“Through every experience, I learned how to learn independently, make my own decisions, and understand myself better. Every time I tried something new, I discovered more about myself and what I wanted to explore in the future.”
These words from Lại Khôi Minh, an alum of the Adventure International Program, capture one of the key takeaways from the “Adventure talks – Future Ready” seminar. A high school diploma can open the door to university. But making the right choices and moving forward with confidence also requires students to understand themselves, navigate challenges, and take an active role in preparing for what comes next.
Hosted by The Dewey Schools in partnership with The Mount Vernon School (MVS) – recognized among the Top 10 Most Innovative Schools in the United States in 2017 – the seminar offered families a closer look at how learning experiences can shape students’ journeys. MVS representatives Leah and Connie shared how Design Thinking is incorporated into MVS Online and the Dual Diploma Program, giving students opportunities to learn through experience, explore different ways to solve problems, and refine their ideas when something does not work as expected.
This approach is also at the heart of Dewey’s Adventure Program. Throughout high school, students build their academic knowledge while working on Design–Engineering (MDE) projects, taking part in community activities, and gaining hands-on experience. With each new challenge, they gain a clearer understanding of their strengths, interests, and what they may want to pursue.
Lê Minh Hằng, mother of Đặng Nguyệt Anh, also shared how much her daughter had grown after completing the Adventure Program, particularly during her Grade 12 year studying directly in the United States. These new experiences helped Nguyệt Anh become more confident, broaden her perspective, and feel ready to take on new challenges.
The seminar also gave parents a clearer picture of how Adventure students can prepare for university. Students have opportunities to earn SAT, IELTS, and AP certifications, receive the MVS–MOET Dual High School Diploma, and build a “Personal Career Guidance Portfolio.” These experiences and qualifications can help broaden their options when applying to leading universities in Vietnam and around the world.
Another opportunity introduced at the seminar was MVS Summer Camp 2027 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, for students in Grades 6–9. Students will take part in innovation workshops, cultural exchange activities, and visits to universities such as Georgia Tech and Emory University, giving them a closer look at global academic environments.
There is no single formula for every student’s future. What matters is that with each project, challenge, and new experience, students come to understand themselves a little better and gain more confidence in making their own choices. The future, then, is not a destination waiting to be reached. It is a journey students gradually shape through their own experiences and decisions.
