This morning, at Fulbright University Vietnam’s Commencement 2025, astronaut and activist Amanda Nguyen captivated the audience as the esteemed Honored Speaker.
Drawing profound lessons from her own life journey, she imparted four crucial pieces of advice to the graduating class. Her first point was empathy. Second, the recognition that we are a multitude. Third, courage. And finally, love.
With heartfelt authenticity, Amanda shared personal anecdotes from her remarkable path—from successfully advocating for the UN Resolution on the Rights of Rape Victims to navigating her own bicultural identity.
Furthermore, she articulated her powerful aspiration: not merely to be the first female astronaut from Vietnam, but rather for her pioneering spirit to forge a path for future generations of women. “Class of 2025 graduates,” she urged, “may you discover what your dreams are, may you have the courage to hold on to your dreams, and may they all come true.”
