Bob Phan Khải Minh – Class of 2024

Hi, my name is Khải Minh, more commonly called Bob by friends, teachers, and everyone else haha. I was part of the Class of 2024 cohort so that would make me an SNA alumni. Currently, I am enrolling in the School of Languages through an exchange program at Ho Chi Minh City International University (HCMIU).

By the time of graduating, I have studied at SNA for a total of 13 years! Back from kindergarten to finally taking the very first step into the real world. Looking back and writing it out seems so surreal to me, I quite literally grew up with SNA and experienced all of its changes throughout the years. Honestly, I don’t think I was ever one that stood out or had anything special, but what I had and only recently learned to appreciate more is the close friends that I have made in my time at SNA. For me personally, stepping into university was challenging since I didn’t have any old friends, imagine an entirely new and unfamiliar place with zero connections, and no familiar faces, and it will now be my new home for the next couple of years. It was daunting to me having that realization.

Anyway, one thing I have to admit is how much studying at SNA and specifically how IB had prepared me for university. To be frank, so far I find university to be leaps and bounds easier than what I had experienced with the two hellish years of the IBDP. I guess a couple of tips for the to-be examinees are to start looking back at the entire course, take time, and take down notes of the lessons. Just do a little bit each day so it doesn’t become repetitive and by the time study leave comes, you’ll be ready to “review” for the exam not trying to “learn” it last minute. Another thing that saved me was savemyexams and Quizlet, they were my go-to places to study and review for the exam. Finally, don’t be too stressed out about everything, the more you spread out the time to study and review, the lighter the load will be by the time D-day comes.

Thanks for reading my rambling haha, I guess this is a nice nod to SNA and a pleasure for me to have an opportunity to write this.

G’day everyone. I am Minh Lac, but most call me by my English name, Randy. I am one of the SNA’s Class of 2023 alumni and currently pursuing higher studies at the University of Sydney (USYD) in Australia. Known for its natural aesthetics and diverse culture, there are endless sightseeing and experiences that are reasons for me to study in Sydney.

I had been to Australia multiple times before with my family, but this is my first time being here alone. Every responsibility that was used to be at home is now on me, from cooking to laundry to academic responsibility. I was able to manage such chores, whilst keeping my studies and grades afloat.

My first-year experience at USYD was somewhat transformative. Initially, I wasn’t aware of how the “culture” of learning works, so I ended up confused. Eventually, I got through two semesters enough to see how lectures and tutorials operate and how to work on assignments. My personal favorite experience was doing laboratory work as a student partaking Chemistry. I get to collaborate with other students regarding projects, assignments, and be part of a researching community that has global effects, bolstering both my theoretical and practical chemistry knowledge. Another moment was when one of my units of study hosts a field trip to learn more about the agribusiness, as part of the assignment. I will never forget such long, but memorable trips.

Apart from the usual university studies, I partake in a few programs up until now. These programs help students boost their soft skills needed in the workforce. For instance, I was a mentor for groups of high school students dedicated to turning theoretical tinkering into tangible biotechnological products. My motivation comes from my family’s positive trait of helping others when they need guidance. Hence, I plan to join the university’s program to become a mentor for first-year Science students next year, mainly to help students walk through the complexes and confusions of the university’s culture.

Of course, my life isn’t bounded only in university, as there were so much to see around Sydney, from the Blue Mountains to Sydney Harbour National Park. Living close to a train station allowed these faraway trips possible, and I get to see the entire view of Sydney from different perspectives. I already visited known places such as Taronga Zoo, Centennial Park, Sydney Harbour National Park in Manly and Watsons Bay, and so on. My years in Sydney cannot go to waste studying away my time, as there is so much to do as an international student in Australia. I hope to visit Tasmania, Perth, or Newcastle someday.

Even though I travelled to Australia before, it is my first time experiencing and integrating into the Australian culture, both in and out of university. It is here that I begin to make meaningful friendships and explore Australia, whilst receiving the best education one can have. My one advice for anyone who plans to study in Australia is to always seize the day, travel as much as one can (within budget, of course). There is no better time to travel and explore than now, and there may never be next time. None of this is possible without the support from my SNA teachers, especially to Mr. Leslie Tran and Mr. Ben Tran who helped me on the path of my degree. SNA has been my second home, and always will be. I also express gratitude to my parents who truly supported my decision to study in Sydney.

Hi guys, I am Yen Van (Kathy), SNA class-of-2023 alumni, and currently studying Animation and Interactive Media (Bachelor of Design) at RMIT university, Melbourne, Australia – a peaceful country associated with the name “the land of kangaroos”.

To me, studying abroad in Australia is an amazing and memorable experience. Melbourne city brings me source of positive energy, source of creative inspiration, and source of studying motivation. I have fascinated by vintage-styled architectural buildings, unique art streets, and especially sweet desserts in here. I have also met lots of friends, from different countries, and learned various things from their artistic styles. I personally love the living, studying and working environment at Melbourne city, therefore, if given the chance to turn back time, I would still choose to study abroad in Melbourne, Australia.

However, same as most of students who study abroad, I sometimes feel lonely and sad because of homesickness, and missing the time when being a SNA student and living in SNA dormitory. The life of studying abroad requires lots of dependence and strong mindset, and I am no longer being sheltered or reminded in the smallest matter. I have to manage my personal schedules, complete household chores, buy neccesities and food, make meals, calculate living costs and use public transportation, all by myself. Thanks to that, I have learned how to balance between studying and life. Advice that I want to send to those who are intending to study abroad is:  always be yourself, be confident, keep learning and enhancing experience, and pursue your passions and goals wholeheartedly; and explore and enjoy the moments!

This last paragraph is all about words of thanks: I want to send my sincere thanks to all teachers at SNA, friends and my family for always accompanying and supporting me throughout the past. Thanks to your words of encouragement and kindness in teaching, they have helped me develop myself better. You all have brought me an abundance of valuable knowledge through inspiring lessons, and taught me skills neccessary to life. Thus, I have become stronger, more confident, and independent when studying abroad.

Hello my lovely SNA family, my name is Thien or you can call me Hynos or Louis, in general I have many names :))) I am a former student of SNA and currently I am studying and living in Sydney, Australia.

After graduating, I was equipped with a wealth of knowledge and experience that the teachers at SNA had given me. I think Australia is a country worth living and studying for students who can adapt to a completely new environment.

My advice for current students at SNA – who is planning to study abroad – is that you might face a lot of challenges in the beginning, so you need to prepare many things in advance before going to another country to live and study.

In general, when abroad, you have to be independent and hard-working, but don’t worry; These qualities have been taught and given to you by a team of caring and qualified teachers at SNA. Another piece of advice is that boarding students should go to bed early because you won’t be able to sleep much after graduation.

Finally, I would like to thank all the teachers and people I have known at SNA for giving me such beautiful memories throughout my student life. LOVE YOU ALL.

Hello everyone, I am Quan (Johnny), an alumnus of SNA’s Class of 2023 and a current student at Maastricht University, the Netherlands – A country known for its colorful Tulips, windmills, and Stroopwaffels. As an international student coming to a foreign country, I have faced many difficulties, however, it has also helped me grow. Notably, the most difficult challenge I found was adapting to the Dutch culture and that of many countries. At Maastricht, I have had the chance to meet many other international students coming from the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, Moldova, and the US. But also those from my home country, Vietnam. The biggest advice I would give if you were to face a multicultural environment is to be yourself and always remember that it is not only you but others who are also experiencing it for the first time, so don’t be afraid to communicate with others!

Another difficulty that I found when I came to the Netherlands was the nature of studying abroad. When you study abroad, you must do everything yourself, whether that is setting up appointments, going to groceries, cooking or cleaning the house. Even though it is hard to balance everything at the beginning, you will get used to it over time, and I must admit that it has significantly helped me grow as a person by becoming more independent, responsible and resilient. Being here has given me many opportunities to broaden my understanding and view of the world, improve and develop new skills, meet new friends from various backgrounds, and travel to many new places. From that, I can confidently say that I do not regret my decision to study abroad in the Netherlands. Lastly, I would like to show my sincere gratitude to SNA and my teachers for helping me be well-prepared for my study abroad and higher education journey!

It has been more than 4 months since I left SNA, my beloved teachers and friends to take on my next journey. I joined Monash University in July when I opened the door to a whole new life. Studying in another country is not easy at the beginning. I had to meet new teachers, make new friends, understand, and adapt to different cultures, and most importantly – to overcome the challenges of living away from home. However, it has shortly shaped me into an independent and adventurous adult just after 2-3 weeks. I am able to try new things, learn new skills and many more life-changing experiences. I appreciate that I have already been equipped with basic and fundamental knowledge, academic and interpersonal skills at SNA. With such initial background and qualifications, I can broaden my knowledge, widen my perspectives, and adapt new way of studying easily. There is almost no gap in my educational transition from high school to university. I am thankful for the invaluable lessons being taught or guided by SNA teachers. I recalled there was a quote saying ‘we all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere’. Thank you, SNA teachers and staffs for all the effort and guidance that you have tireless invested in our education that help us grow and give us confidence to strive for success.

Looking back at my formative years spent at SNA, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the extraordinary journey it has provided. From those tender days as a wide-eyed kindergartener navigating the halls with trepidation to the present moment of self-discovery and realizing my passions, this venerable institution has been an instrumental force in molding the very essence of my being.

My utmost appreciation extends to the remarkable cohort of teachers and staff whose unwavering dedication has shaped not only our academic pursuits but also our personal growth. Your tireless commitment to our education, marked by countless hours of mentorship, guidance, and imparting wisdom, has indelibly imprinted itself upon the fabric of our lives. You have kindled within us a thirst for knowledge and a relentless pursuit of excellence that will continue to resonate in all our future endeavors.

From the enchanting melodies that reverberated through the halls during musical assemblies to the electric energy that filled the air during exhilarating sports victories, we have been blessed with an abundance of shared experiences that have woven an intricate tapestry of cherished memories. Let us not forget the collaborative projects undertaken through the CAS program, where we rallied together, immersing ourselves in acts of service and fostering a profound sense of community. It is these very moments, etched deeply within the recesses of our hearts, that have solidified the bonds we share, ensuring they endure the test of time and distance.

To the promising graduates of the future, I implore you to seize every opportunity that unfurls before you, for within the realm of possibility lies the key to unlocking your full potential. Treasure the connections you forge along the way, for it is through these cherished friendships that we find solace and support, embarking on a journey of growth and self-discovery. Dare to step beyond the boundaries of familiarity, embracing the unknown with unyielding resolve, and in doing so, you will unearth the hidden depths of your capabilities. As you traverse the corridors of SNA, remember that each moment holds the potential for transformation, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing the profound impact it will have on your lives.

As we stand on the precipice of new beginnings, let us not forget the indomitable resilience that has been forged within us during our sojourn at SNA. Through triumphs and tribulations alike, we have emerged stronger, armed with an array of skills that will propel us toward a future brimming with promise. Let our collective steps forward be guided by compassion, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to effect positive change in our lives and the world at large. With open hearts and receptive minds, we embark on this voyage, cognizant of our inherent power to shape a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.

I studied in SNA for eight years, but those first days here were still fresh in my mind like it was yesterday…
In 2013 for 4th grade, I transferred from a public school to SNA with little to no English. Since SNA is an international school, students would take subjects in English as one of the main languages. Being surrounded by students who could speak English fluently made me feel insecure and inadequate about my minimal English skills. Fortunately, I had the chance to become friends with both upper- and lower-class students besides my classmates. Everyone was so friendly; they never made fun of me for not knowing English but supported and helped me a lot in adapting and catching up with the lectures. The teachers are also very patient with me for not being good at English and always adjust the teaching pace to ensure everyone can follow. They also arranged a one-on-one class where I could get basic
English tutoring. After the first semester, I was able to keep up with my friends, thanks to all the support. Even though it was still somewhat challenging, I could still improved my English significantly as I was able to contribute in class activites. I am genuinely thankful for all of the love and support from my classmates and teachers at SNA, and I thank you for making me who I am today.
Here at SNA, teachers not only support students’ academic success but also encourage them to get out of their comfort zones for an all-rounded development of other skills. I’ve felt more open-minded about other people’s opinions of me and much more confident in my abilities thanks to the clubs and extracurricular activities I’ve joined. Along with opportunities to develop essential skills like public speaking, debate, collaboration, and leadership, I was given chances to broaden my network of contacts and contribute to community-beneficial projects. I used to be a passive and timid person. SNA, the school that has been my constant companion throughout the years, changed me into someone proactive, self-assured, and prepared to take on new challenges. Every time I reflect on my time at SNA, I am incredibly proud of and grateful for it.
I want to express my gratitude to all of the teachers and staff at SNA once more for all your contribution to a brighter future for students. Sincere thanks to my dear classmates from the Class of 2022 who have been by my side throughout my wonderful years at SNA. I treasure every second we spend together at SNA. I’m wishing you all the best!
I am and always will be honoured to be a member of the SNA family.

I had to say goodbye to SNA, my teachers, and my classmates who had supported me every day in class a few months earlier.

My teachers at SNA always encouraged me to “don’t look at others and be jealous of them but always be the best version of yourself.” I know I’m not the smartest kid in the class and I’m not that confident with the abilities I have. Hearing those statements made me incredibly happy since they showed that SNA can generate excellent academic students who are also very sentimental.

I have many joyful and terrible memories from the time I studied SNA from elementary school till I finished, but I won’t let those tragic memories overshadow the wonderful times and thrilling experiences I had the honor of having. I’m grateful to the school for providing me with those 11 years of memories, and I’ll work to be the best version of myself. I hope that the school’s upcoming pupils will have fresh memories and experiences.

I am Khanh Vy, class of 2022. Thank you to all of the teachers who have built us up, became a light on the path to our future, and became a crucial part of our life’s journey.

Next, I want to send this to all of my friends. Meeting all of you was my great pleasure. We survived the negative emotions of looming deadlines and lockdowns. But now, we have gone through the stress of CAS and Ib testing. No more questions about how is your CAS or please write your candidate code on the box. We took great joy in the happiness of companionship on this academic journey. Although we will all take our paths on a new journey, we will always support each other and I will always keep all of our memories in my heart. Thank you for making the ordinary moments in my life extraordinary.

IB has taught us to be global learners where we will always think about how to impact our community for the better. In addition, I have also been taught to understand myself more and evaluate the things that I actually want.

No matter what path you take from here, always remember to ‘follow your dreams, because they will guide your ambitions and goals. They will provide meaning and purpose to your life. Never lose the desire to achieve your goals. Even though Ms. Lauralynn is not here, I guess that she had said this to some of us. Do what you like, and if in the future, you don’t like what you are doing then change it. Thank you, Ms. Lauralynn for this lesson.

Lastly, I must acknowledge my parents. Without you, I wouldn’t have become a student who could stand and speak on this stage. Thank you for all that you have done for me. Thanks for being such great parents.

Overall, congratulations to the class of 2022.

There were so many ups and downs through our journey in IB. It would be boring if I address the same issue. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to briefly talk about my personal journeys in Vietnam and show my appreciation for those who have helped me to be here where I am right now.

I came to Vietnam in 2019. If I’m allowed to exaggerate a little bit, I literally got here with zero ability in English. Some of you would probably know if you took the same summer camp as me. Everything was new to me, strange to me and awkward to me. So, I wanted to give up. After 6 weeks, the end of summer camp at SNA, I was planning to go back to Korea.

However, unfortunately, my parents already paid for the tuition fee, so I couldn’t. My initial journey in Vietnam, more specifically boarding school, was brutal: New people, new cultures and new environments. However, with tons of helps from roommates, friends and teachers, I started to adapt to this new community and eventually graduated from SNA. Without their help, I could never be where I am right now. Thank you so much for all of you: you’d probably know whom I’m talking about.

Not only friends, but also there are so many people whom I’d like to show my appreciation to. It is unrealistic to have completed IB DP without their efforts, helps and commitment from teachers, especially our class the first class who completed IB DP. Thank you all of our IB DP teachers to bring us where we are and lead us to where we will go.

Last but not least, I would like to thank my family the most, especially my father who has flied from Korea to Vietnam 3 days ago. I knew early that my parents are sacrificing themselves to provide me with a better life and more appropriate human-being. My talents and everything I have achieved so far is a product of my parents’ dedication, sacrifice and love. Thank you so much.

Dear all of my beloved teachers in SNA school.

My name is Phan Ha Kim Ngan, one of your IB DP 2022 students. It’s my honor for me to give my thanks to you in November 20th for whatever you support me in my education. Even the time we learnt passed too fast, but the memories associated with SNA will never be faded. I appreciate your passion in teaching because you’re always trying to build the basic blocks for us until we are able to contribute to our society. One more time, I would like to thanks for your patient when instructing new knowledge to us. Happy Teachers Day, SNA !

SNA is the place where I spent my 4-year of high school studying. During that time, there were a lot of changes in the infrastructure and educational structure which was an improvement that created a good studying environment for students.

At SNA, I had a chance to study with devoted teachers and supportive teaching assistants who are always answering my questions and supporting me if I have any concerns. Moreover, with chemistry and physics labs, I can have fun activities like do experiments and build models which help me have a better understanding of the lessons.

Also, there is a diversity of students in the school besides Vietnamese students so me and my friends can share and exchange our culture with foreign students in many events that were organized in the school. I’m glad that I could study in a nice school and build beautiful memories with my friends and teachers here.

P/s: One of the best things is the elevators since I don’t need to walk upstairs after lunch

Hi!  My name is Thanh Truc (Jessica) and my brother is Gia Phuc (Joe).

My younger brother and I were students of SNA from 2011 to 2013.

My younger brother started at SNA as a Pre-school student until 1st grade. Meanwhile, I started there as a 5th grader until grade 7. At SNA, I learned a lot of knowledge from its two educational programs (the US program and the Vietnamese program), which provided us many skills.

 After the exams, the school organized a Field Trip to strengthen the teacher-student relationship.  We had many memorable memories after our outings together. And learned more life skills about nature and society.

The teachers and staff at SNA were always dedicated to the students. There were times when I did not understand the lesson in class, the teachers were willing to stay after school to guide me through the lessons and help me overcome my difficulties in learning English. The teacher’s love and dedication indeed made a great impact on me. Whenever I visit SNA, the teachers always give me a warm welcome.

 “After many years, I went back to my old school. I still remember that day vividly, the day we parted ways after so many emotional ups and downs. I still remember each footprint imprinted on the grass and the blue feelings drop on my shoulder.”

Individual behavior is not shaped by the family, but it forms where you call the school. The time that we spent at school not only focus on learning, and filling our minds with knowledge, but also time spend forming our character, obtaining various attitudes and imbibing basic principles of life. The basic traits of our personality are formed during our school days. To be honest, School of North America (SNA) successfully offered students a good academic program, as well as helpful activities to develop our skill such as critical thinking, responsibility and become a good leader.

Even though I only studied for one year at SNA but it gave me a bunch of unforgettable moment (friendship, events, etc…) I transferred to SNA when I was in 11th grade. A boy from a small town, SNA impressed me with the warm greetings of staff and I still remember Ms. Nu (a Geography teacher) and Mrs. Minh (a Physics teacher). At SNA, I found GUIDANCE, FRIENDSHIP, DISCIPLINE, and LOVE. Individual staff and teachers describe in one word “professional ethics.” Yes, that is true, I have witnessed a lot of images that teachers devoted to disabilities student. All teachers and staff not only do their duties, but they are also seen as a friend, a family member, they always listen, share, and help you whenever you need. (Love you so much Ms. Yen, Ms. Thanh, and Ms. Nu, thank you for supporting me and gave me lots of good experiences.) Talk about the dormitory, the accommodation is really comfortable which the furniture and tools are fully equipped for students. At SNA, they also have a guardian in each room to take care of everything for the individual student such as clothes, meals, etc… (Thank you Mr. Sau and Mrs. An who were tasked with taking care of me for a year.)  Save the best for last, being a SNA student, I was developed by 5 factors Effective Communicators, Collaborative Workers, Critical Thinkers, Life-long Learners, and Responsible Global Citizens Through its curriculum and learning environment, SNA wants to inspire and shaping students to ably face the challenges that are happening in the world around them. Overall, I would like to say thank you to all the teachers and staff who were helping and supporting me. Without it, there would not be me.

I am Thao Nguyen. I am a 2016 SNA graduate, and I am currently a student at Orange Coast College (OCC), USA. I am writing this letter to share some of my appreciations for SNA. I feel grateful for what SNA had contributed to me in education and leadership which prepared me to be successful in college and life. After graduating from SNA, I got to Orange Coast College which is the second largest community college in California. Besides being a full-time student trying to achieve a high GPA to transfer, I was a secretary of Advocacy Committee which is a group of student leaders who seek to protect the college’s interest as it relates to education policy, financial aid, and other legislative issues. I was elected by the students of OCC of 24,000 student to be the secretary of the Student Senate which is the legislative branch of the Student Government of Orange Coast College (SGOCC) and is responsible for writing and passing resolutions, student government policies, and approving financial allocations of $1.5 million budget to OCC clubs and programs. I also a board member of some clubs such as VP of International Student Fellowship, VP of Vietnamese Students Association, and financial director for an Accounting Society. Every year I received the scholarships and Leadership Award from my college. This is going to be my last semester at OCC, and I will transfer to one of the University of California in the Fall semester 2019.

Being a student and president of SNA’s Associated Student Body inspired me to be a good leader, good citizen, and have a good performance in academics. Therefore, after graduating from SNA and attending college, I felt that I have a good preparation to continue my journey to be successful in college and get involved in campus. I was lucky and proud to have the opportunity to study at SNA and be in the environment because SNA’s ASB, students, and faculties prepared and inspired me to learn, to improve, to maximize myself, and to be a better person

It has been almost three years since I graduated SNA. Time flies. This year, I have entered the second semester of my junior year. My name is Hara Kuh, a student of the class of 2016. I feel a little weird, but honorable to send this letter to my alma mater, today. Recalling my life in high school, I realize more, day by day, how blessed and encouraged I was by so many teachers and friends. I still know not how to repay my debt of gratitude to all my teachers, whose lessons motivated me to find enjoyment in those subjects until now. Most memorably, I was blessed to have Ms. Jennifer as my teacher, who was beside and helped me in so many ways since I was in grade eight until my graduation. Moreover, thanks to Mr. Philip for inspiring me to take English Language and Literature as my second major, along with my first major, International Studies. Life on campus is full of hustle and bustle, full of excitement, and solitude that occasionally follows along. I gained more independence as well as decision-making skills after entering my university. All the encouragement, as well as the love that I received in SNA, acted as a cornerstone for me to thrive through the difficulties I experienced.