Looking at her petite stature, gentle smile, and slender hands, few would guess that Bao Anh (5CapeTown) possesses such remarkable “stamina” on her journey to conquering the piano. Earning the title of Salutatorian for the 9-year Intermediate program at the Vietnam National Academy of Music is a proud milestone, but for her, it is only the beginning of a long journey that demands discipline and persistence.
At the “Voices of the Hands” exhibition, Bao Anh moved teachers and friends to silence as she shared a painting of golden trophies and the thorny path behind her chosen career: “I heard that out of 60 students admitted to the Academy, only 12 actually graduate. That made me realize: there are no footprints of the lazy on the path to success. Only through effort can you succeed.”
Beyond her commitment to music, Bao Anh actively participates in school activities and is always ready to take on new roles. Growing up in a family that values knowledge, she was never forced into a specific mold but was empowered to make her own choices and take responsibility for them: “When I face difficulties, my family is always a foundation for listening and support, but the journey to the finish line must be walked by my own feet.”
Pursuing both intensive academics and professional music simultaneously, Bao Anh developed self-discipline early on. She proactively utilizes every moment of her day to complete her studies, maintaining total focus during her practice hours.
At Dewey, that journey is supported with flexibility and understanding. Teachers assist her so that her academic progress remains uninterrupted while respecting her personal pace of development. This support doesn’t lessen the challenge; rather, it provides her with the stability to pursue her choices.
Speaking about following one’s dreams, Bao Anh sent a message to her peers: “Even if you aren’t perfect yet, as long as you dare to be yourself, have your own opinions, and persistently pursue your dreams, you will find your own value.”
The image of this petite Salutatorian with such strong inner power is a vivid portrayal of the generation of students Dewey is nurturing—young people who are not only intellectually excellent but also possess the tenacity to chase their goals. Dewey believes that every student will become an empathetic individual who maintains their unique identity, transforming silent efforts into their own most brilliant symphony, confidently stepping out into the world as masters of the future.
Ms. Huong Chi – Class Teacher’s Reflection:
“In Bao Anh, I see an admirable sense of self-awareness. There are days she must leave school early for classes at the Conservatory, yet she always proactively contacts teachers to keep up with the lessons. The school’s support is merely supplementary; the core of Bao Anh’s success is her ability to self-regulate and her sense of responsibility toward her passion. She is proof that when a child is empowered with autonomy, they can produce results beyond expectations.”
