I chose DUE: A journey to 28 points built on perseverance and confidence

With an impressive admission score of 28/30, first-year student Tran Thi Thanh Duyen, from Class 52K01 of the Faculty of Tourism and International Business, has been named valedictorian of the standard programme at the University of Economics - The University of Danang for 2026.

Born and raised in Da Nang, Thanh Duyen was a student at Phan Chau Trinh High School. In the 2026 National High School Graduation Examination, she achieved strong scores in key subjects: 9 in Mathematics, 9 in Physics, 8.75 in Literature and 8.5 in English. She had previously been recognised as an “Excellent Student” for three consecutive years, with an academic grade point average of 9.6.

For Thanh Duyen, the 28-point result is more than an impressive score; it is the outcome of a long and sustained effort to pursue her goals. There were times when she felt under pressure and questioned her own abilities, particularly when her results fell short of expectations. However, envisioning the day she would complete the examination and gain admission to her dream university, together with encouragement from her family and teachers, gave Duyen the motivation to keep moving forward.

Interested in economics, particularly international business, Thanh Duyen chose DUE for its reputable and dynamic learning environment and the wide range of opportunities for practical experience. In her view, the field not only enables students to engage with multinational business environments and the links between markets, but also provides opportunities to develop foreign-language proficiency, communication skills and adaptability in an increasingly integrated global economy.

“DUE is the university I have great confidence in when it comes to the quality of economic education in central Vietnam. Its reputation and quality were the main reasons I decided to place my trust in the University”, Thanh Duyen said.

From the very first orientation and welcoming activities for new students, Duyen said she could feel the University’s attention and enthusiasm towards its incoming students. This has further motivated the valedictorian to set herself the goal of becoming a student who “studies hard and makes the most of university life”, taking an active approach to learning, participating in clubs, teams and student organisations, and contributing to the DUE student community.

During her four years at university, Duyen’s foremost goal is to develop independent, open-minded and flexible thinking, as well as the ability to chart her own path. She has also chosen a “proactive spirit of learning” as a value she intends to carry with her throughout the journey ahead.

Drawing from her own experience, Thanh Duyen has a message for fellow students: scores may open a door, but discipline, perseverance and confidence in oneself are the essential qualities that enable each person to continue growing, adapting and pursuing greater goals in the future.

Thanh Duyen’s notable achievements:

- Admission score: 28/30

- Achievement: Named an “Excellent Student” at Phan Chau Trinh High School in Da Nang for three consecutive years