Nguyen Thi Duc Minh and Nguyen Duc Sang, 22, are twins from Phu Tho (formerly Vinh Phuc). In June, Duc Minh graduated at the top of her class in geography education from Hanoi National University of Education with a GPA of 3.92/4. Duc Sang graduated with honors in mathematics education with a GPA of 3.64/4, placing him among the top 50 in his program.

A little over a week ago, both signed contracts to work at their former high school, Vinh Phuc Specialized High School, and are currently awaiting the civil service exam. Sang will teach 10th-grade math, while Minh will teach 11th-grade geography.

Nguyen Thi Thanh Huyen, deputy head of the history, geography, economic and legal education department at Vinh Phuc Specialized High School, said it was unprecedented for twins to both graduate with honors and return to teach at the school.

During their time as students, both won national prizes in grades 11 and 12. Minh won third and second prizes in geography, while Sang achieved second and third prizes in math. Both were admitted to Hanoi National University of Education through direct admission and chose the advanced program.

"I never thought we would be together on such a long journey," Duc Minh said.

Duc Minh and Duc Sang at their graduation from Hanoi National University of Education in June. Photo: Provided by the subjects

Duc Minh and Duc Sang at their graduation from Hanoi National University of Education in June. Photo: Provided by the subjects

Minh and Sang’s parents both work as librarians in schools. Therefore, the twins were encouraged to pursue education to become teachers. Teachers at Vinh Phuc Specialized High School also encouraged them, seeing the twins' aptitude for teaching.

"I had contact with many teachers from Hanoi National University of Education when I was on the gifted student team at my high school, so I was very motivated to choose this university," Sang said.

Minh, despite some initial hesitation, ultimately chose education. The experience of teaching free online classes to 9th graders preparing for the 10th-grade entrance exam during her 12th grade further solidified her passion for the profession.

At university, both took about a semester to adjust to the new learning style and environment. This was also the semester with many general subjects, and despite being in different majors, the twins supported each other to achieve good grades from the start.

Once they began their major-specific courses, the twins thrived, as their knowledge base had been cultivated during their national competition training. Tutoring from their first year also motivated Minh and Sang to strengthen their knowledge and teaching skills. Additionally, Minh contributed to writing books for an education company.

"Part-time jobs not only provided income but also helped us hone our skills while still in school," Minh said.

Minh (right) and Sang as children. Photo: Provided by the subjects

Minh (right) and Sang as children. Photo: Provided by the subjects

Minh's biggest challenge was time management, as she also conducted scientific research and participated in numerous extracurricular activities as the head of the K71 student block in the geography department.

Minh meticulously planned her entire semester, noting the most important tasks for each phase. She focused on understanding the lectures and always volunteered to be class president or vice president to foster a sense of responsibility.

Sang was not as busy as his sister, so from his third year, he began taking some master's level courses. At Hanoi National University of Education, advanced program students who completed certain undergraduate courses could do so to shorten the time needed to obtain a master's degree later.

Sang also dedicated himself to finding materials and delving deeper into the knowledge required for teaching at the high school level.

"The former Vinh Phuc province has a policy of attracting and developing talent from excellent students, so I also set a goal of graduating with honors to return to the school under this program," Sang shared.

After Tet this year, both siblings registered for an internship at Vinh Phuc Specialized High School.

Minh and Sang with their parents on graduation day. Photo: Provided by the subjects

Minh and Sang with their parents on graduation day. Photo: Provided by the subjects

Having taught the twins for almost their entire high school career, Nguyen Thi Thanh Huyen described Minh and Sang as intelligent, hardworking, and highly determined.

"I'm not surprised that they both returned to teach at the school, especially Duc Minh," Huyen said. "Minh's return to the school was part of my 4-year strategy. I want to train a qualified next generation to maintain the standing of Vinh Phuc Specialized High School's geography department."

Despite Minh being new to the school, Huyen has entrusted her with teaching the advanced class.

Both Minh and Sang plan to pursue master's degrees this coming October at Hanoi National University of Education.

"Our greatest wish is to continue our association with Vinh Phuc Specialized High School," Minh said.

Duong Tam