Nearly 10 days after the final night, whenever he went to class or met friends on campus, Tuan Huy would hear the familiar exclamation, "Oh, there's the Mr. Vietnam!". The overwhelming emotions of joy, happiness, and pride when Miss Luong Thuy Linh crowned him in front of hundreds of spectators is a precious memory for this first-year student in the Tourism Studies department.
In addition to the Mr. title, Tuan Huy also won the Mr. Sports award.
Sharing with a reporter from the Vietnam Student Section of Tien Phong newspaper, Tuan Huy said: “From a player who was dropped from his football club, to becoming a student at a major university, and then winning the title of Mr. University – this is a very long journey, and it's difficult to find words to fully express my feelings.”
Born in 2004 in Hai Phong, Tuan Huy left home at the age of 14 after being accepted into the PVF Youth Football Training Center. He spent 3.5 years training and playing professionally for two clubs, PVF and Hanoi. However, failing to meet the requirements, he had to leave training at the age of 18 and return to his studies to find a new path.
Tuan Huy during a football match.
With his dynamic, sociable personality, love of exploring new knowledge, and passion for working with foreigners, Huy chose Hotel Management as his major. At the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, he served as the Vice President of his class and achieved an excellent GPA of 3.72/4.0 in his first semester.
Outside of class, Huy is a member of the English for Tourism Club under the Faculty of Tourism Studies and FC USSH - the university's men's football club. He chose to participate in both academic and sports clubs simultaneously, because he wanted to pursue his passion while developing skills relevant to his studies and achieving holistic personal growth.
Huy was a member of the school's men's soccer club - FC USSH.
When the school launched the Humanities Beauty and Talent Contest, Huy, with his height of 1.75m, bright appearance, and impressive academic achievements, was encouraged by the class representatives to apply. Recognizing this as a good opportunity to spread a positive message and explore his own limits, he decided to register.
That wish was finally realized in the Talent round, with a presentation sharing his journey in the competition and his studies. To achieve the best results, Huy had to constantly write and revise his script many times, practice speaking in front of the mirror every day, and ask friends for feedback and suggestions.
“I was so happy to receive so many positive reviews from the judges and a huge round of applause from the students. Most importantly, I had overcome my own limitations and hoped to inspire the audience that day,” Huy recalled.
Huy gave a presentation in the Talent section of USSH Talent 2023.
Throughout the 5 months of the program and the 6 rounds of competition, Huy received maximum support from his family, teachers, and friends. His parents closely monitored his progress and inquired about his training, also acting as the "diamond sponsor" for his competition outfits. His girlfriend helped him stay calm and encouraged him every time he stepped onto the stage.
Although his academic advisor couldn't closely follow his student's progress throughout the competition, he sent a message before the final to offer advice, wish him good luck, and even came to watch the show in person. For Huy, everyone's support was a huge source of motivation, helping him overcome his anxiety when standing on the big stage of a beauty pageant for the first time.
At the final night, after performing well in the traditional costume and evening gown segments, Huy was one of three male students called to the Q&A round. When asked to "present a compelling reason for the judges to choose you as Mr. Vietnam," he gave a specific, honest answer that showcased his unique personality.
Huy said: “First, I am a respectful person towards elders, not only teachers but also the janitors on our campus. Second, I am a student who knows how to share with others, willing to listen to my classmates' stories. From that, I can understand, empathize with, and help my classmates become better people.”
Finally, I am a competitive student. I compete to become better than I was yesterday. I will strive to present the image of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities not only as excellent and good in Hanoi but also nationwide.”
Tuan Huy answers the question during the final night of the competition.
In his new role as the face of USSH students, Tuan Huy plans to take additional classes in public speaking skills and gain more experience in this field if given the opportunity. His personal image is that of a friendly, sociable male model who is always dedicated to group activities.
Looking back on the difficult moments, challenges, and first milestones of his student life, Huy summarizes it with his favorite motto, "Everything happens for a reason." This saying has helped him maintain an open mind, think positively, and gain more confidence to overcome all obstacles.
Vietnam Student Newspaper: New Mr. USSH: Excellent academic record, former PVF youth player.
