Every time you pass by the University and Career Counseling Office at Dewey, it’s not hard to catch sight of a dedicated teacher deeply engaged in conversation with students. Even on Saturdays and Sundays, the lights in that room remain on – the familiar figure still there, offering last-minute advice before an important competition. Devoted, humble, and approachable – these are the words TDSers often use to describe Mr. Tung, University and Career Counseling Counselor at The Dewey Schools Tay Ho Tay.
Though he has a modest appearance, Mr. Tung always radiates positivity, his warm smile ever-present. Having spent more than 20 years as a journalist and editor for Hoa Hoc Tro and Vietnam Student newspapers, he has built a rich foundation of life experience and a deep empathy for young people.
“As a career guidance teacher, understanding each student’s abilities and personality and becoming someone they can trust and confide in are key to helping them shape their futures and choose fields of study that suit both their capabilities and passions,” shared Ms. Nguyen Minh Hien, parent of a 12Detroit student.
Mr. Tung’s lessons rarely start with textbook knowledge. Instead, they often begin with real-life experiences and everyday stories. His sincere and gentle way of speaking – never once raising his voice – has made him a close and trusted friend to many TDSers. To his students, Mr. Tung is a nonjudgmental listener and a supportive companion – someone who helps them discover their own path and truly explore who they are.
TDS alumna Huyen Anh (currently a student at VinUni, formerly a student at The Dewey Schools Tay Ho Tay) shared, “I was always by my side throughout every competition. Even when the results weren’t great, he encouraged me not to give up. Thanks to his support, I also came to understand myself better.” Winning a 100% scholarship in Psychology at VinUni is a “sweet fruit” born of the shared journey between Mr. Tung and Huyen Anh during her time at The Dewey Schools.
As for Truong An (10Edmonton), he had never taken part in any competitions throughout middle school. But thanks to Mr. Tung’s simple yet powerful message “Just do it”—Truong An gradually stepped out of his comfort zone and began to participate in entrepreneurship contests. By Grade 10, he had successfully conquered the Vietnam Business Innovation Challenge (VBIC) and was awarded a 50% scholarship by Fulbright University Vietnam.
Behind these accomplishments, Mr. Tung remains humble. He has never claimed to be the best counselor, but he firmly believes, “I may not be the one who helps students get into the most prestigious universities, but I believe I’m doing the most meaningful work – helping them become better each day, grow more confident, and discover the best version of themselves.”
For him, every day spent walking alongside students is a valuable opportunity to listen, to learn, and to plant seeds of change through even the smallest conversations. Because to Mr. Tung, career guidance is not about giving directions but about opening paths together with students. With the heart of a journalist, the spirit of a teacher, and a lifelong learner’s mindset, he continues – quietly yet powerfully – to help unlock the doors to the future and co-author the unique stories of every new generation.
