“Etched destiny”: Thuy Trang’s unique essay & life-changing study abroad journey

“Every decision in life leaves a permanent mark on wood.” This is how Nguyễn Thùy Trang, a Grade 12A student at SenTia, began her compelling scholarship essay. An opening that reflects not only her writing style but also a life philosophy she lives by: to be brave, to embrace mistakes, and to shape her path continuously.

Trang likens her journey of personal growth to the four stages of woodblock carving: starting from the “blank block” of childhood, through the “first cuts” of rebellious adolescence, to the stage of “detailed carving” where she found her inner voice, and finally the moment of “printing the image”—a time of reflection and pride in a piece of work filled with personal imprints.

This powerful metaphor became the soul of her scholarship essay, helping her gain admission to multiple prestigious universities:

– RMIT Melbourne (#123 in QS World University Rankings 2025), with a 25% scholarship for Business majors

– University of Adelaide (#82 QS), with a 30% scholarship

– Georgia State University (Top 200 U.S. News 2025), with a $16,000/year scholarship

She also received acceptance letters from several other well-known institutions in both the U.S. and Australia.

What makes Trang’s journey even more remarkable is a bold, last-minute decision: shifting her dream destination from the U.S. to Australia. “After a long period of reflection and research, I realized that Australia aligns better with me, from the learning style and living environment to the variety of opportunities to work while studying,” Trang shared.

With her Business scholarship, Trang will pursue a Marketing major at RMIT Melbourne, a decision that resonates with her personality and passion. “I want to apply my creativity to more practical fields in the future. Marketing is not only creative but also demands originality, especially in each communication campaign.”

In addition to her inspiring story, Thùy Trang boasts an impressive academic profile: Third Prize in the 2023 District-level English Proficiency Competition, Bronze Medal in the Owlypia Global Competition (Science category), Silver Medal in the HIPPO English Language Olympiad… Beyond academics, Trang actively pursued her passion for marketing and communications by taking on multiple leadership roles and gaining hands-on experience:

– President and Head of Communications at Y Văn, a fashion club where she led initiatives to share her passion for fashion and spread meaningful artistic messages to the community.

– Head of Marketing at SenTia DECA, where she built and managed long-term marketing plans for the club’s fundraising events.

– Intern at The World & Vietnam Report, a press agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Trang did not start her study abroad journey early, nor did she plan it perfectly from the beginning. She only began seriously preparing in Grade 11, with many important changes made in the final stage. But thanks to her determined mindset—and the personalized support provided by SenTia—she was able to conquer her goals with confidence.

“My teachers and friends at SenTia have supported me a lot. Especially Ms. Hằng, my homeroom teacher, who helped me grow not only academically but also in how I understand myself and view the world,” Trang said, with heartfelt gratitude.

Success does not always come from following a set path—it often comes from having the courage to carve your own. Just like the woodblock Trang described in her essay: perhaps not flawless, but authentic, deeply personal, and beautifully her own.

With a bold decision to choose Australia and a major that truly reflects her passion, we believe Thùy Trang will continue carving her life’s masterpiece—with strong, confident strokes. This is only the first chapter of what promises to be a vibrant and inspiring journey ahead.