Taking part in the National Russian Competition 2010-2011 and obtaining a high prize, Kieu Thi Khanh Linh maintains her level by winning the first prize in this school year's National Competition. From her 12 Russian classroom, Khanh Linh spoke with Hanoi-Ams correspondent, Do Nu Ha Phuong.

 Hello, at first, I would like to wish you a happy International Women's Day with your family and friends. Could you tell me how you felt when you received the news of winning the National Russian Competition first prize?

 Linh: I was surprised at the result as I had never expected such a high score. Last year, I only achieved the second prize, so my success is partly attributed to luck.

 Joining the school Russian team must be of great pressure. What do you do to alleviate stress?

 Linh: Actually, the Russian team's lessons are not as tough as assumed. To me, these lessons bring no pressure but fun and the study atmosphere is relaxing. The teachers do not put any stress on us; moreover, they make these periods more interesting by narrating Russian funny stories and discussing social issues with us in Russian as well.

 What did you do to balance the Russian team's work and other subjects at school?

 Linh: Besides the Russian team's class, I am also enrolled in some cram classes for other subjects. I also get help with my study from my teachers and classmates.

 Could you share some of your tips on Russian study?

 Linh: Like any other languages, Russian includes four skills that need mastering: Reading-Listening-Speaking-Writing; therefore, I have to practice all four skills everyday and do plenty of grammar excercises, and especially I have to write a lot to build up my vocabulary as well as grammar structures...

 Do your family approve of your participation in the National Competition since being in the school Russian team means you must try so hard that you cannot spend time on other subjects?

 Linh: My parents always respect my opinions and let me be independent of my study so I feel free to make my own decisions.

 In the future, do you have a plan to study overseas or continue to attend university in Vietnam? And which discipline are you about to major in?

 Linh: I am not sure, I will not make any certain decision on the career path till the end of March. However I intend to major in International Relations (IR).

 Thank you very much for the brief but interesting talk. I hope that in no time I will have another chance of interviewing you again-a sweet, straight and smart girl!

 Correspondent: Do Nu Ha Phuong

Translator: Nguyen Phuong Quynh (A1 11-14)