Hiba Faradji, a 23‑year‑old Moroccan student, was honoured with the top graduate award at Vietnam Maritime University in August 2026. Her story shows how determination can turn a chaotic start into academic excellence.

The Covid‑19 pandemic forced her to abandon a medical scholarship at the Sorbonne, leaving her in France with depression, repeated rejections from universities in Spain and South Korea, and severe financial strain. Eventually she secured a full scholarship to study maritime navigation in Vietnam.

When she landed in Hai Phong, she only knew the Vietnamese greeting “xin chao.” She struggled with poor nutrition, costly housing and demanding navigation coursework, yet she boosted her language skills by joining an English club and taking part‑time work.

After three years of intensive study, Faradji graduated as the top student in maritime navigation with a GPA of 3.65 out of 4. The university praised her resilience, quick thinking and willingness to embrace challenges.

She is now extending her visa to begin a master’s programme in Vietnam, and she said the country’s growing maritime sector offers long‑term career opportunities. Her ambition reflects a deep commitment to the field.