It has been nearly three years since Dr. Le Nhat Tan began working alongside faculty and students of Fulbright University Vietnam as a lecturer in Applied Mathematics. His journey of bringing the approachable and beauty of Mathematics to the industries, students, and researchers is a synthesis of many stages of learning, working, and countless realizations. Starting as a lecturer in Advanced Mathematics at universities in Phu Yen province and Ho Chi Minh City, then becoming involved as Director of Data Analytics at major financial institutions, he came to Fulbright ready to bring knowledge ashore. Dr. Le Nhat Tan’s journey is a story of a passion for continuous learning and always pushing personal boundaries.
Dr. Le Nhat Tan has been accompanying the Applied Mathematics major at Fulbright for more than three years
The beginning of all changes
As a son of Phu Yen province with the beauty of simplicity and traditional values, like many other families, he was encouraged by his parents to pursue a teaching career because of the “stability” it brings, and partly because of his passion for Mathematics. Following his parents’ wishes, he set aside his interest in Computer Science and the opportunity to attend the talented bachelor’s program at Da Nang University of Science and Technology. The 18-year-old boy chose to complete his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics at Quy Nhon University. In 2010, he became a lecturer in Advanced Mathematics at Central Vietnam University of Construction. In 2012, he was awarded a full PhD scholarship in Applied Mathematics at the University of Wollongong, Australia.
Dr. Le Nhat Tan enthusiastically presented his idea during Fulbright’s Applied Mathematics lecture in October 2024.
After studying in Australia, he returned to Vietnam as a lecturer in Advanced Mathematics at International University – National University of Ho Chi Minh City. Besides the joy of feeling that students were interested in the knowledge he provided, he sometimes faced questions that made him ponder, such as: “Teacher, how will this Math theory be applied after learning it?” He often replied, “Just learn it and you will know how to apply it one day.” However, at that time, he was not satisfied with his response, and, driven by the desire to seek practical knowledge to support students, he self-studied applied algorithms and explored job opportunities in financial organizations. When the opportunity arose, he took on the role of Director of the Data Analysis Department for three years at Orient Commercial Bank (OCB) and Shinhan Finance.
This valuable working time has helped him recognize the effective application of Mathematics in many practical issues of business and life. However, working in a bank can only assist some customers and colleagues, while teaching can help many students who struggle with math or do not know how to appreciate and apply math in life. Realizing this, Dr. Lê Nhật Tân joined Fulbright University Vietnam to once again pursue a teaching career.
The right teaching method will create potential students
With the Ph.D., the time spent pursuing doctoral studies in Australia changed his’s perception of education, specifically in terms of teaching methods and fostering a passion for learning in each student.
“I believe that in the future, Applied Mathematics will become a new trend as everyone focuses on the practical effectiveness it brings. Perhaps initially, Fulbright University students, specifically Applied Mathematics students, will take a lot of time to ask questions, delve into, and consider different aspects of any problems. But in the long run, their perseverance, sharp thinking, and ability to adapt quickly will be able to go the distance with employers. They are not afraid of new things, that why they absorb new things very quickly.”
While teaching, he always tries to listen to feedback and discuss students’ questions directly in class.
Sharing about the reason for choosing Fulbright as a companion on his teaching journey, Professor Tan expressed his desire to find a place that encourages students’ personal thoughts to understand how they view the beauty of mathematics. When coming to Fulbright, he was pleasantly surprised and inspired by students who know how to listen, possess independent thinking, and always find ways to share their thoughts and ideas with instructors.
“The curriculum at Fulbright allows students to arrange and plan their own learning journey. Therefore, I know that students come to my class out of curiosity for mathematics rather than as a requirement to complete a pre-prepared path. Thus, I teach in a comfortable mindset to engage with them, especially during office hours, allowing them to express their questions and concerns. Those moments make me feel that the gap between teacher and student becomes closer, giving me many opportunities to listen to them share about their learning, dreams, and goals. From there, I understand how I can accompany them.”
Moreover, I find that students have independent thinking and good interdisciplinary skills to develop their thinking comprehensively and diversely. I have taught students who study both Literature and Applied Mathematics to balance their inner self while understanding how to utilize mathematics in real life to meet their personal needs.
“Right attitude is the key principle to help students progress further”
“In my teaching process, I always encourage students to have the right method coupled with the right attitude. This means that students must equip themselves with adequate knowledge, learn, organize their time correctly, prioritize their studies, and create discipline for themselves so that confidence will come naturally. The right method also means discovering what one wants; after that, the right attitude will help students decide what they must do to achieve their desires. I think knowledge can be obtained anywhere, anytime, but cultivating discipline and a learning spirit is a challenging journey that will bear fruit if students persevere.”
Dr. Tan and students in the Applied Mathematics major regularly meet to discuss knowledge and also career guidance.
At Fulbright, the connection between faculty and students lies not only in classroom lectures but also through emails expressing confusion, and concern about work and studies. As a result, being an educator at Fulbright is more than just conveying knowledge; it also means being a companion for students on their journey to conquer milestones in their youth.
The inspiring teaching and learning journey led by Dr. Le Nhat Tan, with its diversity and dedication, continues to be passed down among students as proof that the exploration of oneself is a lifelong story, not just limited to youth.
Wishing you health and a passion for teaching, with love for mathematics!
Nhu Y
