Why I left Vietnam for $3,000 salary abroad

When I lived in Vietnam, despite graduating from a prestigious university and working in the medical field, I realized early on that hard work and qualifications do not always lead to financial security or respect.

I came from a humble background without many advantages. Though hardworking and academically capable, I was quiet, gentle, and did not have the connections or assertiveness to advance quickly. My income covered only basic living expenses. After years of working, I still lived in a rented room and rode an old motorbike. At work, I constantly worried about pleasing my bosses, nurses, and patients to avoid conflicts.

In my family, I was seen as just another wage earner without much voice or respect, partly due to societal norms limiting women's roles. Property inheritance favored male family members, leaving me with little chance of financial stability. Because of my modest income, I often shopped at traditional markets, wore second-hand clothes, and my children attended public schools without the opportunity for extracurricular activities.

My salary was barely enough to cover daily expenses, leaving no room for savings or investment. I never dared to take a substantial loan to buy a house, fearing job instability would leave me unable to repay.

Frustrated with these limitations and unsure about my future, I considered the idea of working abroad.

A street corner in Paris, France. Photo by Unsplash/Zhu Yunxiao

I moved to Europe as a student and eventually settled permanently. In my new country, I found a job in my professional field earning a net monthly salary of over €3,000 (US$3,360). Combined with my husband's earnings, our family income ranged from €6,000 to €8,000 per month. This allowed us to rent a comfortable home and save around €2,000 to €3,000 monthly. Within a few years, we were able to buy a house by borrowing 90% from a bank at reasonable interest rates.

Like most people here, I drive a second-hand car, shop in supermarkets, and my children attend public schools. Our family also enjoys international vacations a few times a year. Changing jobs no longer feels daunting because increased experience makes finding employment easier; I'm not concerned about being unemployed in middle age.

I have friends here who hold ordinary jobs but still manage to buy homes and cars. The general standard of living ensures I don't worry about my children's academic performance or higher education prospects. I encourage them to pursue what they enjoy and excel in their strengths.

I understand that those who move to America or other English-speaking countries might face greater competition and higher healthcare costs. Life in those places can sometimes feel tougher. But currently, I’m very comfortable with my life here.

Of course, integrating into a foreign society poses challenges, even for someone proficient in both English and the local language. Fully immersing myself in local culture remains difficult, but this isn't a major concern. I still have good friends and supportive colleagues, which provides enough social connection.

If you're thinking of trying your luck abroad like me, be mentally prepared for initial challenges. With determination and knowledge, opportunities are always there, waiting to be grasped.