Looking back on my high school years, what has shaped me the most was not only exams or grades, but also my experience working on research project at GSJ.
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Before this project, I had participated in several smaller research activities, but mostly at an introductory level. It was only through hands-on experimental research that I began to understand the level of persistence and pressure that laboratory work requires.
To optimize the product, my team continuously tested different conditions, including strip-drying temperatures and gold nanoparticle incubation times. During some stages, we spent multiple sessions assembling dozens to hundreds of test kits, followed by spectral measurements and result evaluations. Although the repetitive nature of the work could sometimes be demanding, it also taught me how to stay focused and work more systematically.
Throughout the process, I received significant support from the teachers and mentors at GSJ. From shaping the research direction and refining the procedure to providing technical guidance during experiments, their support motivated me to stay committed to the project. Being introduced to research early on and having clear guidance also helped me feel more confident when presenting my academic journey during university applications.
What I found most meaningful was how scientific research transformed learning from something purely theoretical into a practical experience. Instead of only studying concepts from textbooks, I had the opportunity to test hypotheses directly through real data and experimental results.
By the end of this journey, what I gained was not only a completed research project, but also stronger working skills, better time management, and a more proactive mindset as I prepare for university life ahead.
Do Hoang Minh Tue
Nearly US$400,000 in scholarships from leading universities worldwide (NUS, UVA, UGA, UConn, USF, University of Melbourne, VinUniversity, ...)
