Last week, Le Yen Trinh, a former student of Hoa Binh High School in Gia Lai, completed her final procedures to begin university. Behind her current joy, few knew of her arduous journey battling illness.
Trinh recounted that in the summer of her 10th grade year, after multiple hospital visits for an unusual neck symptom, doctors diagnosed her with thyroid cancer. Within two months, she underwent two consecutive surgeries.
Upon hearing the doctor's advice on post-surgery radiation therapy, Trinh burst into tears, fearful and worried about her future health.
"I still had so many unfinished plans ahead," the student recalled.
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Yen Trinh completing her enrollment procedures at Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade, 12/8. Photo: University provided
Despite her health challenges, Trinh chose to continue taking prescribed medication while pursuing her studies. She faced immense pressure, yet achieved a good academic standing in 10th and 11th grade with an average score over 7, then earned an excellent record with 8,58 points in her final year.
At the end of 12th grade, Trinh applied for direct admission to Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade. She shared that her parents moved to Ho Chi Minh City for work when she was only three years old. Since then, she lived with her paternal grandparents in her hometown, meeting her parents only two times a year. Now, with university admission, her joy is doubled.
"My current rented room is about 15 minutes from where my parents live, so I can see them every day," Trinh said.
Her early health crisis gave Trinh a unique perspective on life. Instead of withdrawing from adversity, she wanted to travel more and connect with more people, leading her to choose Hotel Management as her major. Trinh plans to continue her medical treatment while striving to enjoy a dynamic and vibrant student life.
Pham Thai Son, Director of the University's Admissions and Communications Center, stated that Trinh was admitted under the special health condition category, as she could not participate in regular admission methods. With her strong academic record, the admissions council determined Trinh is fully capable of pursuing her chosen major.
"Her dedication to learning and unwavering hope are admirable. The university will create the best possible conditions for her to study with peace of mind," Mr. Son said. Trinh will receive a tuition fee exemption for the first semester, approximately 20 million VND, and a monthly living allowance of three million VND. This policy will continue if she maintains an excellent academic record and completes social work in subsequent semesters.
Nguyen Quyen - Le Nguyen
