Reporter: Thank you for joining with AWW today! First of all, why did you decide to pursue a teaching career and become a Chemistry teacher?

Oh, the reason is actually quite funny, so I'm just going to tell you this: At first, I didn't actually have that much interest in the teaching career, mostly just because I had the advantage of studying Chemistry Major in high school. But the more I learnt, the more I fell in love with this subject. Moreover, since I started teaching, I've loved the fact that I'm able to bring out each student's talents and strengths.

Ms. Hong always comes across as a cheerful and friendly person.

Reporter: Nowadays, I heard a lot of students' complaints about Chemistry being a challenging subject to grasp. What are your thoughts on this, and what are some peculiarities of Chemistry that you think are worth sharing?

Chemistry is a natural science subject, like Physics and Biology. However, this subject has its own quirks, for example: a lot of technical knowledge to memorise, laws are not as clear as Physics, and experiments are usually hard to carry out,... so students often find Chemistry difficult. Nevertheless, I think that many students see the beauty in Chemistry, thanks to its practicality, and the thrill of watching and conducting a science experiment.

She is also a very energetic teacher who never fails to bring a positive learning environment.

Reporter: I heard that you have successfully led the school's teams in numerous IJSO Science Competitions, thus helping a number of students proudly bring home prestigious awards. Do you mind sharing some notable memories with us?

I surely have a lot of memories, and IJSO certainly holds a special place in my heart. Perhaps the most memorable event was the long trip where I flew half the Earth to reach Argentina in 2014. It was also the first year that I led a team which successfully won a Gold Medal. I can still recall the sheer happiness that I felt when I got handed the two teams' practical test results, the scores were really high and I couldn't help but leap for joy. I couldn't even hide my pride and the wide smile on my face; it was so obvious that the other teams' teachers just need a glance at my face to conclude that our team must have received a great result!

IJSO 2018 was also an unforgettable memory as Vietnam's Team entered the top “The Country Winner” for the first time ever, and a lot of records have been established!

Reporter: To this day, Chemistry is still has a big gender gap, with far fewer girls interested in this subject. What are your thoughts on this?

To be honest, I don't usually give it much thought. In my opinion, what’s important is that you study something you truly love, every subject is wonderful in its own way and should be greatly appreciated. I respect all students' effort, as well as their choices.

Ms Hong and her students.

Reporter: Do you have any special memories at Ams on 20/10?

Everyday at Ams is special to me, so 20/10 is just like any other day!

Reporter: Finally, for 20/10, are there any good wishes you'd like to send to all the schoolgirls out there?

Last year or the year before that, I liked to wish them the strength to face challenges with confidence. However, this year, I'd like the girls to be forever beautiful, positive and loved!

Once again, I'd like to thank you for your time! For Vietnamese Women's Day, I wish you the best of health, happiness and fortune! May success be with you in every walk of life!

Reporter: Doan Thi Thanh Ha - Chinese 1720

Photography: NVCC

Translator: Le Minh Ha - English 1922