Chan is living and working in Seattle. Photo: Chan Le

Le Van Hong Chan (1991) is currently a Tech Lead at Snap - a large technology company in the US, where many technology products are loved by young people, notably Snapchat and Bitmoji.

“From a young age to an adult, I really like things related to technology. I love seeing the benefits of technology that can change people's lives products. This passion has followed me since middle school and high school until now,” Chan said.

He said for young people entering this field, go to Silicon Valley "technology center" at least once, because "this place will give you excellent instructors, good facilities, valuable career opportunities and the best conditions to develop a passion for technology".

Working in the US, Chan feels that this is a suitable environment for him, because there is a balance between work and life: “In my opinion, for those who want to do technology, the US is a good place and worth the experience. Come to Silicon Valley once to learn the professional working style, experience the company culture."

Chan is fortunate enough to work with one of the biggest names in tech; Google.

“Google is a big company, I am quite impressed with Google. I just feel that Google is a bit 'slow.' For large companies, everything needs a detailed plan.” For the engineer, the working environment at Google is professional but a bit restrictive.

At Snap, Chan said: “The culture here is the same as the Snap product itself - private and secure. If the working environment at Facebook and Google is relaxed and open, at Snap, the environment is more disciplined and everything is more controlled."

Real experience is important

Chan considers himself lucky to have good opportunities. “I feel lucky to have my first internship at Microsoft, then I can try other positions at big corporations.”

Photo: Chan Le

Before coming to the US, Chan also had an internship at Infosys (India), and many other companies in Korea.

As an intern, Chan learned valuable lessons for himself. He is always interested in Steve Jobs' saying: “You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards”.

For Chan, the score is not so important as the actual experience. “There are things you shouldn't be too focused on, like GPA. I have seen people with only 2.0 GPA but still get a good job, thanks to the experience from the internship," Chan said.

Therefore, the Vietnamese engineer at Snap said: “Young people should practice a lot while in university. The more they practice at big companies, the more opportunities they have to work at Big Tech. However, to get an internship at a big company, you have to go on a slow journey, from a small company."

Chan with his family. Photo: Chan Le

According to Chan, the internship experience has given him many relationships. Until now, they still keep in touch and help each other in life.

“Always ask for what you want” is also one of the things that Chan wants to tell young people.

“Don't be afraid to ask, just ask what you don't know, ask what you want, not only in work but also in life, even the plans you want to make. I see that many of you are afraid to ask, maybe because of the fear of 'rejection.' For me, it's not a big deal."

“Ask is the smart way to find a solution to the things you want,” said Chan.

Chan said Vietnam has a market advantage and strong human resources for technology development. Blockchain is a good example, as Vietnam has become a "bright spot" on the world blockchain map.

“Vietnam is an Asian country with a strong human resource in informatics. It is an industry that does not need much investment to develop," said Chan. "With these strengths, Vietnam can completely develop strong technology in the coming years."

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