Long Than, a 2018 graduate of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme at UNIS Hanoi, is now a thriving PhD candidate at Stanford University.
Long's passion for science blossomed at UNIS Hanoi. He has many fond memories of the school. "Mr. Fleming's physics and Ms. Bechard's chemistry classes were truly fun and engaging. Thanks to their guidance and the support of our dedicated counsellors, I discovered a fascination with chemical engineering, a field that allows me to delve deeper into what I love every day."
The rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum at UNIS Hanoi played a pivotal role in Long's success. "The IB classes provided excellent preparation for university," he shares. "Many college courses built upon the concepts I learned in the IB programme, just at a faster pace. Being exposed to these concepts early in high school allowed me to adapt easily and excel in my classes."
Following his undergraduate at Vanderbilt University, Long is now in his second year at Stanford University and has officially secured his position as a PhD candidate. His research focuses on developing new materials for the semiconductor industry, a field with the potential to revolutionise technology.
UNIS’s values of curiosity and community have served Long well. He emphasises the importance of research experience and strong recommendation letters for students aiming to pursue doctoral programmes at top universities. "Demonstrating your research proficiency is crucial," he advises. "Actively participating in research projects and having published papers can significantly enhance your application."
UNIS Hanoi’s emphasis on overall well-being and holistic self-development has also had an impact on Long. He challenges the stereotypical image of a PhD student as someone who spends all their time buried in books and research labs. "Studying something you're passionate about can be incredibly fulfilling," he asserts. "It's not just about your interests or activities, but also about the confidence you have in pursuing them. That confidence is what makes your journey truly cool."