Reporter: For you ,what is the best word to describe your feelings after your triumph in the recent National High School Chemistry exam? Why?

If I had to choose the most suitable word, it would definitely be "Pride". Although I feel I could do better considering all the efforts I’ve put into this ordeal from the beginning until now, this is still an achievement worth taking pride in.

Dang Khoa's picture in the yearbook photo

Ngo Huy Dang Khoa (2nd from the left) and his teacher surrounded by 9th grade Chemistry students

Reporter: About your recent journey with the National Team, what are some things you have learned?

DK: To be fair, the National Chemistry exam has taught me a lot of things. In addition to some extra knowledge of Chemistry, I feel that I have learned both how to focus and give something my maximum effort. 

Ngo Huy Dang Khoa (6th from right to left) in a photo with the National Chemistry team

Reporter: I’ve heard that your family carry over a tradition of winning high prizes in Chemistry exams. Can you share more about this with the Ams Wide Web Reporters Team?

DK: About that… Well, my brother has recently won the First Prize in the National Chemistry Contest despite no having any outstanding achievements beforehand and retaining an average academic performance. But it was his best efforts that won him the top prize, which vicariously boosted my morale on my journey as well. Besides, my parents are actively sustaining the best conditions for me to follow Chemistry, and my uncle is also a Chemistry teacher, giving me early access to this subject.

Ngo Huy Dang Khoa's family with excellent achievements in Chemistry

Reporter: Apart from your family, is there anything else that motivated you to pursue Chemistry at such an early age?

DK: The irresistable pull of Chemistry has rekindled in me the dream of becoming a chemist. That very dream is the driving force for me to pursue this subject from an early age.

Ngo Huy Dang Khoa's family

Reporter: After the 10th grade entrance exam, many students chose to wind down, but you chose to start your journey with the Chemistry team instead. Have you ever considered this a disadvantage?

DK: Sometimes I feel tired and regretful because I didn't take a break to participate in activities and clubs at school. But for me, spending a summer studying Chemistry and taking Chemistry exams is also full of joy because it has given me new friends and further insights into the subject. Therefore, I do not regret my decision.

Reporter: Lastly, can you say some words of motivation to devotees of Chemistry or like you keep on pursuing their dreams?

DK: There is a saying which greatly inspired me, “Aim for the moon. If you miss, you'll land among the stars.'' Therefore, I would like to say the same thing to those of you who love Chemistry and want to go on a serious pursuit like I did. I hope you will always try your best even if the results are not as expected, because no matter what, there are still memorable and valuable experiences to be gained on this arduous journey.

Best regards to Ngo Huy Dang Khoa for sharing your magical journey. May you achieve greater success in your next undertakings, and be sure to always maintain your admirable passion for Chemistry!

Reporter: Nguyễn Lan Hương - History 2023

Image Source: Provided my interviewee

Translator: Nhat Huy - English 2023