Reporter: Thank you, Gia Minh for joining this interview with the website today. Can you share some of your feelings when you knew that you would be a part of Grinnell?

Gia Minh (GM): Grinnell has been my dream college since

the very beginning, so I decided that I would apply for the college during Early Decision. When I received the acceptance letter, I was over the moon. Before that, I had undergone a stressful period of time as I had to compose so many essays with no time to spare. All the pressure went away as I saw the magic word “Congratulations” in the acceptance letter. It was when I realized that “I have grown up even more since I am now a college student”.

Gia Minh (12 Chinese) is a member of many clubs such as Glee Ams, Ams Media, GHA, …

Reporter: Currently, many young teens have chosen to study abroad to pursue higher education. Why did Minh choose to study abroad?

GM: I decided to study abroad because I believe that college provides a springboard for the coming future. It cannot be denied that I will have to face many difficulties, but I will also earn countless benefits as a return. For me, Ams is a small society, thanks to Ams, I have learned many skills as well as academic knowledge such as photography, logistics and life values like social behavior. Those are my preparations for the life ahead. I expect Grinnell to provide me with what Ams has given me for the last three years.

Reporter: Applying for US colleges is definitely not easy. What were your preparations?

GM: Together with honing social skills, I also prepared myself mentally to challenge my perspectives of life.  I was a conservative person before because I strictly followed my own philosophy. However, keep following that path and we may find it hard to study abroad. High score in standardized test is only a part of college application that everyone has to prepare, so changes in perspective are highly important in seeking for success. For me, accepting changes has directed me to another insight of thoughts. I have come to learn more about myself, realize my shortcomings and find a way to improve every single day.

Gia Minh is passionate about photography, having won First Prize with Wakanda in Humanoid Photo Contest

Reporter: Which major are you going to follow and the reason why?

GM: I intend to pursue Psychology, concentrating on neuroscience. During my application process, to compose main essays, I had to read a lot of document concerning social psychology. The more I researched, the more I felt attracted. Additionally, with a Psychology degree, when I complete my study, there will be many career choices on the table since every field requires to understand human psychology, also the human factor is instrumental in everything.

Reporter: Lastly, do you have any advices for 1720 students who will undergo their college application process nest year?

GM: A nice resume does not mean it is flawless. College is the place to resolves those flaws. Even if your SAT, TOEFL or IELTS scores are low, don’t be worried because colleges won’t judge solely on academic aspect. You will be accepted if you are believed to maximize your capabilities. If you fail, it will not be the end, it will open another door to another college. Lastly, best wishes to 1720 and please continue to make Hanoi – Amsterdam High School for the Gifted proud.

Reporter: Ha Mi – Chinese 1619

Translator: Nhat Minh - English 1720