In the 10th-grade entrance examination administered by the Hanoi Department of Education and Training, Nguyen Hai Nam, a student from class 9A at Hanoi - Amsterdam High School for the Gifted, achieved a score of 9,75 in both specialized and general mathematics, 10 in English, and 8,5 in Literature.

These scores positioned Nam as the top-ranking applicant for 10th-grade specialized mathematics in the city this year. Previously, he also secured the top position for specialized mathematics at the High School for the Gifted, University of Pedagogy, with a perfect score in general mathematics and 8,75 in specialized mathematics.

"Both the family and Nam were surprised, happy, and felt a touch of luck", shared Ms. Linh, Hai Nam's mother.

Nguyen Hai Nam. Photo courtesy of family

According to Nam and his family, his journey in mathematics was not a sprint but a steady, persistent preparation starting from his early middle school years. Recognizing Nam's early aptitude for math, his parents helped define a clear path, avoiding "rushed or crammed learning".

"He studies math out of natural passion, never seeing it as a duty or a burden", Nam's mother explained. She noted that he doesn't follow a "grinding problems" style but prefers to take his time, enjoying the process of finding solutions to challenging problems. This passion allows Nam to spend hours pondering a single problem.

"This approach significantly reduced the pressure of specialized exam preparation", she added. His persistence also earned Nam a second-place prize in the city-level mathematics competition for gifted students a few months ago.

Nam stated that he utilizes diverse reference materials. Beyond worksheets from his teachers in class, tutoring sessions, and team training, he enjoys independently reading books on the beauty of mathematics. Nam has been a consistent reader of Pi mathematics magazine for many years. He also frequently searches online for interesting math problems or discusses them with friends.

Despite his passion for mathematics, Nam's parents ensured he prepared early for non-specialized subjects and maintained a balanced daily schedule. In his free time, Nam listens to music, watches tivi, reads books, plays games, or plays musical instruments. He is particularly fond of sports programs and enjoys playing football and basketball.

Mr. Cao Van Dung, the homeroom teacher of class 9A at Hanoi - Amsterdam High School for the Gifted, praised Nam's exceptionally outstanding, sharp, and profound mathematical thinking.

"Nam not only solves problems quickly but also constantly seeks elegant and unique solutions", Mr. Dung stated. He was also impressed by Nam's extreme modesty, calmness, and willingness to patiently explain lessons to friends.

"He receives absolute affection and admiration from both teachers and friends. Nguyen Hai Nam is truly a bright gem", the teacher added.

As Nam enters high school, Ms. Linh stated that she does not wish to create pressure for achievement but hopes her son will have ample time to experience academic and extracurricular activities.

"Currently, the family is not rushing to set any grand examination plans; we only hope Nam will continue to preserve and develop his love and passion for mathematics, allowing him to freely advance further with his passion", she expressed.

Doan Hung