From a girl who didn't dare to believe in herself to an outstanding student in the Tourism Department.

Some journeys don't begin with advantages, but with a question many young people have asked themselves: "Am I good enough?"

On her first day at Dai Nam University, Nguyen Mai Lan, a student majoring in Tourism and Travel Service Management in the Faculty of Tourism, also carried that same anxiety. The girl who once worried she would struggle to keep up with her peers has now become a leading figure in the Faculty, achieving a GPA of 9.76/10, consistently holding the title of Outstanding Student, winning First Prize in the Hospitality in Practice 2026 competition, Second Prize in the Vietnam-India Cultural Exchange Program 2026, and being elected by her classmates to serve as the Youth Union Secretary.

What makes Mai Lan stand out is not just her achievements, but the way she has gradually overcome the limitations she set for herself.

The turning point begins with the decision to change yourself.

Mai Lan still remembers the feeling of her first days at university. A new environment, many dynamic classmates, many opportunities but also a lot of pressure, making her wonder many times if she was capable enough to keep up with everyone.

Instead of succumbing to self-doubt, Mai Lan chose to change starting with the smallest things. She prepared for each class, proactively communicated with lecturers, boldly asked questions when she didn't understand, actively participated in class discussions, and registered for academic activities organized by the Faculty. Each time she dared to raise her hand to speak, each time she proactively took on a new task, it was another step she took out of her comfort zone.

Looking back, Mai Lan believes the biggest change wasn't her grades, but rather her growing belief in her own abilities.

First scholarship - a reward for courage

At the end of her first semester, Mai Lan received an Outstanding Scholarship. For many, it was simply a reward for academic achievement. For Mai Lan, it was a milestone that helped her believe her efforts were on the right track.

From that milestone, she maintained her title as an Outstanding Student in all semesters, with her highest semester GPA reaching 9.76/10. Alongside her studies, Mai Lan actively participated in professional competitions. First Prize in the Hospitality in Practice 2026 competition and Second Prize in the Vietnam-India Cultural Exchange Program 2026 are achievements that recognize her proactive learning, skill development, and fearless spirit in facing challenges.

Behind every achievement are countless hours of study, meticulous preparation, and unwavering perseverance toward their chosen goals.

Growing up starts from seemingly small things.

Not only excelling academically, Mai Lan was also trusted by her classmates to be elected as the Youth Union Secretary. For her, this is not simply a position, but an opportunity to learn how to listen, connect, and work together with the group.

It was through her involvement in student union activities, faculty programs, and university initiatives that she honed her communication skills, organizational abilities, teamwork skills, and sense of responsibility. According to Mai Lan, these skills will be crucial assets for someone working in tourism – a field that always places people and customer experiences at the center.

The most valuable thing is finding a better version of yourself.

Mai Lan chose Dai Nam University because of its application-oriented training program, and she said that what she received was much more than just professional knowledge. It was the support of the lecturers in the Faculty of Tourism – who were always ready to guide, share, and encourage students to boldly try new things.

Thanks to that environment, the once shy girl gradually became more proactive in her studies, more confident when working with a team, and ready to take on roles she never thought she could do before.

Perhaps the greatest value of college years lies not in becoming the best, but in finding a better version of yourself after each experience.

Unleash your identity through the simple things.

Currently a second-year student, Mai Lan aims to continue accumulating practical experience in the hospitality industry to prepare for her future career. For her, a proactive attitude, a willingness to learn, and a positive mindset will always be the foundation for sustainable development.

Mai Lan always believed: "Live like a flame – not only to warm yourself, but also to illuminate and spread warmth to those around you."

Nguyen Mai Lan's journey wasn't written by a single breakthrough moment, but rather by many small changes made every day. From a girl who once didn't dare believe in herself, she has gradually affirmed her abilities through perseverance, a learning spirit, and an unceasing desire for self-improvement.

This is also the spirit of "Unleash Your Identity – Illuminate Your Journey" that Dai Nam University wishes to spread: every student can create their own unique mark, starting with daring to step beyond their own limitations.