From Nursing Graduate to Surgeon: The Dream That Took Flight of a Young Man from Nghe An

Once forced to defer his studies due to financial hardship, Pham Van Uoc (born 1994, from Ha Tinh) — a former member of the first cohort at Phan Chau Trinh University — has now become a doctor working at the university’s hospital. He chose to stay not only to pursue his profession, but also to support and inspire the next generation by sharing his own journey in chasing the white coat dream.

A Dream That Was Kept Alive

Graduating with a Nursing degree from a university in Da Nang in 2018, Pham Van Uoc worked for a few months before deciding to change paths and pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. During his search for the right school, he was impressed by the leadership team at Phan Chau Trinh University, including Dr. Nguyen Huu Tung, Prof. Dr. Bui Duy Tam, and Dr. Pham Hung Van.

In 2018, he became a student of the university’s inaugural class. At that time, the facilities were still modest. “Many people were skeptical, but I believed in the vision and sincerity of the university’s founders, so I enrolled,” Uoc recalled.

As his first academic year came to a close, Uoc quietly packed up his books and paused his studies due to financial difficulties. He had already found a job and was preparing to work. When Dr. Nguyen Huu Tung, Chairman of the Board of Phan Chau Trinh University, noticed his absence, he reached out. Upon learning of Uoc’s situation, Dr. Tung personally sponsored his tuition, allowing him to return to school.

Pham Van Uoc during his time as a student at Phan Chau Trinh University

Thanks to his background in nursing, Uoc quickly caught up with the coursework. He was particularly drawn to the clinical lessons taught by Prof. Dr. Bui Duy Tam. “The professor’s teaching was highly practical and grounded in real cases. It made me feel even more certain that I had made the right decision,” Uoc shared.

Recognizing Uoc’s passion for surgery, Prof. Tam arranged for him to train at Tam Tri Da Nang General Hospital. From his second year, Uoc began assisting in surgeries. Throughout his studies, he spent every holiday and New Year at the hospital, volunteering to observe and learn from surgical procedures.

When assisting in surgeries, he often requested to be in charge of preparing instruments. He memorized the tools needed for each procedure and had everything ready in advance. Gradually, he moved up to become the primary surgical assistant, helping the lead surgeon with both technical support and surgical field preparation. “Before each clinical rotation, I’d read about the cases in advance, observe the procedures, review relevant literature, and ask questions if anything was unclear. Mastery only comes through repeated practice,” Uoc reflected.

"No Do Harm" – Do No Harm to Patients

One of Uoc’s most unforgettable memories involves helping doctors resuscitate patients who had gone into cardiac arrest. “In some cases, the patient’s heart began beating again after just a few minutes. The joy in those moments is indescribable. But there were also cases we couldn’t save. When the doctor had to inform the family, and I saw them break down in tears, I felt deeply saddened and shared in their grief. Those nights, I’d lie awake wondering why that patient couldn’t be saved,” he recalled.

During his internships, Uoc made an effort to communicate gently with patients, helping ease their anxiety and enabling him to learn about their medical history and symptoms. He would then discuss his own assessments and treatment suggestions with his instructors to receive feedback and clarification.

With his foundation in nursing, Uoc understood the importance of patient care. Now, as a treating physician, he values even more the need for effective communication and thorough history-taking, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. “Professional skill is important, but empathy is equally indispensable for any doctor,” he said.

One of his mentors once told him: “No do harm” — never harm a patient. That principle has become the cornerstone of his medical practice. “A doctor’s greatest reward is the joy of seeing patients recover. But above all, we must diagnose and treat with utmost care and integrity,” Uoc emphasized.

Pham Van Uoc (right) currently works at Phan Chau Trinh University Hospital

After graduation, Uoc received several job offers, but he chose to stay at Phan Chau Trinh University Hospital. “I want to work in a well-structured, academically strong environment where I can continue learning, and at the same time, share my experiences with students who are following in my footsteps,” he said.

This coming August, Uoc will complete his professional medical licensing. Looking ahead, he plans to pursue postgraduate education and further specialize in the field of surgery.

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