Once insecure about himself, the male student became the runner-up in the entrance exam at the Faculty of Humanities.

At the graduation ceremony of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Vietnam National University, Hanoi), Dao Xuan Viet (born in 2004) was named the valedictorian of the Management Science program and received a bachelor's degree with distinction.

Amidst the congratulatory applause, Viet shared that what moved him most wasn't the title or the certificates, but the moment he was able to share the joyful news of his achievement with his parents. The first thing the young man thought of was bringing this result home to dedicate it to those who have silently supported him on his journey of striving for success.

"First and foremost, I dedicate this gift to my parents. Thank you for always being my strong support system, allowing me to freely pursue my passion. Today, I have achieved it," the male student said.

Behind that moment lies a four-year journey of constant transformation for a young man who was once insecure about his appearance, voice, and abilities. Leaving his hometown of Bac Ninh (formerly Bac Giang) to attend university in Hanoi in 2022, Viet carried many anxieties about living away from home, financial conditions, and concerns about whether he would be able to keep up with the university environment.

But it was the academic environment at the Faculty of Humanities that helped the male student gradually change, become more dynamic, and live life to the fullest with his passion. Viet learned to proactively explore instead of just studying for exams, boldly step out of his comfort zone, dare to take on new tasks, and persistently pursue his goals.

From his first year, Viet chose to participate in scientific research to hone his academic thinking. Throughout his studies, he received academic achievement scholarships for many consecutive semesters, won third prize in student scientific research competitions at both the faculty and university levels for two consecutive years, and also won third prize in the university-level Reading Culture Ambassador competition, and an Encouragement Award in the Political Essay Competition on Protecting the Ideological Foundation of the Party at Hanoi National University.

These efforts were recognized with the title of "Outstanding Student" at the Hanoi National University and university level in 2025, along with the position of second-highest ranking graduate in Management Science upon graduation.

Not only excelling academically, Xuan Viet is also a familiar face in student skills and movements. Once hesitant to speak in front of crowds, the young man chose to conquer his fear by taking up the microphone. From small programs within his faculty and clubs, Viet gradually matured to become the head of PEM – the Presentation and MC Club. Simultaneously, he has demonstrated his presentation, leadership, and inspirational abilities in various MC competitions, achieving notable accomplishments such as: Champion of The Promised Land competition, runner-up in MC Inspiring Person, third place in I Am Confident 2024, and Top 6 in Mic Gold 2024.

Based on his accumulated experience, Viet has consistently been invited to serve as an MC at numerous programs organized by Hanoi National University, the Hanoi Youth Union, and various businesses, educational organizations, and youth events. In addition, the student also participates as a speaker, mentor, and expert judge in skills training programs, scientific research, and capacity building for students.

Alongside his studies and professional activities, Viet actively participates in Youth Union and Student Association activities. For many years, Viet has consistently received the title of Outstanding Young Person, a certificate of merit for his significant contributions as a class officer, and a certificate of merit for outstanding performance as a Party member in 2024 from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities. According to the runner-up, the most important thing to balance studies with dozens of other activities is to clearly define goals. "I always put my studies first. Extracurricular activities only truly have meaning when they help me grow, hone my skills, and support my long-term career path," the student shared.

Looking back on his four years of university, what makes Viet proud isn't his impressive list of achievements with dozens of awards, titles, or honors, but rather his personal growth after stepping out of his comfort zone each time.

It was also a journey forged with the support of family, the dedication of lecturers from the Faculty of Management Science, friends, clubs, and the enriching environment of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities. “Today’s achievement is a beautiful milestone, but the resilience, maturity, and companionship I’ve gained over the past four years are my greatest assets,” Xuân Việt said.