Despite investing billions of Vietnamese Dong (hundreds of thousands of US dollars) into their overseas education, an increasing number of Vietnamese graduates are choosing to return to Vietnam and accept jobs with starting salaries as low as 7 million VND (approximately $275 USD) per month. This seemingly paradoxical decision is driven by a complex interplay of factors, including a desire to be closer to family and culture, a belief in Vietnam's burgeoning economic opportunities, a realistic assessment of the domestic job market, and, for some, the pursuit of entrepreneurial ventures that might be less feasible abroad.
The Allure and Expense of Overseas Education
For many Vietnamese families, sending their children to study abroad is a significant investment, often costing billions of dong. This financial commitment is typically made with the expectation that an international degree will open doors to higher-paying jobs and greater career prospects, either abroad or upon return. Indeed, many Vietnamese graduates from prestigious foreign universities do find lucrative opportunities in developed countries, with starting salaries potentially reaching tens of thousands of USD annually.
However, the reality for some "overseas students" (du học sinh) is a different path, leading them back to Vietnam with earnings that might seem disproportionately low compared to their educational investment.
Beyond the Paycheck: Reasons for Returning Home
While the initial salary may appear modest, the decision to return and accept such positions is often a calculated one, reflecting a blend of personal aspirations and pragmatic considerations:
Family and Cultural Connection: A dominant factor for many returnees is the deep-seated desire to be close to family and reintegrate into Vietnamese culture. After years away, the warmth of family bonds, familiar traditions, and a supportive social network often outweigh purely financial incentives. As one returnee, Van, stated, despite the "culture shock" of the Vietnamese workplace and the modest salary compared to her US education, she remains "satisfied and has never regretted" her decision to return.
Belief in Vietnam's Growth Potential: Many overseas graduates are optimistic about Vietnam's rapid economic development and the opportunities it presents. They see a dynamic market with high growth potential, particularly in emerging sectors like cross-border e-commerce or niche industries. Pham Quan, for instance, chose to return to Vietnam to start his own business, believing that the country's fast-paced development and support for startups offer unique advantages that would be harder to find as an employee abroad.
Realistic Job Market Expectations: Some returnees manage their expectations, understanding that entry-level salaries in Vietnam's domestic market, even for foreign-educated individuals, may not initially match those in more developed economies. They are willing to accept lower starting wages to gain local experience and build their careers, trusting that opportunities for advancement and higher earnings will come with time and proven capability. Companies in Vietnam, they note, often prioritize practical skills and a good cultural fit over just the prestige of an overseas degree.
Desire for Impact and Contribution: For some, returning to Vietnam is driven by a strong desire to contribute to their home country's development. They see untapped potential and unique challenges that their international education and global perspective can help address.
Work-Life Balance and Cost of Living: While salaries might be lower, the cost of living in Vietnam, particularly outside of prime urban centers, can be significantly more affordable than in many Western countries. This, combined with a potentially more relaxed lifestyle and vibrant social scene, can contribute to a higher overall quality of life for some returnees.
The Long-Term Perspective
While a 7-million VND salary might seem small after an investment of billions, many returnees view it as a stepping stone. They are keen to gain practical experience in the Vietnamese working environment, adapt to local business practices, and leverage their foreign language skills and international exposure. The goal is often to climb the corporate ladder within Vietnamese companies, join multinational corporations with a local presence, or ultimately, to launch successful entrepreneurial ventures that tap into Vietnam's growing market.
This trend highlights a nuanced shift among some Vietnamese overseas graduates, where personal fulfillment, national pride, and long-term career building in a dynamic domestic market are increasingly weighing equally, if not more, than immediate high financial returns.