Thuy Hien - a girl from Quang Nam province became the valedictorian of Journalism at Hanoi University of Humanities

When asked about her feelings when she learned that she was the valedictorian, Thuy Hien shared with joy and pride: “Until now, I am still very surprised and overwhelmed with happiness when I learned that I was the valedictorian of the journalism major. Because when I set foot in Hanoi, I only set the goal of graduating with a Good degree, with some capital and experience in journalism. But the Excellent degree with the title of valedictorian is truly a great gift, proving my constant efforts.”

Leaving her hometown to study in a new environment, Thuy Hien could not avoid difficulties. Finding a place to live in the heart of Hanoi was a big challenge: “When I first came to Hanoi, everything was so new and strange to me, from houses, roads, to people. The first 2 days of searching for accommodation, I forgot to eat and sleep and still could not choose a satisfactory place. But fortunately, the Me Tri Dormitory Management Board created favorable conditions for me, I had a stable place to live for 3 years, I personally feel very grateful to the Management Board, who are very attentive, create favorable conditions, and provide the best living environment for students.”

Thuy Hien and her father were honored at the graduation ceremony.

In addition, getting used to a new land, new cuisine and new people when there are differences in language, life views, lifestyles... is also an obstacle. The girl from Quang had to change her taste and communication style to adapt to the living environment in the capital: "I remember the first week I couldn't finish a meal because all the food was blander and had a strange taste. Or when I talked to some people, they didn't understand what I was saying. Then I learned to adapt, change from taste, how to use appropriate language, how to start a conversation and the culture of behavior and communication..."

But the biggest difficulty is probably studying in a completely different environment, struggling to approach new learning methods. But thanks to determination and support from her family, Hien confided: "I have to get used to proactive learning, searching and researching learning materials, being flexible in transforming the knowledge of different subjects into my brain, applying it to real life and being proactive and creative when approaching each mid-term and final exam."

She frankly admitted that she is not a very intelligent person, but that did not discourage her: “I do not have a good memory, am not good at speaking, and my access to technology is still weak. So I use the motto “hard work makes up for lack of intelligence” to achieve my goals.”

Thuy Hien was honored to represent the students to speak at the graduation ceremony.

Not only relying on diligence, Thuy Hien also has scientific learning methods: "I always set long-term and short-term goals, make specific plans for each day and week, take notes on what I have learned and always find ways to overcome weaknesses." She also does not forget to encourage young people to take advantage of group study, where everyone can learn from each other and develop their strengths.

The important thing that Hien emphasized is being proactive in learning: “At school, I always attend classes regularly, absorb the knowledge that the lecturers impart, and search for additional materials to understand more deeply.” In addition, the group study method is also a factor that helps her develop: “I share my strengths and learn from my friends to achieve the highest efficiency in studying.”

Not only relying on diligence, Thuy Hien also has scientific learning methods: "I always set long-term and short-term goals, make specific plans for each day and week, and am always ready to learn more documents and examples to apply in practice." She also does not forget to encourage young people to take advantage of group study, where everyone can learn from each other and develop their strengths.

With her excellent achievements, Thuy Hien not only graduated a semester early but was also honored at the Temple of Literature. “I ranked 3rd in the top valedictorians of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - Vietnam National University, Hanoi with a GPA of 3.82/4.0 and a training score of 94/100. But luckily, I was 1 of 2 students from VNU-USSH selected to be honored as one of the 100 excellent students of the Capital, and that was also thanks to my total score of excellent study and training.”

Thuy Hien smiles and stands confidently in the middle of the Temple of Literature - where she received the title of Valedictorian of Journalism..

Thuy Hien also said that being honored as valedictorian at the graduation ceremony and at the Temple of Literature is a great honor. This is the motivation for me to continue to strive on the long road ahead."

Inspired by the movie Pinocchio to a passion for journalism

When asked about the reason for choosing journalism, Thuy Hien shared that since childhood she has admired female reporters and editors, but her true passion was ignited by a movie. “The movieThe wooden girl- Pinocchio inspired me, about journalists who are constantly dedicated to bringing the truth to the public.”

Thuy Hien could not hide her excitement, but was also very cautious. “The journalism profession today faces many challenges, from changes in the way information is transmitted to the pressure of the speed of news. I understand that to survive in the profession, in addition to professional knowledge and practical skills, the ability to adapt to technology is very important.”

Thuy Hien was honored as valedictorian with GPA 3.82.

With a clear vision, the young girl has determined her goal to continue practicing her journalism skills, while constantly learning about digital tools and new media. She emphasized: “Acquiring technology and grasping digital media trends such as electronic newspapers and social media are indispensable in today's era.”

In addition, Thuy Hien also shared about the opportunities and challenges that journalism brings. “The opportunity to meet interesting people, important events and the ability to contribute to the dissemination of information is what I love most. However, I also understand the challenges of time pressure, high requirements for Party spirit, timeliness, accuracy and professional ethics in each article.”

She received the certificate of merit for Outstanding Young Face at the grassroots level 2023.

For Hien, journalism is not just about transmitting information but also about connecting people, exploring and reflecting life in the most authentic way. It is that passion that has helped her maintain her love for journalism, even in difficult times.

In addition to studying, Thuy Hien also works as a contributor for many newspapers such as Phap Luat Viet Nam, Nha Bao and Cong Luan, and also works as a copywriter. These practical experiences have helped her balance between studying and working, while developing the skills necessary for journalism.

The torchbearers

Talking about the people who inspired her on her journey of learning and growing up, Thuy Hien could not hide her emotions: “I feel extremely lucky to have received help from the people around me right from the first days I set foot in the Capital. The staff at Me Tri Dormitory created favorable conditions for me to settle into my new life, while the learning environment at the Institute of Journalism and Communication, University of Social Sciences and Humanities - Vietnam National University, Hanoi, met my expectations.”

Portrait of valedictorian Nguyen Thi Thuy Hien.

Besides, her dedicated instructor, Mr. Phan Van Kien, was also the one who helped her become more confident in scientific research. In particular, her friends and colleagues in Hanoi, with their dynamism, talent and enthusiasm, contributed to training a stronger and more mature Thuy Hien.

In the most difficult moments, when homesickness and life pressure weigh heavily, Thuy Hien always thinks of her family - where she finds great encouragement to continue striving. Her family is not only a source of spiritual encouragement but also a driving force that helps her understand that pursuing her dream is not only for herself but also for her loved ones. In particular, she does not forget to thank herself - a version of a resilient Thuy Hien, constantly striving and always reaching towards the light like a sunflower.

She confided that, for her, family is always the most important support. “Although I am far from home, I always feel the care and concern of my parents and relatives, from simple inquiries every day to strong words of encouragement whenever I encounter difficulties. My family is not rich, but my parents have never spared anything to invest in their children's education. That has become the biggest motivation for me to constantly strive.”

She also does not hesitate to give advice to young people that they should not let circumstances decide their lives. Whether you come from the countryside or a big city, the most important thing is still your will and effort. "I believe that everyone will experience challenges, but it is from those failures that we grow up. The important thing is to determine your goals, know how to look up to strive and know how to be satisfied with what you have" - ​​Thuy Hien said.

Study hard, reach far from Quang Nam to Hanoi

Thuy Hien’s future plans after graduation are not only to work as a collaborator but also to go further in the field of journalism. Although there are many opportunities to develop her career in Hanoi, Thuy Hien still has a special affection for her hometown Quang Nam. This valedictorian hopes to contribute to Quang Nam Newspaper – the place that nurtured her dream and gave her valuable practical experience during her years as a collaborator.

“No matter where I am, I always want to contribute to my hometown and to the provincial press. Quang Nam is not only where I was born and raised, but also the place that has strongly inspired me in my career path” - Hien shared with pride in her eyes.

She received the Phan Chu Trinh award, Phu Ninh district, Quang Nam province 2024.

At the same time, Thuy Hien also plans to expand her cooperative relationship with other editorial offices when she has the opportunity to go to Hanoi, and aims to study for a master's degree in journalism to improve her professional knowledge. Not stopping there, she also focuses on developing foreign language skills, especially English and Chinese, along with improving her communication skills to meet future job requirements.

She believes that continuous learning and gaining experience is essential for sustainable development in the journalism industry. “Knowledge is always changing and technology is developing rapidly. I do not want to stand still, but always look for opportunities to improve myself and bring the best quality articles,” Thuy Hien affirmed.

Currently, Thuy Hien devotes much of her passion to writing articles that connect the community. She believes that journalism is not only a tool to convey information, but also a bridge to help build solidarity and mutual understanding in society. "I always believe that, through each article, journalists can have a profound impact on the community. What I want most is to write real stories, things that are useful to society and the community," Hien shared with enthusiasm.

Looking back on her entire journey, Thuy Hien has no regrets. She is satisfied with what she has achieved, believes in the law of cause and effect and lives according to human ethics. She not only strives to be a model party member but also, first and foremost, a good citizen, always obeying the law and contributing to society.

Thuy Hien’s story is a testament to determination and relentless efforts. From a small girl in Quang Nam, she has conquered all challenges and shined with the title of valedictorian of journalism. Through that, she not only achieved her personal goals but also strongly inspired young people who are pursuing their passion.

Vietnam Student Newspaper: Thuy Hien – A girl from Quang Nam province became the valedictorian of Journalism in Hanoi Capital.