Lai Tan Nam, an alumnus of the English Language Faculty (K26NAB3), University of Languages and Social Sciences (ULSS), Duy Tan University, is a student who has always devoted himself wholeheartedly to his passions, dreams, and aspirations. Nam's youth represents the most beautiful and fulfilling chapter—living to the fullest, freely pursuing his interests, striving in his studies, and realizing his dreams. What makes it even more special is his contribution of youthful energy to achievements, academic excellence, and volunteer work benefiting the community and society. An outstanding student with many impressive accomplishments—from an IELTS score of 8.0 to competition awards—Nam shares interesting insights into his academic journey and passions below.
Lai Tan Nam, alumnus of the English Language Faculty, K26NAB3, ULSS, Duy Tan University
Q: Hello Tan Nam, could you tell us a bit about yourself?
Nam: My name is Lai Tan Nam, born and raised in Quang Binh Province. I am an alumnus of the English Translation and Interpretation major and am currently preparing to begin my master's program. I am very passionate about language learning and aspire to enhance my knowledge and skills to become an expert in this field.
Q: Do you have any other hobbies or passions besides learning English? How have these activities influenced your studies?
Nam: Besides learning English, I am passionate about playing the piano and drawing. Playing the piano helps me focus, improves my time management skills, and cultivates patience. Drawing helps me develop my observation and creative abilities. Both passions help me relax and motivate my studies.
Q: What competitions have you participated in, and what awards have you won? Which competition left the deepest impression on you and why?
Nam: I have participated in many competitions such as the English Olympiad, English Speech Contest, INFSP competition, and Student Scientific Research competition. I have achieved awards including Third Prize in the English Olympiad, First Prize in the INFSP competition, First Prize in the English Speech Contest, and Third Prize in the Student Scientific Research competition. The competition that left the deepest impression on me was the English Speech Contest. The reason this contest impressed me is that it was the first time I stood before a large audience and presented my thoughts in English. I learned a great deal about presentation skills, confident communication, and the importance of thorough preparation. This contest helped me become more confident and develop my language skills, which has had a very positive impact on my daily studies and communication.
Q: What experiences have you had participating in student exchange activities? What did you find most beneficial from these activities?
Nam: I have participated in many student exchange activities such as the Blue Ladder Project and Learning Express exchange program. A memorable experience was when I joined a Learning Express trip to a small craft village in Hoi An with Singaporean students. This helped me understand more about the lives of local people and learn many valuable lessons from them. What I found most beneficial from these activities is the ability to communicate and work in teams. Thanks to these activities, I have developed my communication skills, listening abilities, and sharpness in problem-solving.
Nam participating in the Blue Ladder Project 2023
Nam participating in the Learning Express student exchange program
Q: What difficulties did you face while learning English, and how did you overcome them?
Nam: One of the biggest difficulties I encountered when learning English was a lack of motivation. To overcome this, I set clear goals, combined learning with personal interests such as watching movies and listening to English music, joined study groups, and rewarded myself whenever I achieved small goals. These approaches helped me maintain motivation and continue improving my English.
Q: How did you prepare to achieve an IELTS score of 8.0? What study methods did you find effective?
Nam: To achieve my goal of IELTS 8.0, I created a detailed study plan and consistently followed it. One effective study method I applied was practicing listening to English daily by watching videos on YouTube. I also focused on each IELTS skill—practicing speaking by joining English clubs, practicing reading by reading articles on reputable websites, and practicing writing by writing essays and having teachers correct them. Thanks to this study method, I significantly improved my English ability and achieved an IELTS score of 8.0.
Q: Before we end our conversation, what advice would you give to other students who are learning English and aspiring to achieve high results like you?
Nam: Believe in your abilities and be patient with the learning process. Achieving high results is not easy, but if you are persistent and make efforts, success will come to you. You are young people full of passion and potential. Always cherish the opportunity to learn and never stop striving. Knowledge and skills are the most important assets on the path to success.
We hope these insights will not only inspire other students but also serve as motivation for them to continuously strive in their studies and in life.
(Vo Minh Dieu)
