I was born in Cam Ranh of Khanh Hoa Province. I came the first in the entrance exam of 2005-06, which pressured me to study well in the fist year. I had concentrated in studying without paying attention to any activities until I was voted as the vice monitor in my class.

I was then elected as a member of the Youth Union branch's executive board of Mathematics Department. I continued working as deputy secretary of the Youth Union cum chairwoman of Quy Nhon University's Vietnam Students Association.

At first, I refused because I was afraid that I couldn't complete tasks, but I was then encouraged by the headmaster and I was more confident.

I've created many activities for students to participate like the "MC's talent" contest held in late 2007 during the past two years. It is a driving force for me to try my best to create more and more activities. I'm dreaming of setting up a tutor center for students.

Some may think that joining the youth union's activities is a waste of time. That's not true. Thanks to such activities, I'm able to learn how to organize my studying and time.

In the academic year 2006-07, my average point was 9.02 and I got the third prize at the National Mathematics Olympics Competition. Sometimes I was stressed but my friends and teachers helped me no end.

Receiving the January Star Award, I was really happy because my effort was acknowledged. I will try to do better.

Tran Thien Chinh

When being the January Star Award, I was happy. That will be an unforgettable memory in my life.

I'm in charge of the secretary in my class in which 80 percent of students is female. Some of them didn't want to participate in the Youth Union's activities. Their only aim is to study. I persuaded them to join as fans. I'm always proud of activities at my department.

When doing voluntary work, I felt myself better. Time for voluntary activities could be the best time of my life when I was student. During three years working for the Youth Union at school, I have been mature and confident.

I don’t always get what I want in my study and life. My parents are farmers in Cat Lam Commune of Phu Cat District. Their life is really hard. I, therefore, promised to try my utmost to overcome difficulties.

I have many intentions for the future. But, at present, I have to study well to become a good teacher.

• Hai Yen (translated by Hong Quang)