Beginning his journey at Dewey in Grade 10, Nguyễn Trung Kiên (12Denver) stepped into a new environment filled with uncertainty. His previous school life had followed a familiar routine: going to school and returning home, rarely participating in extracurricular activities, and often hesitating before new experiences. At the time, Kiên had never imagined that this new environment would open the door to an entirely different path.
“Cut!” “You’re still too stiff.” “Let’s try again!” These were the phrases Trung Kiên heard most often during a filming session in Grade 10. With each failed take, he grew more flustered and less natural. The first time he stood on stage to run for the Dewey Student Council, he could not hide his nervousness and anxiety before hundreds of students. Yet just three years later, the young man who once feared the camera and trembled before an audience had completely transformed. Confidently hosting events, delivering speeches, and performing on major stages, today’s version of Trung Kiên—one who dares to think, dares to act, and dares to shine—has been shaped by countless experiential building blocks.
In Grade 10, Kiên stepped outside his comfort zone to apply for the position of Phó President of the Dewey Student Council (DSC). Although he was appointed vice president, he did not lose heart. His time with the DSC brought many memorable firsts: his first time on stage, his first experience organizing events, and his first opportunity to lead a collective. He practiced speaking in front of a mirror, proactively researched presentation skills on YouTube, and gradually built confidence. Regular participation in project-based learning at Dewey also helped him grow more comfortable presenting ideas, communicating, and speaking publicly. The reward came in Grade 12, when Kiên successfully assumed the role of DSC President.
If his journey with the DSC helped him break free from the cocoon of safety, music taught him invaluable lessons in listening and growing as a leader. Mr. Minh Kiên, a music teacher, shared that in the early days of forming the school band, Trung Kiên was a strong-willed young man with a pronounced ego. Only through managing and operating the group did he come to understand that true leadership requires harmonizing diverse personalities. Over time, Kiên became more humble, more willing to learn, and ready to step back to support his teammates.
That same spirit defines his presidency of the DSC this academic year. Minh Ngọc (12Austin), a DSC member, shared that she feels Kiên’s passion, dedication, and meticulousness in every event. Beyond being a leader, he consistently spreads positive energy to those around him.
At Dewey, Kiên learned to believe in himself, to listen deeply, and to transform opportunities into meaningful contributions to the community. Alongside his strong academic achievements, he has been admitted to more than 14 universities worldwide, including Hong Kong Polytechnic University—ranked among the Top 54 universities globally. Looking ahead, Kiên aspires to pursue a major in Electrical and Computer Engineering. With his willingness to embrace challenges and continually push beyond his limits, Dewey believes he will carry both knowledge and kindness into the community in his own distinctive way.
