At Pathfinder, we’ve guided hundreds of students, and we’ve seen time and again:
“Choosing the right major from the beginning can save you a lot of time, money, and effort later on.” 

So how can you make the right decision when you’re still in Vietnam and don’t fully know what life abroad is like? Here are some essential tips you shouldn’t miss:

1. Know Yourself – Your Strengths & Interests Matter

The best-fit major is one you enjoy and can do well in. 

Ask yourself:
• What do I truly enjoy doing?
• What subjects am I naturally good at?
• Do I prefer working with people, numbers, computers, or ideas? 

You can also take career personality tests like MBTI or the Holland Code to better understand yourself. 

Don’t choose a major just because others are doing it. What works for them may not be right for you.

2. Research Job Market Trends in Your Destination Country

If you plan to work or settle after graduation, it’s smart to look into:
• Which industries are currently short-staffed?
• Which fields offer advantages in terms of visas or job opportunities? 

For example:
• Australia: Nursing, teaching, engineering are on the priority migration list.
• Canada: IT, healthcare, and construction are in demand.
• USA: STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) are always in need. 

Check official government sites or ask a Pathfinder mentor for country-specific advice. 

3. Ask Yourself: “Why am I studying this?”

What kind of job do you want after graduation?
• Do you want to stay abroad or return to Vietnam?
• What income level are you aiming for? 

Don’t just chase “hot” majors. Choose a field that aligns with your long-term life goals.

4. Consider Costs and Scholarship Opportunities

Tuition varies widely by major. For example: 
• Medicine, Pharmacy, and Architecture tend to be more expensive and time-consuming. 
• Business, IT, and Education often offer more scholarships for international students.

Find a balance between your financial capacity and your future goals.

5. Talk to a Mentor – Real Advice from Real Experience

You don’t have to guess your way through this. 

Pathfinder mentors — who have studied and lived abroad — are ready to share real-world insights on:
• The majors you’re considering
• The reality of studying and working in those fields
• What to prepare before making your decision 

“All you need is a dream. Pathfinder will help you map out the path to make it happen.”

IN CONCLUSION 

Choosing a major isn’t difficult — if you do it the right way. 
Start by understanding yourself, exploring the world, and learning from those who’ve gone before you. Take your time — this decision is worth thinking through.

Need help finding the right major for you? 
Book a free 1-on-1 session with a Pathfinder mentor today — personalized based on your profile. 
[ Book a Session ] — or chat with us now!

In this article, Pathfinder will walk you through each step to successfully obtain your student visa, along with real-world tips from our experienced mentors.

Step 1: Receive Your Offer Letter

Before applying for a visa, you need to: 

• Apply to your chosen school (via Pathfinder or independently) 

• Receive an Offer Letter or an I-20 (for U.S. schools) 

Pathfinder Tip: The earlier you apply, the smoother the visa process will be. We recommend starting the application at least 4–6 months before your intended start date.

Step 2: Prepare Your Visa Application Documents

Visa requirements vary by country, but here are the most commonly required documents:

Financial proof is one of the most common reasons for visa delays or denials. Pathfinder will guide you to prepare documents that meet your destination country’s standards.

Step 3: Submit Your Application & Schedule Your Interview

Depending on the country, the process may include: 

• Online submission (Australia, Canada, UK) 

• In-person submission + interview (USA) 

Pathfinder will assist you in creating an online profile, submitting your application, paying the fees, and scheduling your appointment.

Step 4: Visa Interview (mainly for the U.S.)

Some key interview tips: 

• Be concise, honest, and to the point 

• Avoid over-explaining or being vague 

• Maintain eye contact and show confidence 

• Be clear about your study plan, school choice, and post-graduation goals 

Pathfinder offers 1-on-1 mock interview sessions with mentors who have gone through the real interview process, helping you feel confident and well-prepared.

Step 5: Receive Your Visa & Get Ready to Fly

Visa processing times can range from 5 days to 6 weeks, depending on your destination and season. 

After receiving your visa: 

• Double-check all printed information for accuracy 

• Begin packing, finalize housing, and book your flight 

• Join Pathfinder’s pre-departure orientation to ease the transition

Important Visa Tips

• Apply at least 1–2 months before your school’s start date 

• Never provide false information—this can result in visa denial or future bans 

• If your visa is rejected, review the reasons carefully and create a revised strategy with support 

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

At Pathfinder, we do more than help you choose your school or program—we walk with you through every step of the visa process, from application to financial documentation and mock interviews. All in one place. 

Don’t let the visa process discourage you. With the right preparation and the right partner, the journey will be smoother than you expect. 

Need personalized visa support? 
Book a free consultation with a Pathfinder mentor today: [ Book a Consultation ]

But what exactly are CPT and OPT? How do you apply? And how many hours are you legally allowed to work as an international student? 

Let Pathfinder explain everything clearly and thoroughly.

1. What is CPT – Curricular Practical Training?

CPT is a type of internship or job directly related to your major, available to international students on an F-1 visa.

Eligibility:

• You must have completed at least one full academic year in the U.S. (except English language programs) 

• The job/internship must be directly related to your major 

• You must get authorization from your school and receive an update on your I-20

Duration:

• Part-time: ≤ 20 hours/week (during school term) 

• Full-time: > 20 hours/week (during school breaks) 

Important: If you use more than 12 months of full-time CPT, you will no longer be eligible for OPT after graduation. Choose wisely! 

2. What is OPT – Optional Practical Training?

OPT is a program that allows you to work legally after graduation (or during your studies, though this is less common), while staying on your F-1 visa.

Eligibility: 

• Completion of at least one academic year of full-time study 

• Your major must be OPT-eligible 

• You must submit Form I-765 and get approval from USCIS 

Duration: 

• 12 months for all F-1 students 

• STEM majors (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) may get a 24-month extension (total of 36 months) 

Many students use OPT as a stepping stone to get hired and transition to an H1B work visa or even a Green Card.

3. How Many Hours Can You Work as an International Student?

4. Popular Jobs for International Students:

• Lab, library, or IT assistant (on-campus) 

• Internships through CPT/OPT 

• Freelancing for overseas companies (if allowed under your visa) 

• Campus jobs: event staff, tutoring, etc. 

5. How Pathfinder Can Help You:

• Advise you on choosing majors that align with CPT/OPT opportunities 

• Help you complete all CPT/OPT paperwork 

• Connect you with mentors who’ve successfully used CPT/OPT 

• Keep you up to date with immigration law changes

6. Final Thoughts

CPT and OPT open doors to an international career—starting while you’re still a student. 

But immigration laws are strict and frequently change. Do not risk your future by guessing or going it alone. 

Let Pathfinder support you—from your first steps in Vietnam to landing your first job in the U.S.

Want 1-on-1 advice about CPT, OPT, or working while studying? 
Book a free consultation with a Pathfinder mentor today! 

From greetings, dining habits, to how people think and work — everything can feel overwhelming if you’re not mentally prepared. 

So, how do you adapt to a new culture faster and with more joy? Below are real tips from successful international students and Pathfinder mentors.

1. Don’t be afraid of culture shock — it’s completely normal

You may experience feelings such as: 

• Homesickness or loneliness 

• Struggling to understand locals 

• Feeling overwhelmed by the different lifestyle 

• Exhaustion from everything being “new and unfamiliar”

Remember: “Culture shock isn’t scary. Not realizing you’re going through it is.” 
Pathfinder mentors are always here to listen, support, and guide you through emotional ups and downs.

2. Communication is your golden key

• Take the initiative to say hello and chat with classmates, neighbors, or store clerks. 

• Even if your English isn’t perfect, don’t worry! Most locals will be happy to help if you’re polite and genuine. 

• Learn body language — smiling, nodding, and positive eye contact go a long way. 

Pathfinder also offers communication skills workshops — so you can practice before you fly ! 

3. Embrace local food and daily habits

• Try new dishes, and learn how the locals eat. 

• Observe their schedule, lifestyle, and how they approach work and study. 

• Don’t isolate yourself in the Vietnamese community only — go out and explore! 

Many students stay in their “comfort zone” for too long, and end up graduating still feeling like outsiders.

4. Join clubs, communities, and local events

• Sign up for student clubs and activities on campus 

• Volunteer at local events 

• Connect with international student groups or Vietnamese student associations 

“The more you join, the faster you adapt — and the more fun you’ll have.”

5. Having a guide makes everything easier

Studying abroad isn’t just about academics.
It’s a journey to becoming a global version of yourself. 

Approach it with curiosity, openness, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
Pathfinder is here — to make sure you never feel alone in your new country.

Want help settling in abroad? 
Book a free 1-on-1 session with a Pathfinder mentor today!