Reporter (RPT): Christmas is approaching; how do you feel about the Christmas atmosphere at Ams right now?

Mr. Ngan Van Ky: At the moment, the Christmas atmosphere at Ams is quite evident. From small corners to the windows of classrooms, the color red is more prevalent. Especially in the main hall, a tall and brightly decorated Christmas tree has appeared, adorned with intricate patterns. Amsers are already immersed in the festive Christmas spirit. Recently, I noticed the weather getting colder, and Christmas-themed scarves have become a common sight, adding vibrant colors to the students' outfits.

Nguyen Tuong Vy - 11 Math 1: As a 10th grader at Ams, Christmas was the most joyful time for me. It was the first time I saw such a massive Christmas tree and saw my friends so lively and cheerful. When I went out during recess, looking down from the second floor, I see  groups of friends, classes, and clubs gathering around the Christmas tree for photos and videos. That Christmas was so much fun; it was the first time I saw everyone so close, like a family. However, this Christmas, I feel a bit disappointed. Perhaps due to too many plans, the pressure at school and from extracurricular activities, I somewhat neglected the things around me. Suddenly, one day, a large Christmas tree appeared right in the middle of the Uncle Ho lobby. At that moment, I realized it wasn't a dull Christmas but rather that I had been too indifferent to reality. That Christmas tree revealed many things in my thoughts, as if I were transported back to the precious time of my 10th-grade year, enjoying the most valuable things that student life had to offer.

Nguyen Khanh Uyen Nhi - 11 History: Actually, due to many reasons, I hadn't paid attention to Christmas approaching. Suddenly, one day, I saw a massive Christmas tree along with dozens of gift packages right in the Ho Chi Minh Lobby, and at that moment, I was surprised: "Oh, Christmas is already here?" The emotions at that time were very joyful and exhilarating because the holiday I love had finally arrived. However, I also felt a bit confused and disappointed because time indeed passes by quickly...

Teacher Ngan Ky next to the radiant Christmas tree in the main hall.

RPT: People often associate Christmas with reunions and warmth. What warm experiences have you had at Ams during this Christmas?

Mr Ngan Van Ky: Truly, Christmas is a time for reunions; many parents working far away unexpectedly return right on Christmas Day, surprising many children. For me, Ams is always a place I want to be at because there are always colleagues worth learning from and intelligent, dynamic students.This year, like every year, my birthday falls close to Christmas, and the birthday wishes from colleagues and students are truly wonderful and appreciated.

RPT: Christmas is approaching. Do you and your friends have any plans for Christmas at Ams? Could you share a bit with the readers?

Nguyen Tuong Vy - 11 Math 1: Definitely! Christmas is a time for friends to gather and enjoy each other's company. The first destination in our plan is to take a photo in front of the Christmas tree, a must-see spot at Ams during Christmas. Next, we plan to explore the Old Quarter, with a special stop at St. Joseph's Cathedral for another photo. Finally, to conclude our journey, we decided to visit the GHA's workshop not only to make handmade items for this Christmas but also to preserve the memories of our group throughout the past year.

Le Thi Ha Anh - 11 Russian: My friends and I made plans for Christmas a long time ago. We will definitely have a meal together and exchange some cute gifts. We have been so excited for Christmas, so we've carefully prepared plans for this special occasion.

Nguyen Khanh Uyen Nhi - 11 History: Check-ins, for sure! I will invite my best friends from Ams to check-in and take some photos by the Christmas tree in Ho Chi Minh Lobby, and then move on to the Book Cafe and the Ams Dining Hall for a Christmas-themed Food Tour. Of course, we can't miss the classic Christmas songs like "Last Christmas," "Jingle Bell," and "Feliz Navidad" that we listen to every Christmas. Just thinking about it makes me so excited!!

Nguyen Ngoc Minh Anh - 11 Literature: Unlike last Christmas when I didn't really know many people well, this year I've got this awesome group of friends to hang out with for Christmas. We decided to bake some goodies together and surprise each other with secret gifts, so I'm hoping this Christmas will be really special.

Nguyen Ngoc Minh Anh in a unique outfit celebrating Christmas.

RPT: Do you have any suggestions for places where people can take Christmas photos at Ams?

Nguyen Ngoc Minh Anh - 11 Literature: I feel that the school always puts a significant effort into celebrating holidays, and this year, Ams has prepared a giant Christmas tree in the front hall. I see groups of friends gathering there every day to take photos. Additionally, the Book Cafe at Ams is also a great place for photos. It's warm, clean, and elegant, so I'm planning to have a Christmas photo shoot there.

Le Thi Ha Anh - 11 Russian: At Ams, you absolutely have to check out the Christmas tree in the hall. It gets adorned so beautifully every year. Personally, I love it when the Christmas tree lights up in the evening; the photos turn out to be breathtaking. Moreover, the classrooms in the buildings get decked out with posters, Christmas trees, and twinkling LED lights, setting up a really lovely and snug vibe. If anyone's interested, I reckon you could ask for permission to snap some photos in the classrooms and soak in the Christmas spirit there.

Lê Thị Hà Anh looking cheerful for Christmas

RPT: What Christmas gift do you want to receive most?

Le Thi Ha Anh - 11 Russian: Tough question here, but I think what I need the most is a higher GPA than last semester to pursue my future plans. I also love handmade items, like baked goods; they're super cute, so I hope someone will give me such things. If not, at least I want to have an evening of baking treats with my family to celebrate Christmas.

Nguyen Ngoc Minh Anh - 11 Literature: Certainly, the biggest gift I wish for is to ace all subjects with top marks, especially in math since I've put a lot of effort into it. It's almost like more of a wish than just a gift, something I've always hoped for. Additionally, I'd love to have a short vacation with my family for a few days (even though I just got back from a trip, hehe).

Surprise Christmas gifts at 11 History

As another Christmas season draws near and brims with hopes and anticipation; the lively year of 2023, marked by dedication and hard work, is gradually winding down. From the insights into the thoughts of the teachers and students of Hanoi - Amsterdam High School, it's evident that the Christmas atmosphere here is truly lively and warm. The Ams Wide Web editorial team wishes everyone to receive the Christmas gifts that they desire, and to have a peaceful and joyful Christmas celebration with family and loved ones.

Reporter: Ta Le Thuc Quyen - Literature (‘22 - ‘25)

Photos: Provided by the interviewees

Translator: Phương Hạnh Thuỳ Dương - English 1 ('22 - ‘25)