"A life-changing decision"

These were the first showers of summer, and although it was only the first rain of the season, we all noticed the difference compared to spring rains. Spring rains usually come in long bursts, not heavy, but often leave people feeling very damp and uncomfortable. Summer rains are different; they come suddenly and stop just as quickly, refreshing everything: grass, trees, flowers... even our souls.

Sitting alone and reminiscing, I have many memories associated with rain. But the most memorable is my first time setting foot in the University of Social Sciences and Humanities to enroll on a rainy day. However, it was on that very first day that I knew my decision to choose this university was not a mistake. At that moment, I couldn't comment on the qualifications or teaching methods of the faculty and staff, but what impressed me most was the warm welcome extended to the new generation of students, the enthusiasm of the student volunteers who guided and directed the new students who were still unfamiliar with the new school. These actions, though simple, made the new students feel the friendliness of this place.

People often say that time flows like an endless stream, sweeping everything away; it rushes by and waits for no one. It's so true. In the blink of an eye, more than a year has passed since I started at this school. From a freshman entering a new learning environment with so many unfamiliar things – new teachers, new friends, living far from home and parents, and facing countless demands and requirements – I've now become a much more mature and responsible second-year student. I remember those early days away from home, I cried many times, crying because I missed my family, my friends, my hometown, and because I was lonely. Now, I'm stronger, I no longer cry like a child, and most importantly, I no longer feel lonely because I have wonderful friends who always support and help me, even in the most difficult times. My heart now holds not only homesickness but also love for this school, for my new friends, and for the passion and aspirations I have for the field of study I have chosen.

I still remember the political science class at school and the professor's question: "Of all of you sitting here, does anyone feel they made a mistake in deciding to apply to the Faculty of Humanities?" The professor's question surprised the students; a few hands were raised timidly. He said that everyone makes mistakes in life, but the important thing is whether we know how to correct those mistakes and make them right. I still remember his words. I admit that throughout this year of studying, I've thought at least once about the path I'm taking, wondering if it's the right one for me. But those thoughts quickly faded; the time spent studying and training at school has helped me mature a great deal. I've realized that as long as I have passion and strive to pursue what I desire, success will surely come. I acknowledge that I haven't achieved anything truly outstanding yet, but that doesn't mean I'll be discouraged or give up. Instead, it motivates me to try harder and achieve better results in my studies and other activities.

The transition from high school student to university student is one of the biggest turning points in my life, and I cherish that. In a new learning environment, everything changes, from students' learning methods to lecturers' teaching methods, but the dedication and commitment of the teachers at all schools remain consistent. Studying at this school, I not only learned from textbooks but also gained a lot from practical experience. We were further trained through participation in the school's clubs: Sol – the art club, Rumbo Cheerleading Squad – the cheerleading club, Vovinam – the Vietnamese martial arts club, and especially Hoa Da – a club specifically for students with disabilities, in addition to many other clubs for students to choose from depending on their interests and abilities.

With a team of experienced teachers and dynamic, enthusiastic students dedicated to learning and training, the faculty and students of the university are determined to strive to fulfill their mission: "As a leading, prestigious, and long-standing university, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - Vietnam National University, Hanoi, has the mission of leading in training high-quality human resources, conducting creative research, and disseminating knowledge in Social Sciences and Humanities, serving the cause of national construction and development."