With an average score of 8.57/10, Nguyen Hoang Nhat Thi also ranked second overall at the University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, in 2025.

Six years ago, she gained admission to the dentistry program through a competency assessment exam. However, the young woman from An Giang province stated that her journey was not straightforward, but involved many twists and turns before she was honored at her graduation ceremony.

"In that moment, I felt so satisfied; all the hardships and tears shed became worthwhile", Thi shared.

Nguyen Hoang Nhat Thi, the first double valedictorian of the Faculty of Odonto-Stomatology, University of Health Sciences. Photo: Provided by subject

As a child, Thi enjoyed watching beauty bloggers, was interested in cosmetics and skincare, and dreamed of starting her own cosmeceutical brand. In high school, she was determined to study in Ho Chi Minh City, drawn to the city's vibrant life after several visits to her sister.

Initially aiming for Pharmacy, which required a focus on the B00 block (Math, Chemistry, Biology), Thi instead enrolled in a specialized Physics class at the School for the Gifted, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City. She felt this was the only subject where she could secure a spot, as her mother, a teacher, tutored her.

Every weekend, Thi and a group of friends traveled over 200 km to Ho Chi Minh City for extra classes, then took a bus back to An Giang. She later achieved her desired admission, dedicating time to studying Math, Chemistry, and Biology for university entrance exams.

Thi recounted that despite a week full of extra classes and support from friends, she struggled with Chemistry. This resulted in a high school graduation exam score of 23/30 in 2019, which was lower than her expectations.

"I was disappointed in myself, crying every day because I thought this score wouldn't be enough for Pharmacy", Thi recalled, acknowledging that even if she had been admitted, Chemistry would have been a major barrier to pursuing the major.

Therefore, when applying for university admission using her competency assessment exam scores, Thi listed dentistry as her first choice. She decided she needed a change, setting a goal to graduate as the top student in the major to proactively learn and avoid regrets after six years of study.

Thi during a free medical examination trip for residents in 2024. Photo: Provided by subject

Thi proactively contacted senior students for materials and advice on study methods. For every subject, she reviewed and completed assignments beforehand, noting any unclear sections to ask about in class the next day. During her studies, Thi paid close attention to areas emphasized and expanded upon by her professors for thorough revision. Previously, Thi would often get nervous speaking in public and feared drawing attention, but she actively participated to make a good impression and earn bonus points from her teachers.

The young woman from An Giang also became more disciplined, prioritizing early sleep and early rising for effective study without compromising her health.

A tip Thi used to achieve high scores on multiple-choice tests was to meticulously review lecture slides. This was crucial because answer options could sometimes differ by just one word, and reviewing slides helped her identify these subtle differences to select the correct answer.

The real challenge emerged in her fourth year, when she began preclinical studies, practicing on dental models. Thi struggled with using a hand drill to prepare abutments for porcelain crowns, ruining dozens of models and still unable to replicate the illustrative images.

"I wondered if I couldn't even do something so simple, how could I pursue this profession. I thought this clumsiness would never improve", Thi shared, admitting that the crisis was so severe she wanted to quit. She began researching other majors like Psychology or Nutrition to prepare for a career change.

However, Thi also had a habit of writing a journal to release emotions, listening to inspirational podcasts, visiting temples, and reading books. She found these activities helped lighten her heart and gradually reduced stress. She resolved to be responsible for her choice, at least until graduation.

Thi recalled a clinical visit where her mentor shared that he had broken dozens of tooth roots when he first started, reassuring her that "everyone makes mistakes when they begin". With her mentor's support and encouragement, Thi completed basic procedures and gradually came to believe that "I can do it".

The clinical study phase also altered Thi's initial perception of dentistry as an "easy and lucrative" profession. She realized that even a simple tooth extraction carried potential risks to a patient's health and life. This work demands meticulousness, patience, and significant responsibility for human health.

This served as a source of motivation for Thi to overcome the exam students likened to the "81 tribulations", which covered theoretical knowledge from the third to the sixth year, alongside practical content from 12 subjects.

Thi (far left) during clinical practice at the hospital. Photo: Provided by subject

During her teaching and clinical guidance, Associate Professor, Doctor Truong Mai Van, Deputy Head of the Faculty of Odonto-Stomatology, was impressed by Thi's diligent and serious approach to studying. She was not afraid to ask questions and was willing to admit when she was wrong or unclear.

Before a relatively difficult clinical treatment case, Thi researched materials and treatment plans at home, then proactively met with her professor to ask about her concerns. On many other occasions, she stayed after practice hours to clarify techniques she had not yet mastered, "fearing harm to patients".

"That is the attitude of a future medical professional, always prioritizing the patient's well-being", Professor Van said, suggesting that her student could excel in both clinical practice and research and teaching.

Thi believes her six years of university taught her perseverance and patience. Her goal for next year is to pass the professional practice certificate exam, then work while pursuing specialization.

"I don't have a fixed path, I just know I'm moving forward, bringing benefits to patients", Thi stated.

Le Nguyen