Courage and creativity in a fluctuation world

Graduating from PennSchool is the first journey for seniors to build their career and is also the step for Le Ngoc Dong Nhi, alumni of ADP12 to perform her career orientation that she built when studying in high school.

With excellent academic achievements and awards gained during her school years, Le Ngoc Dong Nhi completed her high school program and received offer letters from famous Vietnamese universities, including:

1. Fulbright University Vietnam
2. RMIT University Vietnam
3. Swinburne University Vietnam (Scholarship of Merits – 40%)

As one of the students in grade 12, who had been facing the change of learning methods due to the pandemic, Dong Nhi had been proactive in finding effective learning methods to achieve her goals. “When studying at PennSchool, I also had trouble transitioning to online classes, so I want to share a few tips for you. The first and the most important one is to turn on your camera. You can use filters on Snap Camera, you can put on your makeup, but you should always turn on your camera. Secondly, prepare a cup of water or juice on your table to keep yourself hydrated and to help to strengthen your immune system. Next, you can do some simple desk exercises during class and roll your eyes to the right, left, up and down for around 2 minutes after each class. Those are very easy to do but very effective to boost your energy and sharpen your mind. Lastly, remember to take notes and ask questions if you do not understand the lessons. At PennSchool, questions are always welcome, and the more you ask, the better you learn.”

Her academic achievement was maintained by her own creativity, willingness to change and finding solutions from difficulties. During her time at PennSchool, Dong Nhi was also very active in establishing her plan after graduating high school. Instead of choosing to study abroad, Nhi decided to continue her studies in Vietnam. Dong Nhi chose to study at a university in Vietnam because of her love for her homeland and belief in the quality of education here. “I chose not to study abroad and stay here in Vietnam simply because I love everything about our country, and the Vietnamese education system is getting better as well.”

In Particular, Dong Nhi had oriented her favorite major through her passion when studying in high school. “I love organic vegetables because of the tremendous benefits that they offer. However, those types of vegetables are very expensive and not everyone can afford them. For me, I have always wanted to do something related to organic vegetables, so that more and more people can eat safer and more healthy food. Thus, I came up with an idea of having an organic farm and also a business providing people with healthy and affordable vegetables. That is why I decided to first get a degree in Business Administration.”

In order to receive offer letters from prestigious universities in Vietnam, Dong Nhi actively prepared carefully for her application process. “It took me two months to finish my personal statement. I wrote 3 different drafts, and took a short break for a few days between each draft to refresh my mind. You can get someone to proofread your statement, but remember that this must be your own work, this is all about you, not somebody else. You are unique, so do not hesitate to show your true colors. Also do not forget to improve your English skills by doing IELTS or SAT practice tests regularly, listening to podcasts, watching YouTube, or reading books for at least 20 minutes before bed. Think of these activities as a way to relax, rather than to study! It will make you feel much better. Regarding the financial documents, you should ask your parents for help with gathering all the required information. This will include a lot of numbers, so please be careful before submitting the financial aid documents. Double check everything…”

“Remember to be your most authentic self, follow your heart, and listen to your inner voice.” That’s the message that Dong Nhi would like to give students in ADP12 as well as the next generation of students. After many efforts, Dong Nhi has achieved the goal to choose her suitable university and major. With the rigid girl who knows how to actively plan for the future, we wish you amazing experiences in university with the best results.