The seminar began with a short video commemorating the 5-year collaboration journey among three universities: Cornell (USA), Pennsylvania (USA), and VinUniversity (VinUni). This video aimed to reinforce the global development and connectivity of VinUni, a relatively young institution.

A scene in Auditorium 200

Revolving around the theme "Future Orientation: Choosing a School and Choosing a Profession," the students had the opportunity to meet Professor Lourdes S. Casanova from the prestigious Cornell University. The professor, who earned her Ph.D. at the University of Barcelona, was recognized as one of the 50 most influential Iberoamerican intellectuals in both 2014 and 2015 and one of the 30 most influential Iberoamerican women intellectuals in 2017. Alongside her, there was also VinUni's Philosophy lecturer, Professor Billy Wheeler, who boasts years of experience as a researcher.

The two speakers and the students

Continuing the program, the two professors presented their perspectives on finding one's passions. For Professor Casanova, although passion is a good foundation for shaping the direction of the future, perhaps more importantly, each individual needs to understand their strengths and explore popular professions, thereby making informed decisions. In contrast, Professor Wheeler emphasized that following one's passion should take precedence in the decision-making process. Every student should learn how to explore their genuine interests to tailor their educational choices according to their personal aspirations.

The exhilarating atmosphere of the seminar

Entering the second topic, the two professors enthusiastically instructed students on how to select suitable universities. Professor Casanova emphasized that students must balance between their personal life and their academic journey, as each individual has different financial circumstances and priorities. Those who prefer staying close to family may favor domestic universities, while those with suitable financial conditions may seek opportunities abroad. Furthermore, she highlighted the quality and reputation of education in Vietnam, refuting a common perspective held by some contemporary students and parents. Additionally, according to Professor Wheeler, students also need to consider the universities' academic programs, locations, and cultures; ensuring compatibility with the characteristics or "personality" of the desired institution, based on interactions or discussions with current students or alumni of that university.

The two Professors

The discussion then focused on nurturing core elements for success. Here, the two Professors outlined 6 skills and qualities that each student should possess: Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Flexibility, and Patience. Therefore, the university experience, with its diverse programs and activities, becomes the tool that helps each student develop their abilities comprehensively, turning them into young leaders for the future.

The students attentively listening

Next, the students were given the freedom to ask questions about relevant issues. The interactive session featured two notable questions: "In a situation where a career path has been defined and pursued for a while, but eventually feels unsuitable, what should one do?" and "In the context of an increasingly developing society, what should students do to keep up with new trends?" For the first question, Professor Casanova suggested flexibility and readiness to adapt to a new direction as early as possible to avoid wasting time. Meanwhile, Professor Wheeler believed that this is unavoidable but also a valuable experience, providing a foundation for learning, self-understanding, and avoiding mistakes.

Moving on to the next question, Professor Casanova shared her personal experience, particularly the challenges posed by the rapid advancements in technologies like artificial intelligence. According to her, the most effective way to cope with these rapid changes is to continuously strive to learn, train, and reinforce knowledge. She emphasized the need to transform teaching and learning methods to keep pace with developments.

A question from a History Major

The seminar concluded with an endorsement of VinUni and a photo session. The organizers distributed brochures as instructional materials to the attendees, providing students with opportunities to explore into their fields of interest more deeply.

The successful seminar

Through the seminar, the students have gained valuable knowledge and broadened their perspectives on their future education and occupational choices. We sincerely appreciate VinUniversity and Cornell University for providing the seminar with valuable information and materials, contributing to the development of the students at the High School for the Gifted in Hanoi - Amsterdam.

Author: Hoàng Thị Ngọc Minh - English 1 ('23 - '26)

Photographer: Nguyễn Lê Quốc Anh - Physics 1 ('23 - '26)

Translator: Phan Khánh An - English 1 ('22 - '25)