A top student's journey from Quang Ngai

Despite a challenging upbringing and frequent school transfers, Dang Van Gia Huan persevered to achieve a top score of 28.5 in the A00 exam group.

Dang Van Gia Huan, a student from Mo Duc 2 High School, secured a spot among the top 5 highest scorers in the A00 exam group (math, physics, and chemistry) in Quang Ngai province in the 2025 high school graduation exam. He intends to apply to the integrated circuit design program at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Vietnam National University.

Huan initially dreamt of becoming a doctor. In 10th grade, he participated in the provincial-level biology competition for excellent students and received an honorable mention. However, recognizing the high costs associated with medical school, he shifted his focus.

"Watching my father tinker with and build electronic devices sparked my interest, and I realized I enjoyed and excelled in physics," Huan shared. He went on to win third prize at the provincial level in 11th grade and an honorable mention in 12th grade.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Huan now hopes to excel in his studies to support his family. "If I don't persevere, I don't know what will become of my family," he confessed.

Huan, his father, and two younger siblings currently reside with his aunt in Long Phung commune (formerly Duc Nhuan commune, Mo Duc district) after years of moving around. His family is considered near-poor (with a per capita income below 1.5 million VND per month), relying mainly on a few acres of rice paddies.

Gia Huan repairing electrical appliances with his father. Photo: Pham Linh

Gia Huan repairing electrical appliances with his father. Photo: Pham Linh

His father, Dang Van Chinh, 50, explained that Huan is his eldest son. When Huan was 4, his parents divorced, and his mother moved south to earn a living. As an electrician and mechanic, Mr. Chinh also sought opportunities beyond farming, traveling extensively for work.

Huan's education was disrupted by these moves. After one semester of first grade at Bo De Primary School near his home, he transferred to Dong Ha School in Nghia Ha commune (a former commune of Quang Ngai) when his father remarried. After third grade, Huan transferred again when his father moved to Nghia Chanh commune (a former commune of Quang Ngai) for work. After almost three years, they moved to Gia Lai province, where they farmed and ran an electrical repair shop.

Just as their business was thriving, Covid-19 struck, causing financial hardship. After his wife became pregnant with twins, Mr. Chinh decided to return to his hometown. Thus, in 7th grade, Huan transferred to Song Ve Secondary School near his home. In 10th grade, he began attending Mo Duc 2 High School.

Huan acknowledged that the constant transfers initially affected his academic performance. While he faced discouragement, his father's encouragement to study for a better future kept him motivated. He also received support from his mother, who returned from the south when he was in 7th grade, bought him a laptop, and provided monthly financial assistance.

Huan emphasized his focus on understanding lessons in class. With his laptop, he could access online practice tests. He also wrote key concepts on small notes, sticking them on walls and windows for regular review.

Ngo Khac Vu, a teacher at Mo Duc 2 High School, described Huan as a diligent and well-liked student. Aware of his circumstances, local authorities and philanthropists have provided financial support for his initial university expenses.