From a dream of becoming a police officer to a new journey: The story of a female student with a score of 28.58 who took a different path.

28.58 points in Block C – a score high enough for many students to open the doors to their dream universities. But for Ban Thi Niem, it was a moment of both pride and heartbreak. She was just half a point short of achieving her dream of becoming a police officer, a goal she had pursued throughout high school. From that unexpected setback, Niem made a difficult decision: to switch to Public Relations at Dai Nam University (DNU), starting her 18-year-old journey anew in a very different way.

Student Ban Thi Niem - Valedictorian of the K18 Public Relations major, Dai Nam University (DNU)

When the plan comes to an end and character is put to the test.

Throughout her high school years, the image of a dignified, disciplined, and proud police officer in his blue uniform was a clear goal in Niem's mind. Therefore, on the day she received her university entrance exam results, even a single misplaced point was enough to cause her her first major shock. Disappointment, disillusionment, confusion – Niem experienced it all. But instead of dwelling on regret, she asked herself a very mature question: Should she continue to grieve over what was lost, or bravely embark on a new journey?

A seemingly "random" turn of events led Niem to the field of Public Relations – a field that demands flexibility, creativity, and constant adaptability. No more familiar patterns, no more pre-determined paths. And Dai Nam University became the place Niem chose to start anew, with all the courage of an 18-year-old.

"Turning around" but not going backward: The top student in Public Relations and a breakthrough in her youth.

Entering university, Niềm didn't allow herself to just go through the motions. This young woman, born in the 2000s, chose to study seriously, live life to the fullest, and seize every opportunity to grow. As a result, she won scholarships for four consecutive semesters, becoming the valedictorian of the K18 Public Relations program. In class, Niềm is a driven student. Outside of class, she takes on the role of class secretary – connecting the group, spreading a sense of responsibility and positive energy.

Niệm's youth was also filled with various extracurricular activities: from volunteering and environmental protection to supporting major events of the faculty and the university. For her, university was not just a textbook, but a series of real-life experiences to learn and grow.

Studying PR doesn't just mean studying PR.

Looking solely at her academic record, many might assume Niệm is a studious student. However, outside of class, she chooses to learn through experience. Niệm has held positions such as Head of Content for the DNU Entrepreneurship & Innovation Club; and participated in the organizing committees of Job Fair 2025, Social Innovation Launch 2025, etc. In each role, she clearly demonstrated organizational skills, creativity, and team leadership abilities.

In particular, Niệm is the Team Leader for designing traditional Tay ethnic costumes in the Faculty of Communication, and together with her team, she won Second Prize at the Eco Fashion Show Season 3. From academia to art, from event organization to content creation, that "turnaround" years ago has led her to a more dynamic, multifaceted, and confident version of herself.

Dai Nam University - an environment where setbacks become stepping stones.

Looking back, Niềm believes that the most important thing is not just personal effort, but also the environment. At Dai Nam University, she had the opportunity to try, make mistakes, and learn from them; she received close guidance, honest feedback, and practical direction from her teachers.

“What impressed me most about studying at Dai Nam University was the quality of training in the Faculty of Communication and the very close support from the lecturers. The teachers are not only highly skilled in their fields but also always care for and support students. Thanks to them, I have developed many skills, become more proactive, confident, and mature.”

For Niềm, the school is not a closed space, but an "open" one – a place where students are listened to and given opportunities to try their hand at various roles. Without imposing or rigid structures, teachers help students identify their own abilities, thereby developing along a suitable path.

When a turn opens up the right path

The story of Ban Thi Niem shows that a plan coming to an end doesn't necessarily mean failure. Sometimes, unexpected turns can help us find a path that suits us better.

In an environment that respects choice, encourages experimentation, and focuses on learners' abilities, Niềm transformed her past setback into a stepping stone for her growth. Her youth is not measured by a closed door, but by the courage to change direction and an educational space open enough for young people to find the best version of themselves.