Many students in Vietnam face difficulties securing internships, with many sending applications widely but receiving no responses, as experience requirements remain a significant barrier for soon-to-graduate individuals.

They view the requirement for work experience as a paradox, particularly for those embarking on their first real-world experience.

Thu Thuy, a senior at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, has been looking for an internship for over three months but has struggled to find a suitable position due to employers’ demand for prior experience.

Instead of gaining work experience from her first year, Thuy focused on academics, and now, in her final year, she finds that even her prior role as a teaching assistant at a Chinese language center is not enough to impress employers.

“I’ve sent my CV to many places,” Thuy said.

“Many job descriptions ask for at least three months of experience, or no experience, but when I hear back, they say I’m not qualified.”

She acknowledges that the demand for qualifications and experience is understandable amid fierce competition in the job market. 

However, for students balancing academics and searching for internships, meeting these criteria remains a challenge.

“Given pressure to submit [internship] reports, we’re forced to take whatever internship is available, even if we know it won’t help our future career,” she said.

Similarly, Nguyen Sy Tram Anh, a senior business management student at the University of Finance - Marketing, shared that due to scheduling conflicts with the internship program arranged by her faculty, she was unable to participate and had to find an internship placement on her own.

She sent out CVs to over ten places but was repeatedly rejected, primarily due to lack of practical experience.

“I feel some employers set the bar too high for interns, and I’m extremely frustrated, not knowing what to do,” Tram Anh said.

Creating an advantage early

Nguyen Huu Chien, a human resources specialist at apparel retailer Icon and Denim JSC, explained that candidates with prior experience help reduce the costs, time, and effort required for training. 

As a result, some large companies require internships for certain positions to have previous experience.

Tran Vu Thanh, chief strategy officer and co-founder at Better You – a company specializing in HR solutions, training programs, coaching, and soft skills development, cited a survey from the Hanoi University of Industry showing that 94 percent of students are already working part-time.

Vo Ngoc Nhon, deputy director of enrollment at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, emphasized that proactive students, especially those who earn additional certificates and skills, can make a strong impression on employers.

“Comparing fresh graduates, those who demonstrate skills through certificates or specialized courses will stand out,” Nhon noted.

He also encouraged students to set career goals early and research potential employers to prepare for internship opportunities. 

Contacting companies directly via email can build connections and create positive first impressions.

“Being clear about career goals on your CV will help build trust and make you more convincing to employers,” Nhon added.

Support from universities

Tran Nam, head of student affairs at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, said the school helps students find internships by introducing them to long-term partner organizations. 

Students can also find placements independently and submit information for faculty approval.

At the university, the Startup Support and Job Placement Center plays a key role in connecting students with suitable internships. 

Faculty members also assist directly, and students facing difficulties are encouraged to reach out for support.

Strengthening partnerships with businesses

Cu Xuan Tien, head of the student affairs and enrollment office at the University of Economics and Law, Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, highlighted the need for closer collaboration between universities and businesses to provide students with relevant internship opportunities.

“Universities must connect more closely with successful alumni, apply technology to support internships, and strengthen ties with businesses to enhance students’ career prospects,” Tien said.

In 2024, the university launched a business-integrated training program in financial technology and information management, offering students a combination of academic learning and practical work experience.

“We must listen to feedback from students and employers through surveys to improve internship programs,” Tien concluded.

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