Hung's academic journey began in Vietnam and took him to NOVA, where he pursued an Associate of Science in Science. “My time at NOVA gave me a foundation to explore different interests and develop leadership skills,” Hung shared. He became actively involved in student life, including the Vietnamese Student Association and the Student Government Association, experiences that helped him grow as a student and a leader.

Scholarships played a critical role in Hung's success. He received awards that supported his studies at NOVA, enabling him to transfer to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and later pursue graduate studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology  (MIT) in nanomedicine and drug delivery. “The scholarships validated my abilities and opened doors I hadn’t imagined,” he said.

Hung currently serves as an assistant professor of engineering at the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth College, where he leads a research lab focused on developing nanomedicines for cancer drug delivery. His path from NOVA to cutting-edge research demonstrates the long-lasting impact of accessible education and early academic support.

Reflecting on his experience, Hung emphasizes the value of NOVA’s welcoming environment and the opportunities it provides for students to discover their passions. “NOVA offered a place to learn, explore, and challenge myself in ways that prepared me for the next steps,” he explained. He continues to give back by mentoring students from community colleges through research programs and networking initiatives.

Hung also shared advice for prospective donors: “Supporting NOVA students makes a real difference. Scholarships and programs help students pursue opportunities they might not otherwise have. Your contributions can change the trajectory of someone’s life.”

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