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From her earliest days at the prestigious Phan Bội Châu High School for the Gifted, Hà Ngọc Anh carried a spark—a quiet but unshakable determination to pursue her dreams. She envisioned herself at a renowned American university, a goal that would require overcoming countless challenges. To prepare, she embarked on the journey to secure a scholarship at an International Baccalaureate (IB) high school, a highly respected credential for university admissions. But her path began with heartbreak when UWC, her first choice, sent a rejection letter.

Surrounded by doubts from those around her, Ngọc Anh faced an uphill battle. Many questioned whether she could achieve her dreams, and she found herself torn between two demanding paths: continuing her scholarship applications or focusing on her Chemistry Olympiad training. But rather than letting doubt dim her ambition, Ngọc Anh resolved to forge ahead, determined to prove that no obstacle was too great to overcome.

A Journey Defined by Resilience

Ngọc Anh’s journey was far from easy. She worked late into the night, perfecting her essays and preparing for interviews, all while enduring health challenges. Yet she refused to give up. Every step forward brought her closer to her goal.

Her perseverance paid off. Among several prestigious offers, Ngọc Anh accepted a full scholarship to the International School of Schaffhausen in Switzerland. Studying in such a vibrant and multicultural environment opened doors she had only dreamed of, including the chance to explore 11 European countries. These experiences weren’t just about sightseeing—they were life lessons in adaptability, resilience, and self-discovery.

One memory, in particular, stood out: a solo trip to Paris, where she navigated the city without internet or a clear plan, relying solely on her resourcefulness and the kindness of strangers. For Ngọc Anh, that journey mirrored her IB application process: a path filled with uncertainty but also incredible growth. It reminded her that the courage to chase her dreams mattered far more than others’ opinions.

The Seed of a Dream

Ngọc Anh’s close bond with her grandparents was a cornerstone of her childhood. Her grandfather not only taught her to read and solve math problems but also instilled values that shaped her deeply. This connection inspired her passion for elderly care. After reading an article about nursing homes and the stigma surrounding them, Ngọc Anh felt a strong pull to create a solution that allowed seniors to stay with their families while receiving the care they needed.
Ngọc Anh began refining her vision through action. She competed in and won accolades at prestigious competitions, including placing in the top 12.5% at the Social Entrepreneurship Competition in Tourism and winning the Vietnam Youth Social Business Challenge 2022. These experiences honed her understanding of customer service and business operations—skills she would need to bring her idea to life.

She also co-founded Buney Network, a platform connecting students with tutors. Her success earned her a fully funded opportunity to present at the Youth Summit in the Philippines. Additionally, a memorable stay with an elderly host in the Netherlands provided her with personal insights that deepened her commitment to her mission.

A Bright Future Ahead
As Ngọc Anh prepares to begin her next chapter at Kenyon College, her journey continues to inspire. Her courage, tenacity, and unwavering belief in her dreams have brought her this far, and they will undoubtedly carry her forward. MiYork Education is honored to have been part of her story and eagerly awaits the day when her vision for transforming elderly care becomes a reality.

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