Phong, a former English-specialized student at Tran Dai Nghia High School for the Gifted, TP HCM, enrolled in the English language pedagogy program a few weeks ago. The student stated he began considering a teaching career at the start of grade 10, when he was selected for the national competition team and won second prize.

Good achievements were a motivation, but also created significant pressure. The student often doubted himself, wondering if he could "make further progress" or "maintain his achievements". Thanks to encouragement and inspiration from the team's coaching teachers, Phong regained confidence and went on to win first prize nationally for two consecutive years.

"I also want to become a friendly, professionally competent, and inspiring teacher, like the teachers I learned from", Phong said.

Tuan Phong, a former student of Tran Dai Nghia High School for the Gifted, TP HCM. Photo: Provided by subject.

Phong took the IELTS exam in grade 11 to gain an advantage for university admissions. Taking the exam right after the national excellent student competition, he did not prepare extensively, aiming only for an 8.0 score. Therefore, Phong was surprised to receive a perfect score.

"I couldn't believe my eyes; I thought the 9.0 score sheet was a sample, and only after reading it carefully did I confirm it was my information", Phong said.

The student mentioned he was exposed to English from the age of 4 and continued supplementary lessons at centers until the end of middle school. Initially, he was eager to learn English to watch foreign reality TV shows, movies, and cartoons, later gradually shifting to scientific content and knowledge related to his curriculum. English was like "a door" that led him to a more diverse and open world.

Phong believes that application is a prerequisite for language proficiency. He regularly practiced speaking English with classmates or native speakers when opportunities arose. According to the student, learning a foreign language requires perseverance; every small improvement is worth acknowledging.

"Don't put too much pressure on yourself or set too many goals; haste makes waste, and the more stressed you are, the harder it is to absorb information", Phong shared.

Tran Kim Duyen, Head of Foreign Languages at Tran Dai Nghia High School for the Gifted, who coached Phong for many years, assessed him as an all-round excellent student. He possesses creative thinking, self-study ability, and a spirit of eagerness to learn from teachers and friends, without being arrogant or complacent.

"Phong is very resilient, independent, and always ready to support his peers, helping teachers organize extracurricular activities", Duyen said.

Building on his high school foundation, Phong expects to experience many activities during his four years of university, in addition to striving for good academic results. In the long term, the student hopes to become a high school English teacher.

Le Nguyen