From “Introvert” to “International student” – A journey of pushing beyond limits to reach the study abroad dream

“Compared to the old version of myself in middle school, a quiet girl who often stayed in the background during group activities, I can feel how much I’ve changed.” – Nguyen Nhu Thao, a 12th-grade student at SenTia School, couldn’t hide her emotions as she looked back on her remarkable three-year high school journey.Few would guess that behind the girl who has just won a prestigious CAD 80,000 scholarship (equivalent to 1.5 billion VND), along with multiple other scholarships from top Canadian universities, was once a Nhu Thao who trembled whenever speaking in public, hesitated to join group activities, and kept herself in her comfort zone.

The turning point in Thao’s growth came when she decided to step out of that comfort zone upon entering SenTia. As a student at SenTia, Thao made her mark through academic excellence and a personal growth journey filled with determination, proving that true change from within can unlock big opportunities.

The open and supportive learning environment at SenTia provided Thao with the space she needed to overcome her limitations. From a quiet girl, Thao gradually grew into someone willing to take on leadership roles in group projects, confidently express her ideas, and proactively plan for her future. She identified three key factors that helped her stand out in the Canadian university application process: active learning and critical thinking development through group discussions and research projects; a fully English-language, internationally-aligned curriculum that eased her transition into foreign assessment systems; and dedicated support from teachers in building a strong academic profile.

With a passion for learning and a persistent spirit, Thao has earned several notable achievements: Third Prize in English at the Olympic Competition in Cultural Subjects for grades 10 and 11 of the Bac-Nam Tu Liem High School, a Gold Medal at the international round of the Owlypia competition, and participation in extracurricular projects such as the “Cat Canh” study abroad initiative and the PAM science project. Her sweetest reward is a list of Canadian universities offering admission and generous scholarships:

– University of Regina (International Student of Distinction Scholarship) – CAD 80,000 / 4 years (~1.5 billion VND) (#25 in Best Global Universities in Canada, U.S. News 2025)

– Trent University – CAD 74,000 / 4 years (~1.38 billion VND) (#35 in Best Global Universities in Canada, U.S. News 2025)

– Simon Fraser University (#14 in Best Global Universities in Canada, U.S. News 2025)

– University of Manitoba (#15 in Best Global Universities in Canada, U.S. News 2025)

– University of Alberta (#5 in Best Global Universities in Canada, U.S. News 2025)

– Ontario Tech University (#28 in Best Global Universities in Canada, U.S. News 2025)

– University of Lethbridge (#37 in Best Global Universities in Canada, U.S. News 2025)

With an impressive scholarship portfolio in Biochemistry, few people know that Thao’s passion for this field began with an inspiring field trip. “Back in 10th grade, our school organized a trip to Cuc Phuong National Park. I was amazed by the park’s biodiversity – birds, langurs, bats, snails, fish, and countless rare species,” Thao shared enthusiastically. That real-world encounter ignited her love for science and curiosity, leading her to pursue Biochemistry – a field that dives deep into the molecular mechanisms of life.

Wishing Nhu Thao continued courage and self-direction as she embarks on a new chapter, where a world of opportunities awaits exploration!