I often reflect on the words in John 16:33 (NIV), where Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” These words have become an anchor in my life when trying to forge ahead, and a deep source of gratitude as I look back.
I did not grow up with financial security or opportunities handed to me. My childhood in Vietnam was marked by the challenge of daily survival. There were days when my family had barely enough money to afford food, let alone school supplies or tuition. I knew early on that education wasn’t just a privilege—it was the only path forward. Despite my circumstances, I still had a deep desire to learn and a resilient spirit, shaped by my family, my faith, and the mentors who believed in me.
But how could someone like me, a girl from a family with limited financial resources, even dream of finishing school? I often wondered if the steps I was taking would ever get me over such a mountain of a challenge. The answer came through grace and guidance. My parents, though unable to give me wealth, gave me something richer: encouragement that I could obtain the education I desired and a heart for perseverance. With their instruction, encouragement, and the support of generous philanthropists, I began entering national and international contests and competitive exams, not just for the accolades, but because they offered scholarships—the key to keeping my dream alive.
By God’s grace, I was honored with the Vietnam Young Talent Award, which opened the door to a full scholarship to pursue my Master of Business Administration in the United States. It was a tremendous blessing—but it also meant leaving everything familiar behind: my family, my culture, and even my native language.
Once again, I was unsure and facing another mountain to climb. I arrived in America filled with anxiety, but also with a quiet conviction: I must succeed. Not just for myself, but for my family back home and for the younger siblings who looked up to me. And most of all, I had to believe that if grace from God had carried me this far, there would be more to push me across the finish line. I studied hard, worked whenever I could, and held onto my faith. With each semester, each new challenge, I discovered a deeper layer of resilience I didn’t know I had, and I thanked God for each new milestone as I passed it.
Now, I’m not only a student—I take on roles as a developing researcher, a mentor to international students, and an advocate for youth and faith-based growth.
My work focuses on youth development, positive psychology, and the influence of media and faith. I believe that faith-based values can help young people build a meaningful life, fostering resilience against the negative effects of technology and artificial intelligence. Through my research, I hope to uplift the next generation—to help them discover identity, purpose, and hope in their journey. Hopefully they can experience firsthand the joy of accomplishment and the sense of gratitude that comes from leaning on one’s faith and trusting in oneself.
Looking back, I see clearly how God has led, carried, and even pushed me through every closed door and stormy season. His presence showed up in the teachers who saw potential in me, in the church members who prayed for me, and in the quiet moments when all I had was hope and Scripture. Even in a foreign land, God placed friends, mentors, and professors in my life who helped me grow. With His help, I earned more scholarships, balanced work and study, and was eventually accepted into a Ph.D. program in Instructional Leadership at La Sierra University.
I once questioned how a girl from humble beginnings could ever change her world. But now I believe what Scripture says in Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Resilience isn’t just about pushing through pain—it’s about trusting that God’s purpose is greater than our circumstances. My journey has taught me that no matter how limited your resources may be, if you trust in God, work hard, and hold on to your calling, He will make a way, and He can even provide a greater reward than you imagined.
So, to anyone who feels like giving up: if I can do it, you can do it too.
Vy Cao is a Ph.D. candidate in Instructional Leadership at La Sierra University. She mentors international students, volunteers in her community, and actively engages in academic research. When she’s not studying or serving others, Vy enjoys gardening and reflecting on God’s blessings.