Speaking with VietNamNet, Dung expressed his joy over the achievement following six years of relentless effort.

As a former student of the Math-specialized class at Hanoi - Amsterdam High School for the Gifted, Dung said his classmates typically pursued fields in Information Technology or applied mathematics. For Dung, however, the decision to pursue Medicine came naturally.

"Near the end of 11th grade and the beginning of 12th grade, while most of my peers had clear orientations such as studying abroad or picking specific majors, I was still uncertain. I only knew that I wanted to do something that could help many people. Once, when a family member experienced a health issue, I became more acutely aware of health as a priceless asset, which drove my determination to pursue Medicine and become a doctor to help others," Dung recalled.

Six years ago, Dung was admitted to the Medical program at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy – Vietnam National University, Hanoi through the transcript-based admission method for specialized high school students.

"Candidates pursuing medical and pharmaceutical fields are usually specialized Chemistry or Biology students. As a 'math guy,' I worried I would face difficulties because the medical field requires a vast amount of natural science knowledge," Dung said.

However, guided by knowledgeable lecturers with extensive practical experience, Dung gradually gained confidence.

"Studying in an environment alongside many talented peers also motivated me to strive," Dung shared.

Dung noted that he had no special study secrets; the most important key was finding a learning method suited to himself.

"Our six-year program was split into two phases. For the first three years, we primarily studied at university. Starting from the second semester of our third year, we began clinical internships at hospitals. During the hospital internship phase, we still had to keep up with campus coursework. Like most other students, this transition phase was one of the toughest parts for me," Dung said.

He considered himself and his peers fortunate to receive dedicated guidance from department faculty and lecturers who double as practicing hospital physicians. "We were given opportunities to intern at top-tier hospitals such as Bach Mai, Viet Duc, and the National Children's Hospital," Dung recounted.

In medicine, beyond focusing on classroom lectures, clinical rounds and direct patient interactions serve as invaluable experiences.

"I always respect patients and regard them as teachers who help me mature in my profession," Dung said.

Before each clinical session, Dung researched background knowledge and jotted down questions needing clarification. Upon arriving at each department, he prepared the theoretical framework before cross-checking it against clinical practice to verify his knowledge. Conversely, practical experiences helped him understand theoretical concepts more deeply and clearly.

When encountering difficult issues, Dung sought advice from instructors and attending physicians directly treating the patients. Upon returning home, he read textbooks and researched additional online sources regarding those specific clinical cases and specialties.

Despite graduating Summa Cum Laude, Dung understands that he, like other recent medical graduates, will face numerous challenges.

“Becoming a full-fledged doctor brings greater responsibility. Every case, lab result, diagnosis, or prescription we issue is no longer just a lesson or a test question, but behind them lie the expectations and even the lives of patients. Those responsibilities will serve as motivation urging me to keep striving and learning every day," Dung said.

Admitted to residency program

Through persistent effort, Dung earned the Academic Encouragement Scholarship in 10 out of 12 semesters.

Dung also actively participated in class and university movements. He served as a member of the Executive Committee of the University's Youth Union for Terms II and III, and served as an organizing committee member for numerous programs hosted by the Youth Union and Vietnam National University, Hanoi.

Dung revealed that he recently passed the medical residency examination at Hanoi Medical University and will pursue his training over the next three years. He is currently weighing his choice of specialization, which will be finalized on September 9.

"I plan to choose a clinical specialty to directly examine and treat patients," Dung shared.

Dung believes that residency training will be a journey to hone the missing skills and knowledge necessary to become a skilled physician in the future.

Thanh Hung