Reporter (R): Firstly, I would like to thank you for taking the time to participate in the interview! Among many professions, you have chosen to become a devoted teacher. Therefore, after many years teaching, can you share some of your feelings about your work?

Ms. Huong (CH): For me, I have been interested in the career since childhood. In my free time, I usually taught the household neighborhood children. I really like children. They are naive, innocent and need not think much. My family is full of siblings, with a variety of professions such as doctors and pharmacists. However, becoming a teacher, I not only considered it as just a profession, but also a great joy in life. 

Ms. Doan Thi Lan Huong on the Opening Ceremony of school year 2019-2020 (fourth person from the right)

R: Over many generations of students, you must have had many memorable memories. So was there a story, or classroom that you considered unforgettable?

CH: Everyday, I often confide with students and also listen to their own stories. One day, a student called me and cried, then asked to see me after school. She had problems with her family. I was confused as I had not experienced such pain, so I could only listen. After that, I had to look up information from books, from friends, in order to advise her properly. Everything turned out fine, she went to study abroad and kept in touch with me until now. That was when I felt, being a teacher was really good.

R: Every teacher has their own journey, a boat will probably dock multiple times. Can you share your "ferrying" journey since graduating from University till now? And will Hanoi - Amsterdam High School for the Gifted be the last stop on that trip?

CH: Since graduation, I have taught in about ten schools. It wasn’t until 2015 that I returned to Ams. I really loved the working environment as well as my students. They are active in learning and are active in extracurricular activities. My colleagues are close and affectionate. This is my fifth year here, and if possible I will stick with the school to the very end.

R: There have been reports from  student generations that you are a devoted and intimate mother. How did you feel as you received the compliments?

CH: Actually, similar to other jobs, if I love it, then I will feel the work is light. I love being a teacher and I love her students. That's why, I want to do something for those I love. I only know that I have to do her best and must make every effort possible to provide students with the knowledge they need most. The so-called commitment, I believe it comes from the love and passion in each person's heart.

Ms. Doan Thi Lan Huong and students

Reporter: As an exemplary teacher, what do you expect from your students?

Q: Not accounting for my expectations of student’s diligence, my greatest desire for the students is their openness and understanding. If there is something to share, either it be difficulties in studying or in life, I am always here, ready to listen and help them to the best of my ability.

R: And finally, on the occasion of Vietnamese Teachers' Day on November 20, do you have anything to say to other teachers?

CH: Vietnamese Teacher's Day on Nov 20 is a sacred holiday. Everyone has their own teacher, and I really want to pay tribute to the teachers who taught me to this day. At the same time, I also want to thank my colleagues who have been with me for a long time. I wish everyone good health and that they will have fun and enthusiasm with their professions.

R: Thank you for your sharings!

Ms. Lan Huong's thoughts and feelings touched me deeply. She was a devoted teacher, possessing a warm and gentle heart, just like our second mother. On the occasion of Vietnamese Teachers' Day 11/20 approaching, I wish her good health, happiness, and that she will forever keeps her enthusiasm with her career, reaping many successes in life.

Reporter: Hoang Van Anh - Literature 1922

Photo: Teacher Doan Thi Lan Huong

Translator: Nguyen Hoang An - English1 1821