Ta Thanh Dong, 24, recently graduated with a doctor of Odonto-Stomatology degree from Hanoi Medical University. With a GPA of 8.39/10, Dong was the valedictorian of his class, 2019-2025.

His close friend, Hoang Tung Kien, 24, also became valedictorian of Odonto-Stomatology at Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, with a GPA of 3.84/4.

"Having Dong as a friend, walking together for so long, I feel very happy and grateful for his presence during the past time," Kien said.

Thanh Dong (left) and Tung Kien. Photo provided by the interviewees

Thanh Dong (left) and Tung Kien. Photo provided by the interviewees

The two men, both from Hanoi, met in 2016 as students in Math Class 1 at the Hanoi National University of Education High School for Gifted Students. Dong’s first impression of Kien was his thoughtfulness and compassion.

"When the class was first formed, I ran for class president, but wasn't chosen. Kien was the only one who came to comfort me," Dong recalled.

Coming from families with traditions in Odonto-Stomatology, both Dong and Kien chose the B00 combination (Math, Chemistry, Biology) early on to pursue this field. This shared goal brought them closer. In addition to their regular classes, the two students attended tutoring sessions for math and biology. Dong often struggled with biology, so he frequently asked Kien for help. In return, Dong, confident in math, assisted Kien. They constantly exchanged knowledge and supported each other's studies.

In the 2019 national high school exam, both students scored above 26 points and were accepted into their desired programs. Although they no longer attended the same school, Dong and Kien stayed in touch, regularly sharing study materials and discussing their studies.

Both focused on understanding the fundamental principles of each topic, which allowed them to expand their knowledge and pursue advanced studies. Kien often took the initiative to create outlines, while Dong, after each class, would compile a list of questions based on the lesson's content and answer them himself.

Kien's favorite subject was Periodontology, which focuses on common gum diseases. Dong was interested in Orthodontics. This helped shape their career paths, with Kien aiming to become a doctor treating oral diseases and Dong specializing in orthodontics and orthognathic surgery.

Dong fondly remembers the first time they both received the Vallet Scholarship in 2022. Named after French Professor Odon Vallet, the scholarship was worth 24 million dong (approximately 1,000 USD in 2022). Each university typically awards a few of these scholarships annually to outstanding students. For Dong, it was a form of recognition, a testament to their hard work and dedication in their respective environments.

Dong and Kien at one of their friend's graduation thesis defense sessions. Photo provided by the interviewees

Dong and Kien at one of their friend's graduation thesis defense sessions. Photo provided by the interviewees

As members of the Odonto-Stomatology Club at their respective universities, Dong and Kien also had many opportunities to meet during professional activities.

Kien remembers the International Dental Congress on Medical Research and training (IDCMR), held in late 2024 in Quang Ninh. Both friends had research selected for presentation and both won prizes. They also had time to reflect on their journey and discuss their future plans.

Throughout their 6 years of study, Dong and Kien rarely missed each other's important events, such as yearbook photoshoots, thesis defenses, and graduation ceremonies. Kien anticipated becoming valedictorian after his last exam in May, but Dong still had to wait for his thesis grade. So, on the day of Dong's defense, Kien attended to support him.

The day they officially learned they had topped their respective Odonto-Stomatology programs, Dong felt a sense of fulfillment in addition to joy.

"Having someone to accompany me and achieve good results together, I feel like the joy is doubled, happy for myself and for my friend. This is a very meaningful result for both of us," Dong said.

Describing his close friend, Dong sees Kien as easygoing, dedicated to his friends, and always supportive. In terms of academic ability, Kien is exceptionally bright, absorbing knowledge quickly, and was both the top entrance exam scorer and valedictorian of their program.

In Kien’s eyes, Dong is meticulous and hardworking, with a clear plan for his future. In addition to his professional skills, Dong has an IELTS score of 8.5 and recently received the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship.

Nguyen Thanh Cong, their homeroom teacher in 10th grade and biology teacher throughout high school, remembers both students for their cheerfulness, friendliness, and enthusiasm.

He noted that both Dong and Kien were excellent students in Math Class 1, maintaining their academic excellence in university and earning numerous scholarships and awards. Therefore, he was happy but not surprised to learn of their valedictorian achievements.

"I believe Dong and Kien will find their way to become leading experts in this field," Cong said.

Cong (wearing a hat) meets with Kien (sitting next to him), Dong (far right), and other former students of Math Class 1, 2016-2019. Photo provided by the interviewees

Cong (wearing a hat) meets with Kien (sitting next to him), Dong (far right), and other former students of Math Class 1, 2016-2019. Photo provided by the interviewees

In early October, Dong will travel to Japan to begin a 4-year doctoral program in Orthodontics. In the long term, he hopes to return to Hanoi Medical University as a lecturer, while also practicing dentistry.

Kien divides his future plans into two phases. In the next 5 years, he hopes to present his long-term research on a professional platform. In the following 5 years, his goal is to make a practical impact, successfully treating patients.

The two friends will continue to support each other on their upcoming journeys.

Thanh Hang