Trần Thị Thu Thảo, a former student of the Social Studies program with a minor in Psychology at Fulbright University Vietnam, is a young woman passionate about diverse learning experiences. From the 10th grade, Thảo has been actively seeking out opportunities to learn through practical experiences. She subsequently initiated a project to co-create, share, and disseminate opportunities for hands-on learning, especially in career guidance and experiential education, for fellow students with similar aspirations.

Long Khánh on the Road (the predecessor of ROAD) offered students opportunities to explore and shape their futures. Initially, the initiative focused on activities in Thảo’s hometown of Long Khánh, Đồng Nai. However, due to its innovative and effective approach, the project expanded to various regions in Vietnam, leading to the establishment of the educational enterprise ROAD to scale up operations and develop solutions with meaningful practical value for the community.

After four years of relentless effort, Thảo and her team have implemented 34 programs, providing practical experiences for over 7,500 students and 229 teachers from numerous provinces across Vietnam.

Thảo’s decision to pursue both Social Studies and Psychology

is the result of an exciting self-discovery journey. Initially, she aspired to study Economics. However, after exploring various exploratory courses, she realized she was more curious about social issues and human stories. In-depth discussions with professors, real-world projects, and opportunities to connect with professionals in the field opened up numerous growth opportunities for her.

“The Fulbright environment fosters understanding and encourages each individual to be open to diverse perspectives. Here, students have a safe space to interact, express themselves, and learn,” she shared.

With ROAD,

Thảo and her team aim to provide students with authentic educational experiences that combine STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) knowledge with extracurricular activities like summer camps for self-discovery, debates, and personal finance. Over four years of development, ROAD has achieved significant milestones: Thảo and her team have implemented over 30 programs, providing practical experiences for over 7,500 students nationwide, partnered with more than 10 educational institutions, and raised over 300 million đồng in funding from the community and partners.

Most recently, ROAD successfully organized a series of activities, including STEM lesson plan design training for over 20 teachers at Ten Lơ Man School in Ho Chi Minh City and the establishment of a STEM club at Văn Hiến High School in Long Khánh, Đồng Nai.

Through practical activities,

the project not only helps students acquire knowledge but also develops their problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking skills. Additionally, ROAD aims to support students in career orientation, helping them discover their potential and choose the right path for themselves.

One of Thảo’s core values is sustainable development. She shares: “The main goal of the business is to maximize the use of resources and exploit the community’s potential.” Therefore, ROAD frequently organizes workshops and seminars to enhance the capacity and unleash the special potential of each individual.

On her journey with ROAD,

Thảo has faced many challenges, from managing a passionate young team to building and maintaining partnerships. However, these real-world experiences have helped Thảo grow exponentially and equip her with solid business management skills.

“The key is not to be greedy: just enough fun, just enough challenge, just enough success. In this way, I don’t feel too pressured, but I still see the progress of myself and the project.” That’s what Thảo learned while accompanying and growing with ROAD.

We wish Thảo and her enterprise continued success in fulfilling their mission!