Nguyen Dao Thuy An, a Class of 2025 Psychology graduate from Fulbright University Vietnam, is now on a journey to become an Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT), supporting children with developmental challenges at Learning Strategies – a pioneering organization in Vietnam that provides services to families and children with developmental and intellectual disabilities and related behavioral concerns. Thuy An’s work focuses on early intervention, helping children on the autism spectrum or with ADHD improve their behaviors, gain independence, and enhance their quality of life.
Thuy An never initially planned to pursue Psychology. Her journey began when she attended a mental health training session organized by Fulbright’s CIDO (Community Improvement & Development Organization) – a student-led initiative at Fulbright University Vietnam that aims to improve and develop communities while fostering a spirit of social engagement among young people. From that moment, she grew curious, then passionate about understanding human psychology – and, in turn, herself.
Nguyen Dao Thuy An, a Class of 2025 Psychology graduate from Fulbright University Vietnam, is now on a journey to become an Applied Behavior Analysis Technician, supporting children with developmental challenges at Learning Strategies
Her academic journey at Fulbright gradually helped her shape a clearer career path. Courses such as Developmental Psychology, or Personality Psychology of Dr. Hoang Minh To Nga, gave her a profound understanding of the impact of early psychological intervention in children’s development. She also worked as a research assistant for the project “Enhancing High School Students’ Happiness in the Context of Educational Reform”, which focused on mental wellbeing in schools. At the same time, her involvement with CIDO’s children-focused initiatives gave her more opportunities to apply what she learned.
A major turning point came when Thuy An enrolled in the course Applied Behavior Analysis for Early Childhood Development, taught by Tony Louw, MA, MSc – who later became her advisor and current supervisor at Learning Strategies. This course provided her with both the knowledge and real-world clarity that motivated her to pursue an internship at the company and earn her ABAT certification after graduation.
Thuy An never initially planned to pursue Psychology.
“Even though the job comes with pressure and challenges, I still believe it’s all worth it,” Thuy An shared. “Seeing each child’s progress gives me so much motivation and purpose.”
Reflecting on her four years at Fulbright, Thuy An believes the most valuable thing she gained was “a true sense of belonging.” From her peers and professors to the clubs she joined, every part of her Fulbright experience created a trusting and supportive environment where she felt safe to try, fail, and grow. It was this sense of connection that gave her the courage to step outside her comfort zone – and ultimately find a path she truly loves.
Courses such as Personality Psychology, taught by Dr. Hoang Minh To Nga, gave her a profound understanding of the impact of early psychological intervention in children’s development.
