2.1
2.1
2.1
FACULTY OF ENGLISH
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DISCUSSION
Business English 2.1
Ha Noi, 2024
MEMBER LIST
Student’s
STT Member’s name Duty
code
1
EVALUATION
53 Tran Long Vu
2
Thuongmai University
Faculty of English
MEETING MINUTES – No 1
Leader,
Vu
Tran Long Vu
3
Thuongmai University
Faculty of English
MEETING MINUTES – No 2
Leader,
Vu
Tran Long Vu
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MEMBER LIST..............................................................................................................................1
EVALUATION...............................................................................................................................2
I. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................6
II. BODY.........................................................................................................................................7
2.2.4. Scholarships.................................................................................................................17
2.2.5. Subsidies......................................................................................................................20
III. CONCLUSION......................................................................................................................23
MINIGAMES................................................................................................................................24
REFERENCES.............................................................................................................................27
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I. INTRODUCTION
From traditional options like scholarships and student loans to alternative approaches
such as work-study programs and personal savings, each method comes with its own
advantages and challenges. This topic explores the diverse ways individuals can fund their
education, offering insights into how to effectively leverage these methods to ensure
access to learning opportunities without overwhelming financial stress. Whether you are
planning for higher education or lifelong learning, understanding how to finance your
education is a crucial step toward achieving your academic and career goals.
This discussion will delve deeper into the methods of financing education, including the
benefits, limitations, and feasibility of each option. From seeking scholarships and student
loans to engaging in part-time work or relying on personal savings, each method is
tailored to specific circumstances and needs. Through detailed analysis, this article aims
to provide valuable information to help you assess and choose the most suitable financing
method for your educational goals and financial situation.
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II. BODY
Financing one’s education refers to the various methods and strategies used to cover the
costs associated with pursuing a formal education, such as tuition, fees, books, and living
expenses. This financing can come from multiple sources.
Student loans: Student loans are designed specifically to assist learners in managing
educational expenditures such as academic fees, course materials, and daily necessities.
These loans, which may be provided by the government or private lenders, often come
with more favorable interest rates than general-purpose loans.
* Federal Student Loans: These are funded by the government and usually have fixed
interest rates and flexible repayment options. Examples include Direct Subsidized Loans,
Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and PLUS Loans.
* Private Student Loans: Offered by banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions,
these loans often come with variable interest rates and can have different terms and
repayment options. Approval usually depends on the borrower’s creditworthiness.
Repayment of student loans typically starts after graduation or when the student drops
below a half-time enrollment status, although some loans may offer deferment options
that allow borrowers to postpone payments. Student loans are a significant financial
commitment, and understanding their terms and implications is crucial for students and
their families.
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Personal loans: Personal loans for education are unsecured loans that can be used to
cover a variety of academic-related expenses, such as university charges, educational
supplies, or the costs of accommodation and meals. Unlike student loans, these loans are
more flexible and may also be used for other personal needs.
Part-time Jobs: Part-time jobs allow students to balance work and study by earning
income to manage their study-related expenses, such as covering school charges,
purchasing required learning resources, and supporting day-to-day living. These roles
often require fewer working hours, making them ideal for students pursuing their
education.
Government Grants: Government grants for financing education are financial aid
awards that provide funding to students to cover educational expenses without the
obligation to repay the funds. These grants are typically awarded based on financial need,
academic performance, or specific eligibility criteria, such as enrollment in particular
fields of study or attending designated institutions.
Scholarships: Scholarships are financial awards that provide support for students to
pursue their studies by school, university, organization, helping to offset the cost of
enrollment, educational tools, and everyday living requirements. Unlike loans,
scholarships do not need to be repaid, making them a highly sought-after form of aid.
Types of Scholarships:
* Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic achievement or exceptional
skills and talents.
* Need-Based Scholarships: Given to students who demonstrate financial need, often
requiring a detailed financial disclosure.
* Special Interest Scholarships: Offered by organizations or institutions to encourage
enrollment in specific fields or among particular populations (like underrepresented
communities or first-generation college students).
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Subsidies: Subsidies for financing education are financial assistance programs provided
by governments or organizations to help reduce the cost of educational expenses for
students. These subsidies can take various forms, such as direct payments, grants, or tax
benefits, and are designed to make education more affordable and accessible.
Types of Subsidies:
* Direct Subsidies: These may include grants specifically aimed at reducing tuition fees
for students attending particular institutions or programs.
* Tax Subsidies: Tax credits or deductions that individuals can claim to lower their tax
burden related to educational expenses.
* Institutional Subsidies: Funding given directly to educational institutions, which may in
turn lower tuition rates for students.
Student loans are specifically tailored to assist students in funding their education. These
loans often cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other education-related costs.
Student Loans
Advantages
Access to Higher Education: Education is a powerful tool for upward mobility, but it is
often expensive. Student loans make it possible for individuals from all income levels to
pursue higher education. For instance, Sarah, a high school graduate from a low-income
family, aspired to become a doctor. Without a student loan, she could not afford medical
school. With the loan, she managed to complete her degree and now works as a physician,
earning enough to repay her debt while improving her family’s living standards.
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Lower Interest Rates and Flexible Repayment Plans: Student loans usually have lower
interest rates compared to other types of loans. Additionally, repayment is often deferred
until after graduation, allowing students time to establish their careers before financial
obligations begin. For example, John graduated from engineering school with a $50,000
student loan. Thanks to a grace period, he was able to secure a job before starting
repayments, making the financial burden more manageable.
Disadvantages
Long-Term Debt: Student loans can lead to years of debt repayment. Many graduates
face the daunting reality of paying off loans well into their 30s or 40s. For example,
Emma, an art history graduate, borrowed $40,000 to attend university. Despite her degree,
she struggled to find a well-paying job in her field and spent 15 years repaying her loan,
which delayed her ability to buy a home or save for retirement.
Personal Loans
Personal loans are unsecured loans that individuals can use for various purposes, such as
consolidating debt, funding a wedding, or covering medical expenses.
Advantages
Versatility: Unlike student loans, personal loans are not restricted to specific uses. They
offer flexibility for borrowers to address diverse needs. For instance, Michael, a small
business owner, took out a personal loan to purchase equipment for his bakery. This
investment allowed him to expand his business and increase his revenue.
Quick Access to Funds: Personal loans are typically processed faster than other loan
types, making them ideal for urgent financial situations. For example, Anna needed
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immediate funds to pay for an unexpected surgery. She applied for a personal loan and
received the money within days, allowing her to cover the medical bills without delay.
Disadvantages
Higher Interest Rates: Compared to student loans, personal loans often come with
higher interest rates. This means borrowers may end up repaying much more than the
amount they initially borrowed. For example, Jason borrowed $10,000 for home
renovations but ended up paying $13,000 due to high interest rates.
Risk of Over-Borrowing: Personal loans are relatively easy to obtain, which can tempt
individuals to borrow more than they can realistically repay. This can lead to financial
stress or even default. Lisa, for instance, took out multiple personal loans to fund her
vacations. Over time, the accumulated debt became unmanageable, severely affecting her
credit score.
Both types of loans, when used responsibly, can be life-changing. Student loans have
helped millions of students achieve their dreams. A well-known example is Barack
Obama, who used student loans to attend Harvard Law School. He later repaid the loans
after becoming a successful lawyer and eventually the President of the United States.
Similarly, personal loans have enabled individuals to seize opportunities. Maria, a single
mother, used a personal loan to start a small catering business. The business thrived,
allowing her to repay the loan and achieve financial independence while supporting her
family.
Advantages:
Flexibility: Part-time jobs offer more flexible working hours compared to full-time
positions, allowing individuals to better manage other activities such as education, family
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care, or personal projects. For example, a university student can take a part-time job in the
evenings or weekends without interfering with class schedules.
Development of time management skills: Another key benefit of having a part-time job
is the development of time management skills. In college, students typically have more
freedom and independence compared to high school. They have fewer hours of class and
more "free" time during the day. Hence, a part-time job for students is a good chance for
developing a sense of time management in students. Students will learn how to make the
priorities in not just the study, but also the work.
Work experience: Part-time positions provide valuable work experience that can
enhance a resume, gain experience and make candidates more attractive to future
employers. Part-time jobs play a pivotal role in developing work experience, equipping
individuals with essential skills and knowledge that are beneficial for future careers.
Having a part-time job relevant to your field of study is also an excellent way to combine
your academic knowledge with practical experience.
Disadvantages:
Loss of focus on education: Working part-time can take students' focus away from their
education. This can lead to students not being properly engaged with the educational
process, and those with part-time jobs may struggle to combine work and study. This is
mainly because working can be a distraction from academic work.
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Increased stress and fatigue: The pressure of balancing work, school, and
extracurricular activities can cause students to experience increased stress. Having a part-
time job can also lead to fatigue as students may feel like they have less free time for rest
and relaxation. This is particularly true on top of the heavy workload that students
experience from their daily studies.
Limited benefits: Many part-time jobs do not offer the same benefits as full-time
positions, such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid sick leave, or paid vacation
time. This lack of benefits can make part-time work less attractive for individuals seeking
comprehensive job security and financial stability.
Limited career advancement: Part-time positions may offer fewer opportunities for
career progression or promotions. Many organizations prioritize full-time employees for
leadership roles or career development programs, which can limit advancement prospects
for part-time workers.
At Thuong Mai University, many students opt for part-time tutoring as a means to gain
work experience while also earning income. This choice not only provides financial
support but also helps them develop a range of skills that are beneficial for their future
careers.
Many students choose to tutor in subjects they excel in, such as mathematics, foreign
languages, or economics. This allows them to reinforce their own knowledge while
helping others.
This job not only enhances their academic skills but also develops critical soft skills and
professional connections. Therefore, tutoring serves as a valuable stepping stone for
students preparing to enter the workforce after graduation.
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* Supporting Scientific Research: Grants also support students in participating in
scientific research projects, particularly in innovative fields. This helps advance research
that contributes to technological development and innovation, pushing the boundaries of
knowledge.
Disadvantages
Limited Funding: The demand for government grants often surpasses the available
budget, leaving many qualified students without sufficient support. This creates a
situation where only a portion of eligible students benefit from the grants, despite their
need, leading to frustration and inequality in access to higher education.
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Insufficient Coverage: Grants may only cover tuition fees, leaving students to struggle
with other expenses such as living costs, textbooks, and materials. As a result, students
still face financial challenges that can affect their academic performance and overall well-
being, even if their tuition is covered.
Established in 1972, the Pell Grant is America’s largest federal college grant program,
awarding over 5 million grants to low-income students each year. The 2009 Student Aid
and Fiscal Responsibility Act is set to further expand the number of students eligible for
Pell Grants and to increase the maximum award from $5,500 in 2010 to $6,900 by 2019.
The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent, or SMART Grant,
provides additional assistance to junior and senior Pell Grant recipients with exceptional
promise in math, science, computer science or engineering. Recipients receive $4000 per
year for each of their last two years of college.
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Federal grant funding
Federal grant programs are driven by the congressional funding that fills the coffers. As a
result, maximum grant awards and general availability change every year. Currently,
annual Pell Grant award maximums hover around $5000 per student. Some government
grants, like FSEOG are distributed on a first-come first-served rotation that continues
until funding is exhausted, so time is of the essence
2.2.4. Scholarships
Advantages:
Helping students get an education: Scholarships have always been a tool to help
students to get the required education that they would otherwise have not been able
to achieve without the scholarships.
Offering equal opportunities for all students: Scholarships can open doors to
various opportunities that might not be available otherwise. This can include
networking events, internships, and special programs that are exclusive to
scholarship recipients. These opportunities can provide valuable experiences and
connections that benefit students in their academic and professional lives.
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such as books, supplies, and sometimes even living expenses. This financial
support can make higher education accessible to students who might otherwise
struggle to afford it.
Disadvantages:
Competitive Nature: Scholarships are often highly competitive, with many
students vying for a limited number of awards, therefore even highly qualified
students may not always secure a scholarship. Students usually have to deal with
the pressure to prove their worth and to justify why they are the best to receive the
scholarships. The application process can be time-consuming and stressful,
requiring students to invest significant effort without any guarantee of success to
achieve it. This may end up opening some wounds for some students.
Limited Coverage: Not all scholarships cover the full cost of education. Some
may only provide partial funding, leaving students to find additional sources of
financial aid to cover the remaining expenses. This can still result in financial
strain and the need to take out loans or work part-time jobs to make up the
difference.
Renewal Requirements: Many scholarships are not one-time awards but require
students to maintain certain standards to continue receiving the funding. This often
includes maintaining a specific GPA, participating in certain activities, or fulfilling
other obligations. The pressure to meet these requirements can add stress and
impact a student’s overall well-being and academic performance.
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Conclusion, scholarships will help students have more motivation to study, funds to serve
their studies and living that creates many opportunities in the future for students.
However, it also contains some limits, requiring students to invest significant effort in
order to achieve it.
On the morning of October 29, 2024, the Nitori International Scholarship Fund, Japan
awarded 10 scholarships, each worth 13,000,000 VND/1 academic year to 10 students
with excellent academic and training achievements in the second semester of the 2023-
2024 academic year. Including 2 students from the Faculty of English: Dương Thị Nhung
K58N2 and Nguyễn Lương Diệu Linh K59N2. The above scholarship will be a
meaningful gift for students, not only a source of financial support but also a source of
spiritual encouragement for them to try harder in their studies and self-improvement.
These scholarships highlight the dedication of Thuong Mai University and other
educational institutions in Vietnam and around the world to ensure that every student has
the equal opportunity to succeed. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and support,
they aim for a future founded on equity, advancement, and opportunity, with education
serving as the cornerstone for both personal and societal growth.
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2.2.5. Subsidies
In conclusion, while subsidies can make education more accessible and equitable, they
also come with potential downsides such as fiscal strain and market distortions. Balancing
these pros and cons is crucial for effective education financing policies.
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Assistance of Thuong mai University during the meeting on October 1, 2024, they has
decided to provide subsidies for two students from small ethnic minority groups. The
subsidies cover 100% of the base salary, with a total amount of 28,080,000 VND, granted
to the students: Thẩm Lan Phương and Xìn Thị Thùy Dung.
In addition, the university has approved tuition fee subsidies for 87 students from ethnic
minority groups classified as coming from poor or near-poor households in 2024. These
subsidies significantly reduce the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus
better on their studies. They also serve as a source of encouragement, motivating students
to work harder and achieve greater academic success.
Beyond financial relief, these subsidies provide students with opportunities to explore
learning and skill development that might otherwise be beyond their reach. They
empower students to engage in specialized training, workshops, or internships, enhancing
their career prospects. Moreover, the subsidies foster a sense of recognition and support,
reinforcing the message that their efforts and potential are valued by the university and
society.
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The stability offered by these subsidies enables students to concentrate on personal and
professional growth without the stress of excessive part-time work to cover expenses.
This often leads to better academic performance, stronger social connections, and greater
confidence in pursuing their aspirations.
This initiative underscores the commitment of Thuong mai University and other
educational institutions in Vietnam and abroad to ensure that no student is left behind.
Together, we strive for a future built on fairness, progress and opportunity with education
serving as a cornerstone for both individual and societal development.
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III. CONCLUSION
Financing education requires a thoughtful and balanced approach that takes into account
both immediate financial needs and long-term stability. Personal savings and family
support are often the first sources of funding, offering a debt-free option that allows
students to focus on their studies without the pressure of repayment. However, these
resources may be limited and insufficient to cover the full cost of higher education,
especially with rising tuition fees. Scholarships and grants serve as a crucial supplement,
providing merit- or need-based financial aid that does not need to be repaid, thus easing
the financial burden on students and their families. For many, student loans become a
necessary part of financing their education. While they provide essential funding, they
come with significant responsibilities, including managing interest rates, repayment
terms, and the risk of long-term debt. Part-time work and internships are another valuable
option, allowing students to earn income and gain practical experience related to their
fields of study. However, these commitments require careful time management to ensure
they do not interfere with academic performance. Additionally, government and
institutional support, such as subsidized loans, tuition assistance programs, and education
tax benefits, play a vital role in making education more affordable and accessible. By
leveraging a combination of these strategies, students can pursue their educational
aspirations while maintaining financial stability, ensuring that the investment in their
future does not come at an unsustainable cost. This balanced approach is essential for
empowering students to achieve their goals without compromising their long-term
financial well-being.
Choosing the right method to finance education requires aligning funding options with
individual needs and long-term financial stability. Prioritizing scholarships and grants,
selecting manageable loans, and balancing part-time work with academics are crucial
steps. Government and institutional support can further ease financial burdens. A
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thoughtful, strategic approach ensures students achieve their goals while maintaining
financial well-being for the future.
MINIGAMES
Questions:
1. Personal Savings
Question: What is a primary advantage of using personal savings to fund your education?
a) No repayment required
b) Guaranteed interest growth
c) Unlimited funds
d) Covers all expenses automatically
2. Question: What is the biggest advantage of using personal savings to pay for
education?
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b) Student’s academic performance
5. Student Loans
Question 5: Which of these is a wise way to manage student loans?
a) Borrow as much as possible
b) Choose loans with low-interest rates
c) Skip repayments until you have a stable job
d) Ignore the repayment terms
6. Question 6: Which type of student loan offers lower interest rates and deferred
payments while you are in school?
a) Unsubsidized loans
c) Private loans
7. Part-Time Work
Question 7: What is a common challenge of working part-time while studying?
a) No income
b) It reduces your chances of getting scholarships
c) Poor time management affecting academics
d) Employers charge you fees
8. Question 8: What is the primary disadvantage of working part-time while in school?
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c) It can help pay off student loans
b) Subsidized loans are only available to students with high credit scores
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REFERENCES
https://aithor.com/essay-examples/should-students-have-part-time-jobs-essay-pros-cons
https://www.hotcoursesabroad.com/study-abroad-info/student-finances/should-students-
work-part-time-while-studying/
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/pros-cons-of-being-part-time-
student
https://drexel.edu/soe/admissions/financial-aid/difference-between-student-grants-vs-
loans/
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/government-grant.asp
https://prosancons.com/education/pros-and-cons-of-scholarships/
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