend to
equip myself with both professional financial knowledge and
managerial skills. Regarding knowledge, I am pursuing the goal of
being a professional accountant of ACCA (Association of Chartered
Certified Accountants) in the next two years to get professional and
wide understanding of finance and accounting aspect. On the aspect
of managerial skills, I hope that I can complete my master degree in
strategic project management in your country. I believe the
qualification will help me realize my ambition and be able to reach
highest potential in my career for its high quality, round structure,
and systematic content. Moreover, during the time in your country,
my view regarding economy operation and the way people in your
country live and work would help to draw valuable lessons for
Vietnam. Upon the completion of the course, I have the intention of
coming back to Ernst & Young Vietnam and continued to work here
for about one more year to update my knowledge of current
economy with an aim to prepare for the establishment of my own
company.

To realize my plan, I do hope that I can get your financial aids to

pursue my further study as a Master of strategic project
management. High quality education system in Europe is what
Vietnamese students need in order to make greater contribution to
the wealth of my country. However, very few Vietnamese students
can come to Europe to continue their studies because of financial
difficulty. Scholarships delivered through governmental
organizations or embassies are usually in favor of people from state
companies or academic institutes and training units. Therefore,
there are very few opportunities for people from private sector like
me; consequently, many people have to give up their dream of
studying abroad. However, not wanting to give up, I decide to find a
new way for myself and for young people of my generation by
asking for your aids directly. I do hope that I will succeed in getting
the scholarship. Moreover, with my success, I want to persuade
other Vietnamese students that if we have ability, spiritual strength,
ambition, and determination, we can overcome our difficulties and
create opportunities for ourselves.

In view of my academic strength and career desire, I trust that you

will consider my application favorably. If you need further
information, please do not hesitate to contact me or my referees
whose details are listed as follows.

First referee:
Dr. YYY
Lecturer in International Business
Faculty of UUUU
SHM University
NNNNN
Telephone: 004412345
Email: xinhxinh@[Link]

Second referee:
Dr. MMM
Vice Dean of Banking and Finance Faculty
XXX University
91 MNM St., TIM District
Hanoi, Vietnam
Phone: (84) 04123 (extension 534)
Email: bbbb1999@[Link]

Thank you very much for considering my request. I look forward to

your positive response.
Sincerely

Nguyen Hoai Xinh

Enclosed:
- Curriculum Vitae
- University degree
- Transcript of records
- IETLS certificates
- High school record
- One reference letter
- A copy of passport
- Other certificates
-------------------------------------------------------------------

2. SoP # 2 - Scholarships for Annual Courses on Portuguese

Language and Culture

Hanói, dia 15 de Janeiro de 2011

Exmos. Senhores,
Chamo-me Nguyen Thi Hai, sou estudante do 40 ano de Língua
Portuguesa na Universidade de Hanói, no Vietname.
Tenho muito interesse em estudar línguas e culturas estrangeiras.
O interesse surgiu com as disciplinas de história e geografia global,
aquando da minha passagem pelo ensino secundário. Sempre
desejei descobrir o mundo e saber mais sobre a cultura de outros
povos. E então, apercebi-me que para conhecer melhor um povo, é
preciso primeiro estudar a sua língua. É a minha maior paixão na
vida. Por esta paixão, estudo Inglês, Tailandês e Português. E decidi
avançar com a língua portuguesa, querendo agora estudá-la mais
profundamente.
Através do que aprendi nas aulas na universidade e pela internet,
gosto do Portugal histórico com os seus castelos medievais, do
Portugal épico com os seus grandes navegadores reconhecidos
mundialmente, como os primeiros na história da Humanidade, que
descobriram todo o globo, e, do Portugal tradicional com os seus
azulejos artísticos. Portugal também me atraiu pelo paladar através
dos Pastéis de Belém e do Vinho de Porto.
Tive sempre a curiosidade em descobrir como o país “onde a terra
acaba e o mar começa” é, como é o vinho dos mortos e como as
pessoas do mar são, em Portugal, e, como são os portugueses
originais. Também queria responder à pergunta, porque é que os
portugueses não gostam de um quadro completo, mas de peças de
azulejos.
Nos últimos tempos, tenho estudado Literatura Portuguesa,
realmente admiro Luís Vaz de Camões – um grande poeta de
Portugal e do Ocidente – e, José Saramago – o escritor galardoado
com o Nobel da Literatura em 1998. Tenho vontade de ler mais as
suas obras e de aprender mais sobre o seu estilo.
Além disso, frequentei o Curso de Verão de Língua e Cultura
Portuguesas em Macau, no ano passado. Senti-me muito feliz
durante o curso, porque com a língua portuguesa, eu pude saber
não só sobre Portugal, mas também sobre o Brasil – país da América
Latina-, Moçambique, Angola, Cabo Verde, Guiné- Bissau e São
Tomé e Príncipe – países de África, Timor-Leste – país da Ásia,
Macau – região administrativa de regime especial da China –, e Goa,
um estado da Índia. Como Vergílio Ferreira disse “da minha língua
vê-se o mar”, eu vi quase todos os 4 oceanos. Queria ver mais, e
mais realmente.
Quando era adolescente, tinha o sonho de ser uma escritora e
tradutora famosa. Tentei traduzir alguns poemas do vietnamita para
o português. Mesmo que ainda não sejam publicados, os meus
professores apreciaram as minhas traduções. Queria trabalhar no
ramo da tradução. Tenho planos para o futuro: quero traduzir obras
literárias do vietnamita para o português e vice-versa. Com este
trabalho, posso divulgar a cultura dos dois países, especialmente
porque a língua portuguesa ainda não é popular no Vietname, bem
como a língua vietnamita não o é em Portugal. Acredito que
queremos eliminar a barreira cultural, para isso temos de eliminar a
barreira da língua antes. Com a minha grande paixão e capacidade,
fá-lo-ei muito em breve certamente.
Pelas razões em realizar a minha vontade de estudar, descobrir e
divulgar a língua e cultura portuguesas, queria fazer parte do Curso
Anual de Língua e Cultura Portuguesas. Este curso ajudar-me-á a
ter oportunidade de trabalhar de forma mais profissional, mais
académica e num ambiente verdadeiramente português. Tenho a
certeza que a frequência no curso me dará mais competências ao
nível da língua e cultura portuguesas e experiências úteis para o
meu trabalho no futuro e, ao mesmo tempo, poderei partilhar com
outras pessoas todos os conhecimentos que daí obterei.

Atenciosamente,

Nguyen Thi Hai

--------------------------------------------------------------

3. SoP # 3: Erasmus Mundus Master programme in

Aeromechanics (THRUST)
LETTER OF MOTIVATION

16th November 2010

Dear Madam/Sir,

I am PHAM KIM HOAN, graduate student with bachelor’s degree in

Aerospace Engineering from Nanyang Technological University in
Singapore. I would like to apply for the Erasmus Mundus Master
programme in Aeromechanics (THRUST) with mobility path 3
(Unsteady Aerodynamics) in Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden.

When I was a child, the stories of Thomas Edison as a great

inventor and entrepreneur greatly influenced my dream of
becoming an engineer to “create the world”. Four years ago, I was
admitted in Nanyang Technological University to pursue aerospace
engineering degree; it was definitely a great opportunity to fulfil my
childhood passion. During the course, I was given lots of chance to
participate in various research projects under my professors’
supervision such as designing a novel aircraft with movable wings.
When I was attached to Eurocopter, an EADS company and
immersed in various helicopter’s design projects, I found out that
aerospace engineering is really fascinating and I was completely
addicted in it.
After undergraduate study, I recognized that my ambitions in
aviation would not be realized without a solid academic background
and strong real world experience. I am deeply convinced that the
Erasmus Mundus program in Aeromechanics is one of the best ways
to achieve my future goals because of its high international quality
and closely relevance to my academic expectations. I apprehend
that I will be educated with excellent skills to be able to face the
challenges in aeromechanics field, for example developing a more
efficient, lighter, cheaper and greener turbofan jet engine for
aircraft. Furthermore, the program’s mobility option also provides
me a great chance to broaden my cultural experience and
knowledge, which is extremely vital in this globalising era. A
completion of this Master’s degree is without doubt an
extraordinary ticket for my future plan.

I would appreciate your valuable time and consideration to my

application.

Yours sincerely,

PHAM KIM HOAN,

20C Lorong Marzuki
Vicenta Lodge
Singapore 417066
Mobile (preferred): (+65) 8226 9867
Office: (+65) 6214 1082 Ext. 208
pham0030@[Link]
pham0030@[Link]

---------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Sop # 4- Masters in Strategic Project Management

Personal Statement (Motivation Letter)

― Apply for Masters in Strategic Project Management
My career goal is to be a successful entrepreneur or a senior
project manager in an internationally orientated enterprise. In the
past few years, I have planned four steps for my career life:
university education – professional working – further study –
working & lifelong learning. I believe the third step - further study
will consolidate the knowledge and skills I already had and make up
the things I’m short of. I think the program of Masters in Strategic
Project Management perfectly matches my career goal, my
employment experience and my education background.

I spent my college life at Shanghai Jiao Tong University – one of the

best Universities in China where I was striving to be an all-round
man. Since I entered SJTU with a perfect College Entrance Exam
score, I kept on working hard. Besides those theoretical textbook
studies, I team worked in several engineering design projects and
got “Best” remarks. From then on, I was fascinated in doing
projects. In order to broaden my vision and knowledge, I studied
two subjects in Mechanical Engineering & Automation and
International Finance. At the end of my undergraduate life, I
successfully obtained two bachelor’s degrees (where only 10%
students in SJTU made it). Four years studying of Mechanical
Engineering and International Finance equipped me with a wide
range of multidisciplinary knowledge. A great deal of
extracurricular activities further improved my social skills.

The following work experiences broadened my vision and

knowledge much further. The first job I did was a four-month intern
in Shanghai Lianwei Electronics (PTY) LTD. Shanghai Lianwei is an
Import & Export trading company mostly serves the overseas sub-
companies and branches of SVA Group. I worked as a purchasing
agent assisting senior managers dealing with purchasing related
matters. From this job I got more familiar with the purchasing
procedures and made important preparations for my future work.

After that, I came to South Africa and worked in UNIVA (PTY) LTD,
which left a wonderful page in my life. Univa is the second largest
stove manufacturer in SA with a long history began from 1958. It
was bought by SVA at the end of 2001 after liquidation. Just one
year later Univa made up the deficits and got surpluses. Because
they used fewer people to do more work and imported lower cost
parts to replace expensive ones. But the technical and management
force of the company was very weak. That’s why I came up.

The first job I did was updating the technical drawings and BOM
lists of all the stove models. I believed that those documents were
the most important technical foundation of an industrial enterprise.
Although it took me days and nights, my work did contribute a lot to
the stable, healthy, orderly and smooth running of the whole
factory. Then I made a series of service manual with vivid explosion
views of each product of the SVA Group using 3D software. This
manual helped a lot and solved many problems in the after-sales
service area.

Since I got familiar with the technical side of the factory, I was put
in charge of a big international project to develop a completely new
series of under-counter stove. This project involved many
companies both in South Africa and China. Univa, SA suppliers,
Shanghai Lianwei, Chinese die manufacturers and parts suppliers
were all participated in it. The process of dealing with them greatly
improved my organizational and communication skills, as well as
the international cooperation ability. From the stage of research to
design, to drafting, to tool making, to mass production, I dedicated
myself to every process of the project and acquired plenty of
product development experience. Once I thought there are some
South African families sitting enjoy well cooked meal from the
stoves I designed, I’m very happy. What makes me much happier is
that from the project I developed the character of attention to detail
and considering situations from strategic perspective. I believe this
character I possessed of will be invaluable in any field of research
or employment. Besides these new product development projects, I
did many other old products upgrading and improving projects, as
well as some production equipments & techniques improving
projects.

In addition to those R&D jobs, I did many other works like technical
testing, quality control, document management, suppliers
communication, production supervision, staff training, exhibition
organizing and so on. I also undertook some other miscellaneous
assignments, such as dealing with municipal departments, banks,
polices, security companies etc. Guiding and escorting visiting
delegations from China also happened to me sometimes. A lot of
responsibilities were put on me because the company always tried
to minimize the cost of production and management, one person
should do the jobs did by several people before. Most of those
things were trivial and non professional related, but they helped a
lot in the development of my social skills and competences. A
competent project manager should have the right personality,
necessary managerial skills and a wide range of knowledge. All
those jobs and works brought me a few steps closer to my goal of
being a successful project manager.

The time I spent in Univa was not just blindly working, it inspired
me lot thinking about management. The first advantage of Univa’s
management is the flat organization and small-size staff. This
structure greatly improved the effectiveness & efficiency of the
company and sharply cut down management cost. But this method
of management usually caused problems of unclear duties and
indistinct responsibilities amid departments and managers. When
something bad happened they began to blame each other. How to
solve it? Only if everyone in the company is capable of thinking and
working on his own and has great initiative would make it. But how
much the company should pay to such excellent staff? It’s a
contradiction requiring skill of balance. Similar contradictions occur
in other management areas as well. When doing a project, project
managers should keep a good balance of quality, cost and time.
When choosing a part or component, the part’s cost and quality are
two contradictory elements need to be well balanced. Best quality is
not always the best solution, suitable to the real level of products is
more desirable. This principle applies to Quality Control and
Purchasing departments as well. Wise bosses know how to balance
the product quality and the quality cost. For the people in the
purchasing department, they should also keep balance of
production, stock and cash flow.

As can be seen, I think the spirit of management is Balance. Balance

to harmony. Management is somewhat like two legs walking on the
ground, you must keep balance to be stable, but you have to break
balance to move forward. A good manager should grasp the right
balance among various elements and make decisions based on a
strategic consideration. But how to balance? That’s one of the skills
I want to achieve in the studying of MSPME.

From a basic draftsman to a department manager, I climbed rapidly

in my career ladder. At the same time, I touched the first career
ceiling quickly. But it’s still a long way to achieve my career goal.
So I need change, I want something bigger. It's the time to make
the change. It's the time to recharge myself. Once I found the
program of MSPME on the Erasmus website, I fell in love with it.
The MSPME program gives the unique opportunity to get
acquainted with the social, cultural and economical life of different
European countries, while learning leading edge approaches and
methodologies about strategic project management, developed by
three leading Universities in Europe. I believe the program will
provide students with a systematic understanding of strategic
project management and a critical awareness of the contemporary,
pervasive issues concerning this subject. They are essential in
achieving my career goal. And studying in the European Countries
is about much more than gaining academic qualifications. Europe is
the birthplace of western civilization and industrial revolutions that
have directly influenced everything we see in our lives. She likes a
colorful panorama of nations, people, languages and cultures,
joined in peaceful unity. In there I can learn new languages, enjoy a
rich diversity of cultures, hone my social skills and make new
friends from around the world. I love to study in Europe.

21 years Asian experience plus 4 years African experience of me

will definitely be adding to the diversity of the program. Being
acquainted with the biggest developing countries both in Asia and
Africa will surely be useful contribution in the communications
among classmates. More than four years of practical working
experience made me easier to understand and put theory into
practice. And I’m eager to share knowledge, experience, vision and
ideology with the peers from all over the world. It’s interesting and
exciting. I’m looking forward to starting my new life in the program.
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------

5. SoP # 5 - Master program in Molecular Medicine - HSP

LETTER OF MOTIVATION
My passion of biological research was originated from the education
at the Talented Program, a prestigious program of Vietnamese
Government to train leading scientists for the nation in the future.
Needless to say, all my fellow students were outstanding ones and
the study environment was very academic and challenging. I
reminded myself that I came here to fulfill my dream so I tried very
hard to be at the top of our class. Throughout the years, this great
determination has helped me to raise my academic performance,
obtain a strong foundation in chemistry and biology, and nurture a
growing passion for research. Moreover, I eagerly participated in
doing research and realized that innovative technologies in the field
of life science had a great impact on applied biology and medicine.
This shaped in me a strong desire to pursue the Master program in
Molecular Medicine at the Erasmus University Rotterdam, The
Netherlands.
My passion of scientific research and my great endeavors to
prepare for both my research and English skills are tied together
and drive me to work in Immunology Laboratory, National Institute
of Hygiene and Epidemiology. I was fortunate to work under the
guidance of Professor Vu Tan Trao, who has had a long-lasting
collaboration with global partners, especially the Dutch partners.
She introduced me to her area of expertise through the experience
of practical projects including “TB rapid test”, “Identification of
mechanisms correlating with susceptibility for Avian Influenza” and
“Population-based exposure to H5N1 by detecting antibodies to H5
in three provinces of Vietnam”. We are dealing with the diseases
caused by the tuberculosis (TB) and influenza virus which are still
serious among high risk groups and remain a significant public
health problem in Vietnam. I, therefore, not only had great chances
to work with several international experts from Thailand, The
Netherlands, The US but also was inspired by Prof. Trao’s affinity
for science and thrill of discovery. Being in a good research
environment increased my desire to study abroad, and strengthened
my wish for my country to improve research conditions in the
future. It is my biggest aspiration to reach the best research
environments, like those in The Netherlands.
Most importantly, Vietnam is especially concerned with the field of
microbial pathogenesis because it has tropical climate and ranks as
one of the top in the world in terms of microorganism diversity. The
widespread tropical diseases caused by microorganisms are one of
the most challenging issues that Vietnam now faces. Yet, my
country currently lacks specialists who have been methodically
trained to find the pathological mechanisms and discover
therapeutic strategies to fight these diseases. Thus, I plan to
specialize in the field of molecular medicine to become an expert
capable of dealing with the threat of tropical diseases in my
country. I strongly believe that the knowledge gained from your
excellent learning environment will give me a systematic
background to become knowledgeable teacher. In my opinion, being
a researcher and a teacher would enable me to maximize my
contribution to the development of my country in terms of science
and education. Through teaching, I want to impart my knowledge to
help students understand better about the field of molecular
medicine and medical biology. In the long run, I would also like to
establish strong relationships with Dutch experts in my field for
further cooperation after I return to Vietnam.
After several months of meticulous research into Dutch universities,
I realized that the Molecular Medicine Master course of the
Erasmus Medical Center is a perfect match for me. The broad
networking environment and the availability of superior research
facilities not only bring up chances to exchange ideas with
outstanding students and specialists but also enable students to
maximize their competence. This would encourage valuable
discussions with different experts, thus broadening and enriching
my research as well as helping me build a wide spectrum of the
specialized knowledge. Moreover, studying in this course would be
an excellent opportunity for me to conduct research under the lead
of distinguished professors. I am really interested in the research of
Professor Georges Verjans about the interactions that occur
between animal viruses and their host cells. I hope to join his lab
and to contribute my part to his research.
I am fully aware that successful pursuit of an international Master
program demands a high level of intelligence, determination, and
personal sacrifice. I will try my best to meet these demands and I
believe that an education from the Molecular Medicine Master
program of Erasmus MC would help me fulfill my goals. Thank you
for your consideration.
Applicant
Ho Xuan Hung
Niềm đam mê nghiên cứu sinh học của tôi bắt nguồn từ giáo dục tại
Chương trình Tài năng, một chương trình uy tín của Chính phủ Việt
Nam nhằm đào tạo các nhà khoa học hàng đầu cho quốc gia trong
tương lai. Không cần phải nói, tất cả các sinh viên của tôi là những
người xuất sắc và môi trường học tập rất hàn lâm và đầy thách thức.
Tôi tự nhắc nhở mình rằng tôi đến đây để thực hiện ước mơ của
mình vì vậy tôi đã rất cố gắng để đứng đầu lớp chúng tôi. Trong
suốt nhiều năm, quyết tâm cao độ này đã giúp tôi nâng cao thành
tích học tập, có được nền tảng vững chắc về hóa học và sinh học, và
nuôi dưỡng niềm đam mê nghiên cứu ngày càng tăng. Hơn nữa, tôi
háo hức tham gia nghiên cứu và nhận ra rằng các công nghệ tiên
tiến trong lĩnh vực khoa học đời sống có tác động lớn đến sinh học
ứng dụng và y học. Điều này hình thành trong tôi một khát khao
mãnh liệt để theo đuổi chương trình Thạc sĩ về Y học phân tử tại Đại
học Erasmus Rotterdam, Hà Lan.
Niềm đam mê nghiên cứu khoa học và nỗ lực tuyệt vời của tôi để
chuẩn bị cho cả kỹ năng nghiên cứu và tiếng Anh của tôi gắn liền
với nhau và đưa tôi đến làm việc tại Phòng thí nghiệm Miễn dịch
học, Viện Vệ sinh và Dịch tễ học Quốc gia. Tôi may mắn được làm
việc dưới sự hướng dẫn của Giáo sư Vũ Tấn Trao, người đã có sự
cộng tác lâu dài với các đối tác toàn cầu, đặc biệt là các đối tác Hà
Lan. Cô ấy giới thiệu cho tôi về lĩnh vực chuyên môn của mình thông
qua kinh nghiệm của các dự án thực tế bao gồm thử nghiệm nhanh
TB TB, Xác định các cơ chế tương quan với tính nhạy cảm với cúm
gia cầm và H5N1 dựa trên dân số bằng cách phát hiện kháng thể
đối với H5 ở ba tỉnh của Việt Nam Mùi. Chúng tôi đang đối phó với
các bệnh gây ra bởi bệnh lao (TB) và vi-rút cúm vẫn còn nghiêm
trọng trong các nhóm nguy cơ cao và vẫn là một vấn đề sức khỏe
cộng đồng đáng kể ở Việt Nam. Do đó, tôi không chỉ có cơ hội tuyệt
vời để làm việc với một số chuyên gia quốc tế đến từ Thái Lan, Hà
Lan, Hoa Kỳ mà còn được truyền cảm hứng từ sự say mê của Giáo sư
Trao đối với khoa học và sự khám phá. Ở trong một môi trường
nghiên cứu tốt làm tăng mong muốn đi du học của tôi, và củng cố
mong muốn của tôi cho đất nước của tôi để cải thiện điều kiện
nghiên cứu trong tương lai. Đó là khát vọng lớn nhất của tôi để đạt
được môi trường nghiên cứu tốt nhất, giống như ở Hà Lan.
Quan trọng nhất, Việt Nam đặc biệt quan tâm đến lĩnh vực sinh
bệnh học vi khuẩn vì nước này có khí hậu nhiệt đới và được xếp
hạng là một trong những nước hàng đầu trên thế giới về sự đa dạng
của vi sinh vật. Các bệnh nhiệt đới lan rộng do vi sinh vật gây ra là
một trong những vấn đề thách thức nhất mà Việt Nam hiện nay phải
đối mặt. Tuy nhiên, đất nước tôi hiện đang thiếu các chuyên gia đã
được đào tạo một cách có phương pháp để tìm ra các cơ chế bệnh lý
và khám phá các chiến lược trị liệu để chống lại các bệnh này. Vì
vậy, tôi dự định chuyên về lĩnh vực y học phân tử để trở thành một
chuyên gia có khả năng đối phó với mối đe dọa của các bệnh nhiệt
đới ở nước tôi. Tôi tin tưởng mạnh mẽ rằng kiến thức thu được từ
môi trường học tập tuyệt vời của bạn sẽ cho tôi một nền tảng hệ
thống để trở thành giáo viên có kiến thức. Theo tôi, trở thành một
nhà nghiên cứu và một giáo viên sẽ cho phép tôi phát huy tối đa sự
đóng góp của mình cho sự phát triển của đất nước tôi về mặt khoa
học và giáo dục. Thông qua giảng dạy, tôi muốn truyền đạt kiến
thức của mình để giúp sinh viên hiểu rõ hơn về lĩnh vực y học phân
tử và sinh học y tế. Về lâu dài, tôi cũng muốn thiết lập mối quan hệ
mạnh mẽ với các chuyên gia Hà Lan trong lĩnh vực của mình để hợp
tác hơn nữa sau khi tôi trở về Việt Nam.
Sau vài tháng nghiên cứu tỉ mỉ vào các trường đại học Hà Lan, tôi
nhận ra rằng khóa học Thạc sĩ y học phân tử của Trung tâm y tế
Erasmus là một kết hợp hoàn hảo với tôi. Môi trường mạng rộng và
sự sẵn có của các cơ sở nghiên cứu ưu việt không chỉ mang đến cơ
hội trao đổi ý tưởng với các sinh viên và chuyên gia xuất sắc mà còn
cho phép sinh viên phát huy tối đa năng lực của mình. Điều này sẽ
khuyến khích các cuộc thảo luận có giá trị với các chuyên gia khác
nhau, do đó mở rộng và làm phong phú nghiên cứu của tôi cũng như
giúp tôi xây dựng một phổ rộng các kiến thức chuyên ngành. Hơn
nữa, học trong khóa học này sẽ là một cơ hội tuyệt vời để tôi tiến
hành nghiên cứu dưới sự dẫn dắt của các giáo sư nổi tiếng. Tôi thực
sự quan tâm đến nghiên cứu của Giáo sư Georges Verjans về các
tương tác xảy ra giữa virus động vật và tế bào chủ của chúng. Tôi hy
vọng tham gia phòng thí nghiệm của anh ấy và đóng góp phần của
tôi cho nghiên cứu của anh ấy.
Tôi hoàn toàn nhận thức được rằng việc theo đuổi thành công
chương trình Thạc sĩ quốc tế đòi hỏi trí thông minh, quyết tâm cao
và sự hy sinh cá nhân. Tôi sẽ cố gắng hết sức để đáp ứng những yêu
cầu này và tôi tin rằng một nền giáo dục từ chương trình Thạc sĩ Y
học Phân tử của Erasmus MC sẽ giúp tôi hoàn thành mục tiêu của
mình. Cám ơn bạn đã xem xét.
Người nộp đơn
--------------------------------------------------------------

6. SoP #6: Master program in Biochemistry at the Swiss

Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich, Switzerland - Swiss
GOv Scholarship

Hanoi, October 15, 2010

PERSONAL STATEMENT
To Whom It May Concern:
I would like to express my motivation to apply for Swiss
Government Scholarship in 2011. This would be a great opportunity
for me because winning this scholarship gives me a chance to
pursue Master program in Biochemistry at the Swiss Federal
Institute of Technology, Zurich, Switzerland.
After finishing high school, I achieved the highest grade in the
University Entrance Examination, and was ranked number one out
of more than 2000 candidates. Thus, I was admitted to the Talented
Program, the most prestigious and competitive program in the
College of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. Being a
provincial student and having to encounter many difficulties, I tried
my best to catch up with the high speed of studying in this program.
Throughout the years, this great determination has helped me to
raise my academic performance, obtain a strong foundation in
chemistry and biology, and nurture a growing passion for research.
During my undergraduate studies, I eagerly participated in doing
research and realized that innovative technologies in the field of life
science had a great impact in applied biology and medicine. This
shaped in me a strong desire to pursue the Master degree in
Biochemistry at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH
Zurich) with an emphasis on the application to biotechnology and
medical biology.
Besides performing well in academics, I have accumulated many
research experiences by doing research in Recombinant Protein
Unit, Key Laboratory of Enzymes and Protein Technology, Vietnam
National University, Hanoi. As a student in the Talented program of
biology, I was selected to participate three out of many projects
under the supervision of Professor Phan Tuan Nghia, who is
currently the Director of the Key Laboratory of Enzymes and
Protein Technology. This was a great opportunity for me because I
had a chance to approach to several modern biochemistry and
molecular biology techniques such as recombination DNA, DNA
sequencing, gene expression etc. I was so proud that in the
Scientific Conference for students of my university, a third-year
student and I won the Third prize for our endeavor in research.
Defending my senior thesis with grade 10/10, I graduated within the
top 5% of the Faculty of Biology. My passion of scientific research
and my great endeavors of preparing both my research and English
skills are tied together and drive me to work in Immunology
Laboratory, National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology. I was
fortunate to work under the guidance of Professor Vu Tan Trao, who
has had a long-lasting collaboration with global partners, especially
the Dutch partners. She introduced me to her area of expertise
through the experience of practical projects including
“Identification of mechanisms correlating with susceptibility for
Avian Influenza (IMECS)” and “Seroprevalence of Avian Influenza in
Vietnam, 2010 - 2011” which were funded by European Commission
(2009-2011) and HJF Medical Research International, The US,
respectively. In fact, taking part in these projects has helped me get
not only the organizational and problem solving skills but also many
effective ways of team-work in both theoretical and experimental
issues. Working in a good research environment increased my
desire to study abroad, and strengthened my wish for my country to
improve research conditions in the future. It is my biggest
aspiration to reach the best research environments, like those in
Switzerland.
After several months of meticulous research into Swiss universities,
I realized that the Biochemistry Master course in the ETH Zurich is
a perfect match for me. The broad networking environment and the
availability of superior research facilities not only bring up chances
to exchange ideas with outstanding students and specialists but also
enable students to maximize their competence. Moreover, studying
in this Master Course would be an excellent opportunity for me to
conduct research under the lead of distinguished professors. I am
really interested in the research of Professor Ari Helenius about
cellular and molecular biology of interactions that occur between
animal viruses and their host cells during the infectious cycle. I
hope to join his lab and have a chance to contribute my part to his
research. Unfortunately, the current financial situation does not
allow me to cover tuition fees and living expenses for graduate
studies in ETH Zurich. This scholarship is a salvation since it could
help me open the door to my dream of study in Switzerland.
In the future, I hope that I will have a deeper understanding of
medical biology and biochemistry. I am interested in both the
practical and theoretical study of biochemical reactions,
biochemistry of metabolic disorders, infectious microorganisms for
which I believe that I will try very hard to have the motivation,
commitment, and ability to succeed. Moreover, I intend to pursue
this Biochemistry Master program because research in this field
requires favorable conditions such as financial resources, sufficient
equipment, and the experienced specialists which are not available
in Vietnam. My long-term goal is to be able to apply what I have
learned to real life. As the effects of global warming, the food
supply and production in my country is going to suffer a lot due to
frequent and large scale of floods, drought as well as water
shortage. Consequently, livestock will become increasingly stressed
and restricted. So I am confident that the knowledge and
experience I gain in this Master program will help me to contribute
to, and encourage research in the field of biochemistry and
biomedicine in Vietnam. In the long run, I would also like to
establish strong relationships with Swiss experts in my field for
further cooperation in both research and teaching after I return to
Vietnam.
I am fully aware that to successfully undertake a Master program
demands a high level of intelligence, determination, and personal
sacrifice. I will try my best to meet these demands. Therefore, I
sincerely hope that you will make a favorable decision for me
regarding to the Swiss Government Scholarship. I look forward to
hearing about your decision. Thank you for your time and
consideration.
Candidate
Ho Xuan Hung
------------------------------------------------------------

7. SoP # 7 - European Master in Animal Breeding and

Genetics (EM-ABG)
Hanoi, November 20th 2010

LETTER OF MOTIVATION

As a farm student from rural area of Vietnam, I faced many

challenges when I moved to Hanoi to study. I endeavored to
adapt to life in the capital which is completely different
from life in my hometown. Besides trying to stay at the top of
my class, I worked part-time as a private tutor for high school
students to cover my living expenses due to my family’s
financial hardships. I was highly motivated to overcome both
challenges in my studies and my life. My difficulties instilled in me a
strong sense of motivation, determination and perseverance to
strive for a successful future. My long-
term goal is to dedicate myself to the research and teaching field of
animal and biological science. In order to achieve this goal, I intend
to pursue my graduate study at the European Master in Animal
Breeding and Genetics (EM-ABG) starting in the fall of 2011. I,
therefore, would like to explain my motivation in a few
words for your consideration on granting me this
Erasmus Mundus scholarship. I believe I am qualified for
your scholarship because of my strong background in
science, the challenges and experiences I have overcome and my
careful preparation for future study.

After finishing high school, I achieved the highest grade in the

University Entrance Examination, and was ranked number one
out of more than 2000 candidates. Thus, I was admitted
to the Talented Program, a unique program of Vietnamese
Government to train leading scientists for the nation in the future.
Needless to say, all my fellow students were outstanding ones and
the study environment was very academic. I reminded myself that I
came here to fulfill my dream so I tried very hard to be at the
top of our class. Throughout the years, this great determination has
helped me to raise my academic performance, obtain a strong
foundation in chemistry and biology, and nurture a growing passion
for research. In fact, I received many honors and awards for gaining
excellent academic achievements from both my university and
private organizations.

Besides performing well in academics, I have

accumulated many research experiences by doing research
in Recombinant Protein Unit, Key Laboratory of
Enzymes and Protein Technology, Vietnam National
University, Hanoi. As a student in the Talented program of biology, I
was selected to participate three out of many projects under the
supervision of Professor Phan Tuan Nghia, who is currently the
Director of the Key Laboratory of Enzymes and Protein Technology.
This was a great opportunity for me because I had a
chance to approach to several modern biochemistry
and
molecular biology techniques such as recombination DNA, DNA
sequencing, gene expression etc. I was so proud that in the
Scientific Conference for students of my university, a third-year
student and I won the Third prize for our endeavor in research.

Defending my senior thesis with grade 10/10, I

graduated within the top 5% of the Faculty of Biology. My
passion of scientific research and my great endeavors of preparing
both my research and English skills are tied together and
drive me to work in Immunology Laboratory, National
Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology. I was fortunate to work
under the guidance of Professor Vu Tan Trao, who has had
a long-lasting collaboration with global partners,
especially the Dutch partners. She introduced me to her
area of expertise through the experience of practical
projects including “Identification of mechanisms
correlating with susceptibility for Avian Influenza
(IMECS)” and “Seroprevalence of Avian Influenza in Vietnam, 2010
- 2011” which were funded by European Commission (2009-2011)
and HJF Medical Research International, The US (2010-2011),
respectively. In fact, taking part in these projects has helped me get
not only the organizational and problem solving skills but
also many effective ways of team-work in both
theoretical and experimental issues. Working in a good research
environment increased my desire to study abroad, and
strengthened my wish for my country to improve
research conditions in the future. It is my
biggest aspiration to reach the best research environments, like
those in Europe.

The primary reason why I want to pursue this Master program is my

long-standing passion for
animal and biological science. However, the limited access to
research conditions in Vietnam has been a great obstacle.
This motivated me to pursue a higher education at a
foreign university where offers high quality of research facilities
and experienced specialists. Secondly, the rapid changes of global
warming have had a great impact on human population and animal
as well. As the effects of global warming, in fact, the
animal population in my country is going to be suffered
a lot due to frequent and large scale of floods, drought
as well as water shortage.
Consequently, livestock will become increasingly
stressed and restricted. Thus, I plan to specialize in the
field of animal breeding and genetics to become an expert to help
my country solve the problems caused by global warming and
environmental degradation. Unfortunately, the current financial
situation does not allow me to cover tuition fees and living expenses
for graduate studies in European universities. This scholarship is a
salvation since it could help me open the door to my dream of study
in Europe.

Truly, having a chance to attend this course would be a great

opportunity for me because it helps me very much for my
expectation and my future plans. I would like to return to my
country to work as a scientist and lecturer at a leading Vietnamese
university after completing my Master studies. In my opinion,
being a researcher and a teacher would enable me to
maximize my contribution to the development of my country in
terms of science and education. I strongly believe that the
knowledge gained from your excellent learning environment will
give me a systematic biochemical background to become a scientist
capable of dealing with the threat of tropical diseases in my
country. Moreover, as a lecturer, I would impart this knowledge as
well as my passion for biochemistry to generations of
Vietnamese students. In the long run, I would also like
to establish strong relationships with the European experts in
my field for further cooperation in both research and teaching after
I return to Vietnam.
I am fully aware that to successfully pursue an international Master
program demands a high level of intelligence, determination, and
personal sacrifice. I will try my best to meet these demands. I am
confident that I would make the best use of this prestigious
scholarship to fulfill my goals.

Candidate

Ho Xuan Hung
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

8. SoP # 8: Master’s course in Biomedical Sciences - HSP

LETTER OF MOTIVATION

Dear Sirs or Madams,

I am writing this letter to express my strong determination of

pursuing the Master’s course in Biomedical Sciences, track
Molecular and Cellular Biology at Utrecht University. It is my desire
that through these few words, I will be considered to be a
worthwhile candidate for the Huygens Scholarship program 2011.

To become a scientist has been one of my biggest dreams in my

childhood. What is life? What are the mechanisms underlying
complicated cellular activities? These initial curiosities drove me to
specialize in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology during my study
in Vietnam National University-Hanoi. After four years of diligently
exploring in this magnetic biological world, I am confident of my
decision: It is nurturing in me a growing aspiration to step into the
coming post-genomic era to reveal the secrets of life at molecular
and cellular scale. At present, I am honored to contribute to two
international research consortia, one concerned with Tuberculosis,
the “Tuberculosis rapid test” and the other with H5N1 “Population-
based exposure to H5N1 by detecting H5 antibodies in three
provinces of Vietnam”, which have provided me with distinct
advantages of knowing how to apply gained knowledge and skills to
particular situations. These works have also brought me a broader
view on one of the most emerging and challenging issues my
country is now facing that are dangerous and widespread diseases
such as bird flu, tuberculosis and other tropical infection. In fact,
gaining further insight into the complex relations at molecular and
cellular level will offer potential applications in drug design and
vaccine development to save lives and improve human health.
However, the more I experienced, the more I felt that my training in
Vietnam falls short of what I needed to effectively deal with these
heated problems.

Because of the proposed reasons, I desire to join this Master’s

course as I find its unique advances very meaningful to me. Firstly,
the program focuses on extensively understanding of molecular and
cellular mechanisms and on reaching a multidisciplinary approach
through advanced techniques, which meets my desire and upgrades
my previous education perfectly. Secondly, it would be a great
opportunity to broaden my perspective when I can study and do
research under the guidance of leading professors at Utrecht
University in this field. Given the fact that Utrecht University has
educated many well-known scientists, amongst them is my
employer, Prof. Vu Tan Trao, I believe that education in The
Netherlands, particularly in Utrecht University is the ideal
destination that I am looking for my academic journey. Another
distinct advantage provided is the opportunity to meet students of
various backgrounds and get an insight into different cultures. All
the knowledge acquired, ideas adopted and contacts made during
the course would effectively assist my future profession and
contribute to the growth of a new exciting disciplinary as
Biomedical Sciences in my home country.

As good scientists in high demand for improving higher education

and research quality in my country, our government is currently
increasing its attention in attracting its talented graduates from
overseas to come back to Vietnam. Therefore, upon graduation, I
strongly believe that I can make sound contributions to the
development in my country by being a lecturer and researcher. As a
lecturer, I would transfer in-depth knowledge and advanced
technologies to generations of Vietnamese students. Additionally,
the systematic biomedical background gained from this Master’s
course will help me become a scientist capable of dealing with the
threat of tropical diseases in my country. As having set my long-
term career in this field, I would also like to establish an
international network, attracting more collaborations and
investments as Prof. Vu Tan Trao achieved before. Thereby, I truly
think that studying at Utrecht University will fulfill my desire of
becoming a refined scientist, which affirms me for better
contributions to my country.

Pursuing higher education in The Netherlands sounds challenging

and adventurous for a young student at first. However, I am
convinced that I have enough intellectual ability and curiosity to
become an excellent researcher. I believe that my educational and
professional aspiration along with my strong determination that
“When there is a will, there is a way” will help me to overcome any
difficulty to achieve my goal. I sincerely hope that your prestigious
Huygens Scholarship program will provide me with a chance to
realize my dream of studying in a world-class educational
environment at Utrecht University and I would highly appreciate
your support. Thank you very much for considering my application
and I am looking forward to your positive reply.

Phan Huong Trang

------------------------------------------------------------------

9. SoP #9: Erasmus Mundus Master in Evolutionary Biology

Phan Huong
Trang

Hanoi, January 6th 2011

LETTER OF MOTIVATION

Erasmus Mundus Master in

Evolutionary Biology

I am writing to express my great interest and strong motivation

to apply for Erasmus Mundus Master in Evolutionary Biology and
wish to be granted the precious Erasmus Mundus Scholarship.

After graduating in June 2010, I have been working in National

Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). The exciting “Effect
of genetic variation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis on vaccine
escape and the acquisition of drug resistance” project collaborated
with University of Oslo is an investigation of my particular interest.
The project objective is studying the effect of BCG vaccination
and anti-TB drug on changes in the population
structure and characteristics of epidemic strains of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Vietnam using DNA
fingerprinting tool, which will help formulation of new
National Tuberculosis Prevention Program strategies and
greatly benefit Vietnam, one of many developing countries
suffering from an extremely serious TB problem. During the time
engaging in different projects, I well understand that one of the
hottest and most
challenging issues in my country lies in dangerous and
widespread diseases such as bird flu, tuberculosis,
malaria and other tropical diseases which are diversified and
change rapidly. Therefore, understanding the rationales underlying
evolution of these
microorganisms will play a crucial role in dealing with these
pressing issues, which is one of my most desirable researches.

While studying at university and partaking in

organizations and activities, I had some opportunities to
travel around Northern Vietnam which has given me a deeper
understanding of biodiversity in my homeland. I, however, also
realized that this treasure in biodiversity is decreasing in an
alarming rate, mostly because of human activities. We human are
taking too much from nature and make other species suffer from
the consequences of our irresponsible activities. Deforestation,
industrialization and illegal hunting are the main causes of putting
many endemic species in danger of extinction and this will be the
massive loss for
Vietnam’s biodiversity. Because of this reason, I am motivated to
study more about ecology and conservation and to work to
maintain the diversity in life form of my homeland.
 I desire to join this program as I find its unique advances very
beneficial and meaningful to me. Firstly, this MSc program is
definitely suitable with my interest, academic background
as well as working experiences. Secondly, the well-
organized and
effectively-structured courses, seminars, field practices and master
thesis that I need for the fulfillment of the course will deepen my
knowledge and make my research ability in evolution and
ecology study matured. As having set my long-term career
in
evolution, this course will offer me solid and diversified background
which is really essential for me to pursuing PhD degree. In addition,
entering into this advanced master course gives me an opportunity
to study with famous scholars from leading European institutes as
well as excellent students from different countries. Therefore, I not
only gain precious knowledge and experiences but also develop
communication skills, which are necessary for me to work in
international projects. Hence, I consider this program a stepping
stone to my future career success.

Considering the insufficient number of enthusiastic

and well-educated scientists of evolution and ecology
fields despite Vietnamese Government’s increasing attention,
upon finishing study, I hope to be a lecturer and
researcher so that I could maximize my contribution to
my country. As a lecturer, I would inspire the young
Vietnamese generation with the love and
awareness of protecting Vietnam natural biodiversity.
Additionally, I strongly believe that the knowledge and
experiences acquired from your excellent learning
environment will give me a molecular evolutionary
background to become a scientist capable of dealing with the
threat of tropical diseases in my country. Thereby, I truly think that
studying in your program will help fulfill my desire of becoming a
refined international scientist, which affirms me for better
contributions to my country.

Pursuing higher education in the Europe sounds challenging

and adventurous for a young student at first. However, I am
convinced that I have enough intellectual ability and
curiosity to become an excellent researcher. As you can
see from my
application profile, my greatest asset is the excellent background I
possess, which is result of my ceaseless endeavor. In addition, the
period working in the Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein
Technology and NIHE has enabled me to approach fundamental
techniques regarding many fields as Molecular Biology,
Microbiology, Biochemistry, Immunology etc and has provided me
with opportunities to conduct scientific research actively
and independently. I believe that these factors along
with my strong determination that “When there is a will, there is
a way” will help me to overcome any difficulty to achieve my goal. I
would appreciate if you could give me a chance to
participate in and to contribute to the excellence and
diversity of your advanced program.

Thank you very much for considering my application and I am

looking forward to your positive reply.

Yours sincerely,
 Phan Huong Trang

---------------------------
11. SOP #11 Motivation letter (max. 4000
characters) NordSecMob
Dear Sirs/Madams,
Being born in a small town in the North of Vietnam where is
vulnerable to poverty and limited access to high quality education, I
always long for a chance to experience the well-rounded education
of Europe and hold firm to my belief that it is the very place I can
explore and exploit my abilities. With high determination and self-
motivation, I have made great efforts to overcome difficulties and
pursue my dream.
Taking part in the Honors Program run by the Faculty of
Information Technology - University of Engineeringand Technology,
Vietnam National University (VNU), I had a chance to study with
gifted students from all over the country. Despite my limited
parental financial support, I have acquired knowledge,
distinguished myself as an outstanding student ranking among the
top students in the faculty and gaining several honors. Besides, I
had a chance to participate in the project led by Prof Trinh Nhat
Tien named “Proposal of Science and Technology Foundation and
Experiment for Implementation of Authentication Services Using
Digital Signatures in VNU”. My responsibility in the project was to
write applications to implement RSA signature, DES algorithm,
hashing algorithms using OpenSSL library and install it in the end
user computers. Through this project, I acquired valuable expertise
knowledge and skills. I also got useful experience in independent
researching and improved teamwork skill which are critical for my
future success.
I am now working as a teaching assistant at my university. I am
fully aware that we are responsible for cultivating talent for the
future generations of the country. Therefore, to fulfill such a
challenging mission I need to equip myself with profound
knowledge and research skills. In studying digital signature and
cryptography for the project and my graduation thesis, I have been
strongly interested in information security and privacy in
communication technology and chosen it as my life-long research
direction. However, the lack of resources in both expertise and
facilities has prevented highly self-motivated researchers like me
from conducting comprehensive researches.
The key driver urging me to apply for NordSecMob program is that
it is suitable for my career direction. My desired research area -
information security is one of key components of the program
structure. Also, the course offers other subjects in network
applications and mobile networking areas, all of which currently are
of public concern and promising for long-term development. In
addition, it is offered by a consortium of leading European higher
education institutions with first-rated scholars and facilities, which
creates an ideal learning and research environment. Also, the inter-
university feature of the program promises a diverse educational
environment that will help me mature my social and interpersonal
skills. Most importantly, the program will help me improve my
expertise and networking in the field of Information Security. For
all these reasons, I am convinced that this program is the very place
that can help to boost my career up. There will be a number of
challenges I have to face if I have a chance to participate in the
program. However, I believe that with my strong will and capacity I
will be able to achieve success. I know that as society becomes
increasingly dependent on information technology and information
management, a sufficient level of information security is vital. Thus,
by improving the research and practice of Information Security, I
will benefit the country’s development. Once I finish the program I
will have developed a broader range of knowledge and skills to best
engage in my work and have a well-built foundation for my
academic career towards doctoral level. Investment in my course
and me will surely prove well rewarded in time.
Yours sincerely,

Pham Thi Van Anh.

------------------------------------------------

13. SoP # 13: International Development Studies- HSP

STATEMENT OF MOTIVATION

Hereby I would like to express my wish to be granted the

prestigious Huygens Scholarship. Winning this scholarship would
enable me to enroll in my desired Dutch master programme and
pursue my goal.
My utmost passion for International Development Studies dates
back to my high-school years. My good command of English opened
my mind to things happening around the world and the status of my
country. Living in the fast-growing capital, I was also fascinated by
the changes that economic development brought. For this reason, I
tried my best to successfully enroll in Foreign Trade University to
study international business economics. During this time, stepping
outside the academic bubble to explore more, I participated whole-
heartedly in voluntary social activities, in which I was given the
privilege to work on community development projects. These
experiences developed my strong awareness of various challenges
Vietnam face as we move ahead with globalization, such as
increasing gaps between the rich and the poor, or unstable
economic growth at the expense of social and environmental
quality. I also met disadvantaged people who are often left behind
in this process. It is these people that made me feel compelled to
make direct contributions to addressing these issues. Having
worked with international volunteers, I also appreciated the
international efforts involved in the development of my country. My
goal was then set: to develop a career in international development
work.
As this goal was set early on, I have been working really hard to
achieve it. Understanding the importance of knowledge to the field,
I put a lot of efforts into my study at university. I have also tried to
gain practical insights on different aspects of development work,
especially in international environments. My current employment at
Save the Children involves field work in the most disadvantaged
regions of Vietnam, where I witnessed extreme poverty and
isolation. This experience further enriched me with stronger-than-
ever drive to success. During working, I have been exposed to a lot
of questions: How to evaluate the influences our projects are
making on children and the community in the long run, both socially
and economically? How to optimize the coordination between
different stakeholders – indigenous communities, governments, etc.
– to bring about significant impacts? I want to be able to interpret
what I have observed, turn them into ideas for solutions and apply
them to policies, strategies and management approaches. I strongly
feel a master course would be a rewarding journey and necessary
complement to my career development.
Therefore, I was very delighted to find the Master in International
Development Studies at Wageningen University, the Netherlands.
The university’s motto “For quality of life” aligns with my desire to
improve people’s lives. Within the program, the Economics of
Development track can enable me to thrive on my strong
background in economics to develop specific knowledge needed for
planning, implementing and evaluating development projects,
programs, strategies… from an economic perspective. Additionally,
the flexible, cooperation-based and interdisciplinary nature of the
programme is truly exciting, because my diverse experiences have
prepared me to deal with various interrelated issues a developing
country must face. On completing the course, equipped with both
in-depth know-hows and knowledge, I would definitely come back to
Vietnam to assist my local peers in development programmes. My
first option would be to come back to Save the Children and help
create positive influences on the next generations of the country.
Additionally, I am convinced the Netherlands is an ideal place for
international development studies. The country is globally
renowned for its problem-based learning system and expert position
in the field of international studies. As the Netherlands is the
gateway to Europe with a large number of students from all walks
of the world, I would also get endless opportunities to explore other
cultures, exchange perspectives, create networks, as well as to
share development experiences and solutions. Last but not least, as
a student of Hanoi - Amsterdam High school for the Gifted, I have
always adored the peaceful country whose capital my school was
named after. I also have a long-distance 2-year friendship with a
Dutch volunteer whom I met on a voluntary project. Coming to the
Netherlands as a student is a great way to strengthen my special
bond to this country.
With this submission I hope to convince you that I am a worthy
candidate for HSP. Having worked in non-profit organizations,
without a scholarship, I cannot afford education in a developed
country. This makes winning HSP even more important to me and
my life onwards.

Trang Nguyen

15. SoP # 15: CoMEM

My dream of pursuing postgraduate program in Europe dates back
to summer, 2006 when I had an opportunity to visit my older sister
following her master program in the Netherlands. Europe has made
a big impression on me by its ancient beauty, friendly people and
especially modern academic study and research environment. Since
then, “European dream” of a freshman has actually been started. I
am writing to express my interest in your CoMEM Erasmus Mundus
Masters Course program and would like to explain my motivation
briefly for your consideration on granting me the admission and
scholarships.
I started my expedition in the field of Coastal Engineering with my
undergraduate years in Water Resources University, Hanoi,
Vietnam. Thanks to WRU’s rich resources, I was provided a solid
foundation in natural and social sciences as well as in my major.
Devoted and hardworking at university, I achieved outstanding
records in the courses I have taken. With the overall GPA of
8.24/10, I was honorably ranked in the top 3 of my class of sixty
students. As you can see in my CV, all of prizes and scholarships I
got during my undergraduate study also reflected my achievements.
Recognizing the importance of practical experience, I participated
in scientific research since my junior year. Among all of scientific
researches done at university, I am very proud of the research
carried out in my 4th year titled “Application of MIKE21 software in
researching hydrological and hydraulic conditions of Quang Hue
confluence, Vu Gia – Thu Bon river basin, Quang Nam province,
Vietnam”. Da Nang and Hoi An are two main socioeconomic centres
in the Central of Vietnam and my scientific research is part of a
project aimed to protect these two cities from flooding as well as
supply water for people’s livelihood and irrigation. In terms of
technique, the results of this research were applied in practice in
order to consider long-term stabilization solutions, mitigate erosion,
control river discharge in order to reach the goal of regional
sustainable development. My main responsibility was installing
hydrodynamics simulation based on practical conditions. Through
this project, I acquired a great deal of hands-on experiences in
modeling, database management which could hardly be found in the
textbooks. Besides, it has also particularly cultivated me to me more
active in research. My research was then highly appreciated by the
scientific and technical council and I was awarded many prizes at
different levels including VIFOTEC, a very honorable prize jointly
awarded by Ministry of Education and Training and Vietnam fund
for supporting technological creations.
The greatest benefit I have achieved for the last 5 years, however, is
not awards and honors but immensely-broadened vision. As a vice-
monitor of my class and Youth Union member of my faculty for
continually 5 years, I had many opportunities to develop my abilities
of management and leadership. I am proud of being the founder of
WRU English club where members can share the experience of
learning English (April, 2009), chief of organizing committee of
many extra-curricular activities. Besides, I also took part in many
sport activities, music and fine arts which could bring me more
energy and strength for study. In recognition of my contribution to
Youth Union movement, I was selected as the only candidate of my
university to get the January Stars prize which is reservedly for
Youth Union leaders with excellent academic result. It was a great
honor for me to be one of 247 students nationwide awarded this
prize in academic year 2009 – 2010.
During my senior year at university, I accidentally got my first job.
Khoi Dau Moi project which aims to develop soft skills for students
in two biggest cities in Vietnam: Hanoi and Hochiminh city was
found in October, 2009. I knew it and registered as a member. I
have still remembered the day of 22nd November, 2009 when an
off-line meeting between project management board and members
was held. At the end of that meeting, the project founder, Mr. Cao
Duy Phong – CEO of Hasaico group, had a short private
conversation with me and suggested an employment opportunity. It
is hard to believe that a 22-year-old senior student without any
working experience was selected as chief of project management
board. To be honest, I could not refuse that attractive invitation and
the following day was my first professional workday. Afterwards, I
was responsible for CEO assistant additionally. Why did he recruit
me, a complete young and pure student? Just a long time later, he
said that he really appreciated my inside ability and value which are
absolutely different from those of the others through my behavior as
well as the way of asking and answering questions. It could be said
that I was lucky. However, I think I had already well-equipped
myself with different skills in order to get that luck thanks to extra-
curricular activities I had taken part in. There is an interesting
sentence which fascinates me very much. It belongs to Alan Bond, a
famous Australian businessman and entrepreneur “I’ve always
worked very, very hard, and the harder I worked, the luckier I got”.
It is right, at least in my case. Nearly one year working here, I was
offered a great opportunity to work with and learn from other
experienced and skilled colleagues and my chief who always
impressed me with their enthusiasm and specialism. More
importantly, many opportunities of meeting other CEOs, successful
businessman have significantly encouraged me to strive more and
more in order to reach my career goal.
With the idea of becoming a top specialist working for Royal
Haskoning Vietnam, a leading, independent engineering consultant
group, I would like to make a small contribution to my motherland
which will be greatly affected by global climate change in the
coming decades. Global climate change causes many phenomenon
such as sea rise level, severe natural hazards which have seriously
influenced people and environment, especially in the coastal zones.
Therefore, coastal and ocean environment protection, living
conditions and life quality enhancement should be paid much more
attention. Problems mentioned above are also of my interest.
Therefore, if being granted an opportunity to further my study, I
would mainly focus my master thesis on following topics: 1)
Applying GIS tool and softwares to locate vulnerable areas due to
sea rise level on a digital map in the Central of Vietnam. The North
and the South which are less affected will be considered later. 2)
Using DELFT3D to stimulate coastal morphology at Cua Hoi
estuary, Nghe An province, Vietnam in order to resolve remaining
issues of my undergraduate thesis topic. 3) Applying EIA
(environmental impact assessment) tool to analyze, assess and
forecast different prospective impacts at Cua Hoi estuary, Nghe An
province, Vietnam. Of the three topics listed, I intend to spend
much time on EIA. That is the reason why I would devote the 3rd
and 4th semester at university of Southampton.
By carefully reading the overall introduction of CoMEM program
from the internet, I found that many subjects match my major very
much, such as “Integrated coastal zone management”, “Bed, bank
and shore protection”, “Probabilistic design”, “Coastal
morphodynamics”. Moreover, this Master’s program offered by a
consortium of five high-rated European universities would give me
great possibility to learn with famous scholars, excellent students
and gain precious practical experiences. I am very eager to
integrate into new environment, learn from the others and get
connected in a network. That is why screening for a suitable
program, I consider CoMEM Erasmus Mundus Masters Course as
my best choice because of its unique, specialized and
interdisciplinary features that allow students to travel different
countries to attend various courses as well as get an in-depth
understanding and real experience of European society.
In conclusion, I well understand the great pressure and challenges
that will be presented to me when studying in your program and I
am fully prepared to begin the life of a graduate student. With great
passion and motivation, I am confident that I am a worthy candidate
for your program.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration, and I do look
forward to your favourable reply.
Your faithfully,
VMD.

16. SoP # 16: Flood risk management

My dream of pursuing postgraduate program in Europe dates back
to summer, 2006 when I had an opportunity to visit my older sister
following her master program in the Netherlands. Europe has made
a big impression on me by its ancient beauty, friendly people and
especially modern academic study and research environment. Since
then, “European dream” of a freshman has actually been started. I
am writing to express my interest in your master program of The
Erasmus Mundus Programme in Flood Risk Management and would
like to explain my motivation in a few words for your consideration
on granting me the admission and scholarship.
I started my expedition in the field of Coastal Engineering with my
undergraduate years in Water Resources University, Hanoi,
Vietnam. Thanks to WRU’s rich resources, I was provided a solid
foundation in natural and social sciences as well as in my major.
Devoted and hardworking at university, I achieved outstanding
records in many courses and with the overall GPA of 8.24/10, I was
honorably ranked in the top 3 of my class of sixty students. As you
can see in my CV, all of prizes and scholarships I got during my
undergraduate study also reflected my achievements.
Recognizing the importance of practical experience, I participated
in scientific research since my junior year. Among all of scientific
researches done at university, I am very proud of the research
carried out in my 4th year titled “Application of MIKE21 software in
researching hydrological and hydraulic conditions of Quang Hue
confluence, Vu Gia – Thu Bon river basin, Quang Nam province,
Vietnam”. Da Nang and Hoi An are two main socioeconomic centres
in the Central of Vietnam and my scientific research is part of a
project aimed to protect these two cities from flooding as well as
supply water for people’s livelihood and irrigation. In terms of
technique, the results of this research were applied in practice to
propose long-term stabilization solutions, mitigate erosion and
control river discharge in order to reach the goal of regional
sustainable development. My main responsibility was installing
hydrodynamics simulation based on practical conditions. Through
this project, I acquired a great deal of hands-on experiences in
modeling, database management which could hardly be found in the
textbooks. Besides, it has also particularly cultivated me to me more
active in research. My research was then highly appreciated by the
scientific and technical council and I was awarded many prizes at
different levels including VIFOTEC, a very honorable prize jointly
awarded by Ministry of Education and Training and Vietnam fund
for supporting technological creations.
The greatest benefit I have achieved for the last 5 years, however, is
not awards and honors but immensely-broadened vision. As a vice-
monitor of my class and Youth Union member of my faculty for
continually 5 years, I had many opportunities to develop my abilities
of management and leadership. I am proud of being the founder of
WRU English club where members can share the experience of
learning English, chief of organizing committee of many extra-
curricular activities. Besides, I also took part in many sport
activities, music and fine arts which could bring me more energy
and strength for study. In recognition of my contribution to Youth
Union movement, I was selected as the only candidate of my
university to get the January Stars prize which is reservedly for
Youth Union leaders with excellent academic result. It was a great
honor for me to be one of 247 students nationwide awarded this
prize in academic year 2009 – 2010.
By carefully reading the overall introduction of your program, I
found that many courses match my major very much, e.g.
“Hydraulic Engineering”, “Hydromechanics”, “Statistics”,
“Meteorology and Hydrology”, “GIS”. Moreover, this program
offered by a consortium of four high-rated European universities
and many associated members would give me great possibility to
learn with famous scholars, excellent students and gain precious
practical experiences. I am very eager to integrate into new
environment, learn from the others and get connected in a network.
This would make it important for me to come back to my
motherland – Vietnam where will be greatly affected by global
climate change in the coming decades. That is why screening for a
suitable program, I consider your program as my best choice
because of its unique, specialized and interdisciplinary features that
allow students to travel different countries to attend various
courses as well as get an in-depth understanding and real
experience of European society.
In conclusion, I well understand the great pressure and challenges
that will be presented to me when studying in your program and I
am fully prepared to begin the life of a graduate student. With great
passion and motivation, I am confident that I am a worthy candidate
for your program.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration, and I do look
forward to your favourable reply.
Your faithfully,
VMD.

17. SoP # 17: Aquaculture

The importance of post-graduate education to myself derives from

the current aquaculture situation and the realistic demands for the
development of my hometown. To give a specific example, high-tech
equipments have been supplied but we lacked of well-trained and
skillful specialists to operate them. Besides, practically there have
been no commercial vaccines for aquaculture produced in Vietnam
due to the lack of specialized knowledge in immunology. These
reasons have motivated me to take a master degree in aquaculture
so as to adopt information and technologies that have been widely
used in modern aquaculture but still insufficient in Vietnam.
During my bachelor training in Aquatic Pathobiology, I had learned
several techniques involving freshwater fish farming, aquatic
animal disease diagnosis and water quality management; and had
opportunities to put them into practice. During my excursion in a
large-scaled ‘Tra’ catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) farm in Dong
Thap, I successfully worked in cooperation with the local farmers to
help them in treatment of bacillary necrosis caused by Edwardsiella
ictaluri in ‘Tra’ catfish, by antibiotic susceptibility test. Besides, in
my 4th academic year, I had an eight-month period attending and
working for "Vaccination in Aquaculture in Vietnam" project
(cooperation between Can Tho University and PharmaQ Company
(Norway)) with the professors from different countries, and
mastered some new laboratorial techniques including hematology,
immunology, histopathology, and more importantly, the working
skills and scientific methodologies. Finally, my bachelor dissertation
was carried out to assess the macrophage functionalities in
immunological response against E. ictaluri together with the
histological changes of the ‘Tra’ catfish upon vaccination by
injection. The results showed significant efficacy of the vaccine at
both cell and tissue levels, and the prospective application of the
vaccine in Vietnam. However, further studies in the mechanism of
immunological tolerance and response, as well as the production of
vaccine were not taken into consideration since I did not have
enough expertise to deal with them. These experiences did
strengthen my confidence in pursuing a master programme in
aquaculture, especially the field of fish pathology.
I found that Ghent University would be a very suitable place for my
higher study in aquaculture under the support of VLIR-UOS
Scholarship Programme. More specifically, I aim to follow the
Aquaculture Master Programme (former Master in Aquaculture
and Fisheries) at Ghent University. The programme deals not only
with the culture of numerous aquatic species, but also the
application of biotechnology in the production of several bio-active
compounds such as monoclonal antibodies, vaccines by means of
marine animal cells. Through the courses, I believe I could clearly
understand the antigen recognition; and the mechanism of
immunological tolerance and response when fish are vaccinated. I
passionately concern in the project “Histophysiologies of the
immune response of fish”, conducted by the group of Professor Jan
Rombout at the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Immunology, who
attempts to set a production of vaccine in plants and to incorporate
them into fish feed. Most of their research has been done in carp, in
which cellular and molecular tools are used to get a better
knowledge on how fish can be protected on the mucosal level. This
project is definitely the most relevant to my immunological
expertise and bachelor thesis since it provides me intensive
knowledge about fish immunology. These applications, indeed, play
great practical meanings to the general situation of aquaculture in
Vietnam, as I mentioned above. Moreover, when attending the
master programme at Ghent University, I will have chances to
access to some advanced research facilities and learning resources,
which are still limited in Vietnam.
Studying in Belgium also offers me a great chance to exchange the
culture with the local people, and thus that would help promoting
the friendship between the two countries afterwards. After finishing
the Master programme in Ghent University, I will return to my
country to work as a lecturer and conduct some researches in
vaccination field. Besides, I could also conduct some short-term
training courses for the farmers. Through these courses, they would
have more chances to access new information and technology in
order to enhance their farm activities and then improve their lives.
Importantly, they can get much more understanding in the field of
aquaculture as well as the role of environmental protection.
Furthermore, pursuing a PhD research is also the next step for my
education, which would be oriented further in the genetic basis of
the pathogens, or more generally, the biotechnological applications
in aquaculture.
With achievements and expertise obtained, I strongly believe that I
have adequate competence to internationally undertake the Master
programme at Ghent University. VLIR-UOS Scholarship Programme
has been such a meaningful support to Vietnam since it has offered
excellent students opportunities to study abroad and make a great
contribution to Vietnam afterwards. In the era in which “knowledge
is power”, this support will be of the greatest value.
Ho Phuong Pham Duy Phong