About Pathfinder
We understand the struggles, confusion, and pressures of "going global."
About Pathfinder
Pathfinder was founded by individuals who have personally experienced the journey of studying abroad—and who wanted to make that journey easier for future generations. We understand the confusion, isolation, and challenges of stepping into a new world. That’s why Pathfinder exists: so you never have to go it alone.
PATHFINDER FOUNDING STORY
Hannah Pham
Pathfinder Founding Advisor
Founder Hannah – From a Small Alley in Hanoi to the American Dream
Hannah was born and raised in a working-class neighborhood in Hanoi, Vietnam. In her family, no one had ever gone to college. Education was never a pressure or a priority. But deep inside, she always felt a burning desire for a different life. Like a little bird longing to fly far and high, she looked beyond her world, even though she had no idea where to begin—because in her circle, there was no one who could guide her.
One day, she stumbled upon a free English club online. Excited, she showed up—only to realize she couldn’t understand a word. But instead of discouraging her, that moment lit a fire in her heart. She started cycling across the city to attend every English club she could find, visiting tourist areas to speak with foreigners, and enrolling in two English courses with her family’s limited means. She started with almost no speaking or listening ability, but slowly opened a window to a new world.
She still had no clear path for her future, but meeting other students who dreamed of studying abroad inspired her. She began to explore the idea of studying overseas, even though no one in her family had ever dared to dream of such a thing—financially, it seemed impossible. But she didn’t give up. She visited every education consultancy in Hanoi, collecting information and asking questions, and slowly, a path began to emerge.
Then one day, holding the U.S. visa in her hands, she looked at her mother and said, “Mom, I’m going to America at the end of this year.” Her mother, and everyone else, was speechless.
With only two suitcases and a heart full of dreams, Hannah landed in the U.S. Through relentless effort, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Accounting, graduating in the top 10 of her school. She went on to teach accounting at one of the largest community colleges in her state for three years and worked for eight years as a manager at one of the Big Four global accounting firms. She is also an experienced real estate investor and advisor.
Looking back, Hannah knows: having a dream is yours—but no one should have to walk that path alone.
That’s why she co-founded Pathfinder—to be the guide and companion she once wished she had. With firsthand experience both in Vietnam and in the U.S., Hannah created Pathfinder to walk with students from the very first step of exploring their options in Vietnam to helping them adapt and thrive in a new country.
VISION, MISSION & CORE VALUES
Our Vision
To become the most trusted companion for Vietnamese students on their journey to study, live, and thrive in the United States and around the world.
Our Mission
Pathfinder empowers students in Vietnam to pursue international education with clarity, confidence, and compassionate guidance—starting from their first questions until they fully integrate into their new life abroad.
Our Philosophy
We believe every student has the potential to achieve great things beyond borders. But for many, the path to studying abroad is filled with overwhelming questions, hidden challenges, and a sense of uncertainty. Pathfinder exists to turn that uncertainty into direction—with real experience, tailored advice, and heartfelt support.
4 CORE VALUES
Since our inception, we have been guided by these core values:
Trust
We earn and protect the trust of every student and family through honesty, transparency, and integrity in everything we do
Kindness
We lead with empathy and care—because we know that behind every dream is a story, and behind every question is a hope.
Appreciation
We honor each individual’s background, journey, and effort. We value diversity, resilience, and the courage it takes to step into the unknown.
Belief
We believe in the potential of every student, even when they haven’t fully seen it themselves. We don’t just guide—we cheer you on.
PATHFINDER ADVISORY TEAM
Hannah Pham
U.S. Alumna – Former University Lecturer – Multisector Entrepreneur
Hannah Pham is a founding advisor of Pathfinder, bringing with her not only firsthand experience as an international student in the U.S., but also years of professional expertise living and working in one of the world’s largest multinational financial corporations.
She previously served as a university lecturer in accounting, equipping her with deep insight into the U.S. education system and the academic culture that international students must adapt to.
Corey Webb
Transformational Leadership & Personal Growth Instructor at Pathfinder
With over 30 years of leadership, coaching, and community-building experience, Corey Webb is one of Pathfinder’s core instructors for our Transformational Courses, which focus on personal development, leadership, and helping students unlock their full potential.
