Top 8 Best Personal Essays in English and Vietnamese

Dear Yale University Admissions Team,

My name is Nguyễn Quang Hưng, and I am a student at Hanoi - Amsterdam High School.

Through the announcement from my school, I have learned that your institution is offering scholarships for international students. Therefore, I am writing this essay with the hope of becoming one of the lucky students who will be able to study at your esteemed university.

As I have learned, Yale University is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States. It has been home to countless renowned researchers, scientists, and famous personalities from around the world. After reading about the university’s remarkable achievements, I have always dreamed of learning and developing in such an excellent environment.

Upon reviewing the criteria for admission, I believe I meet all the requirements. First and foremost, I am currently attending one of Hanoi's most prestigious high schools, which has been the birthplace of many brilliant students and has provided valuable talent to the country. Hence, I confidently assert that I am one of the top students. My average grade point is above 9.0, and I have achieved a perfect score in Biology. I have also participated in and won first and second prizes in both the city and national science competitions. Notably, I won a silver medal at the 2021 International Biology Olympiad. I believe these accomplishments will significantly enhance my application for the Yale School of Medicine.

To prepare for my future studies abroad, I have diligently worked on improving my English grammar and communication skills. Currently, I hold a language certificate from the British Council with a score of 8.5, and I am fluent in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English. I regularly engage in online conversations with friends from around the world. Additionally, I scored 1520 on the SAT exam, further proving my academic potential.

Outside of academics, I am actively involved in volunteer work and social activities. I regularly participate in volunteer work at the SOS Children’s Village every Saturday and Sunday. Here, I teach, organize activities, and interact with the children. Volunteering has taught me many valuable life lessons and experiences. I also take part in my school's arts and sports clubs, where I have achieved some notable accomplishments.

For a long time, I have dreamed of becoming a skilled doctor. Knowing that Yale is one of the most prestigious universities in the world for medical studies, I have always hoped to study there. I am confident that with my continuous efforts and the excellent learning environment at Yale, I can fulfill my passionate dream. If my application is successful and I am granted admission, I will strictly adhere to all the rules and regulations of your university.

I look forward to receiving a response from your institution.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration!

Hanoi, [Date]

My name is Ngoc Trang, and I was born and raised in Hanoi. Currently, I am in my first year studying Computer Science at a prestigious university in Hanoi. I have one older brother who is three years ahead of me. My father is a journalist and author, while my mother stays at home, taking care of the household. I consider myself a friendly person, a thoughtful thinker, and adaptable. I have a wide range of interests, such as listening to music, reading novels, and watching movies. I particularly enjoy reading love stories and suspense thrillers, especially in English, as I aim to improve my language skills. I also love spending time with friends and traveling. Professionally, I dream of becoming an Animator and Graphic Designer. However, there are many other career paths I am interested in. Animation, for example, takes a long time to study and requires immense patience and hard work. I am determined to face these challenges and make my dreams come true. Right now, I focus on enjoying life, staying true to myself, and pursuing the values, dreams, and goals that I hold dear.

Dear Management of the Thái Bình Heritage Site,

I am Nguyễn Văn Toàn, a student in Class G at Phụ Dực High School in Thái Bình.

I learned about the Volunteer Club and its role in organizing local festivals from one of its members. My main goal for joining is to learn, contribute my time, and help organize, promote, and introduce visitors to the historical landmarks of our area.

As a sociable and friendly person, I am confident in my communication skills and public speaking. I have a strong passion for serving the community, and I am eager to offer my time to support local development through volunteer work.

Currently, I am studying Literature and am quite familiar with writing introductions. If I am accepted into the club, I would be happy to write content for event introductions, rules, guidelines, and visitor instructions. I have been active in other clubs at school, so I am confident I will excel at the tasks assigned to me by the club’s leadership.

I promise to follow the club's rules and adhere to the expectations of the community!

Thank you for considering my application!

Dear Board of Directors at Seville University,

My name is Nguyễn Thu H, a third-year Tourism student from the Faculty of Spanish at Hanoi University, Hanoi City.

Through a recommendation from my professors, I have learned about the opportunity for a one-year exchange scholarship at Seville University. I am incredibly excited and quickly writing this letter to express my strong desire to apply. I have heard that your university is one of the top institutions in Spain, renowned for its tourism programs, and I believe studying there would be an invaluable opportunity for me to gain the best experiences in the field.

During my studies at Hanoi University, I have been described as an active, friendly, and approachable student by both my professors and peers. Therefore, I am confident that studying in a new academic environment, interacting with new professors and friends, will allow me to adapt quickly and learn new things.

For the past three years, my GPA has consistently been excellent (3.85), which has allowed me to earn several academic scholarships. With this record, I am confident I will excel and achieve great results during my time at your esteemed institution.

I commit to adhering to all the rules and requirements set by your university!

Thank you for your attention to my application. I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration.

Dear Dean of Moscow State University (MGU),

My name is Trần Hà Linh.

I recently came across information on your website regarding scholarships for international students, and I am writing this essay in hopes of being considered for this valuable opportunity.

If anyone were to ask why I chose to study in Russia, I would undoubtedly say: "Russia is a country I love and have always longed to visit." Since I was young, my parents, who both studied in Russia, have shared their experiences and stories about life there. It is also where they met and fell in love. Thus, Russia holds a special place in my heart as a beautiful and romantic country. I dream of hearing the song 'Katyusha' in person and seeing the Winter Palace with my own eyes. Most importantly, I am eager to study and conduct research at MGU, one of Russia's most prestigious universities.

After reviewing the admission requirements, I believe I meet the necessary criteria. I am currently studying Literature at a specialized school in Northern Vietnam. Despite focusing on the humanities, I strive to maintain a balanced academic approach and perform well in all subjects. Additionally, I have participated in and achieved high rankings in national and provincial literature competitions. To prepare for my future studies abroad, I have dedicated myself to learning both Russian and English. My proficiency in Russian and English is currently at TRKI-1 and IELTS 6.5, respectively. Regular communication with native speakers online has enhanced my speaking and listening skills.

As the saying goes, "Learning is closely linked to practice." I also actively engage in social activities, especially during summer vacations. I volunteer in rural areas in Northern Vietnam, where I help with waste cleanup and organize free tutoring sessions. Occasionally, I participate in summer camps, which have broadened my social skills and increased my confidence.

I have a deep passion for literature, often reading classic works such as "War and Peace," "Gone with the Wind," "The Grapes of Wrath," and "Dream of the Red Chamber." However, I am always eager to learn more and grow. As the old saying goes, "Travel broadens the mind," and I hope to study at your university’s Literature Department. I am confident that, with the guidance of your esteemed professors, I will gain a wealth of knowledge. Furthermore, I plan to pursue a Master's degree at MGU, if eligible.

Regardless of the challenges ahead, I am ready to face them. I promise to abide by all rules and regulations set by the university.

I look forward to receiving your response.

Hanoi, October 27, 2022

Trần Hà Linh