NYUAD didn’t just teach me how to learn, it inspired me to push the boundaries of science and rethink what’s possible. My legal studies degree honed my ability to critically analyze policies and laws, while data science courses equipped me to test hypotheses effectively. These interdisciplinary insights culminated in my senior thesis on environmental sustainability law and governance, which opened doors to research roles with UNDP, UK Aid, and Ma’an-funded projects. Through these roles, I explored how well-intentioned policies can unintentionally deepen inequalities, leaving marginalized communities vulnerable. Notably, two of these projects were presented at COP28 by my co-authors. Now, as a doctoral student at Peking University, I’m committed to advancing our understanding of ecosystem strategies that promote responsible innovation, continuing the journey NYUAD inspired me to embark upon.
My research interests center on entrepreneurship and innovation strategies in emerging economies, particularly the role of public policy and social movements in shaping entrepreneurial ecosystems, business models, and innovation dynamics. Given these interests, pursuing doctoral studies at a leading business school in an emerging economy felt like a natural choice, as it would provide invaluable opportunities for fieldwork and access to rich data sources.
Home Region: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Current: MRes and PhD Candidate at Peking University
Location: Beijing, China
Major: Legal Studies
China, and specifically Peking University, aligns perfectly with these goals. China represents a compelling case study of how public policy can successfully drive a thriving innovation ecosystem. The country is also experiencing a surge of tech startups, providing a wealth of data and case studies to deepen my understanding of innovation strategies.
Within China, the Guanghua School of Management at Peking University stood out as an ideal fit. As one of the most prestigious business schools in the country, Guanghua offers access to a diverse and dynamic academic environment. Its renowned MBA and EMBA programs, which attract tech founders and entrepreneurs from across China and internationally each year, further enhance the availability of high-quality data and connections that align with my research focus. Choosing this path was both strategic and purposeful, ensuring that my doctoral studies would be grounded in a context that aligns with my academic ambitions and equips me with the resources to make meaningful contributions to the field.
What I enjoy the most is the freedom of time and financial support over the next five years to fully explore my research interests. Unlike many doctoral programs in the U.S., where funding often requires mandatory Research Assistantships or Teaching Assistantships, Peking University provides doctoral students with full autonomy and funding to pursue their research interests under the guidance of faculty. This flexibility allows me to dedicate my full effort to collecting data, engaging with entrepreneurs, and even continuing to manage my own businesses in Vietnam while pursuing my degree. The freedom to focus on my interests also extends to collaborating with scholars outside my university. For instance, I am currently a research associate at the Transition Investment Lab under Professor Bortolotti and a policy researcher on UNDP-funded projects addressing Just Energy Transition and Circular Economy in Vietnam.
Growing up in a crime-ridden district, I witnessed firsthand how necessity-driven businesses, social enterprises, and frugal innovations not only enriched entrepreneurs but also sparked positive change and created opportunities for the wider community. However, I often saw promising initiatives struggle to make a lasting impact, held back by challenges in profitability and scalability. It was frustrating to watch successful models and innovations with the potential to help even more people fall short of expanding or being adopted on a larger scale. My goal is to pursue a career as a professor at a business school, where I can advance our understanding of entrepreneurial strategies, entrepreneurial ecosystems, and the role of state in the creation and diffusion of innovation in emerging economies