Vu '23 Quynh (Vivian)

From: Ha Noi, Vietnam

Current Grade: 12

Entered SSM: Grade 9

Why did you choose to attend SSM?

VIVIAN: I came to a family friend's graduation here in 2018 and I remember thinking, "This place is beautiful. I want to go to school here." A year later, I was sitting in the Middle School gym attending Freshman Orientation!

How are classes/education different here than in your home country?

VIVIAN: The U.S. definitely gives me more choices in courses. I'm able to choose which subject I'm interested in and the level of advancement, while in Vietnam, I don't get a say. Back in my country, everyone in the same homeroom gets the exact same schedule, while at SSM, there's a variety of scheduling.

What has been your favorite class at SSM?

VIVIAN: My favorite classes are surprisingly some of my hardest classes. I love AP Chemistry with Mr. Bittenbender and Advanced Music Theory II with Dr. Downs! They are challenging for sure but it's the people that make them fun.

What is the most surprising/weirdest/ interesting thing about living in the U.S.?

VIVIAN: I find it interesting how sports play a very important role in almost everyone's life.

What are some of your favorite traditions/ customs from your culture?

VIVIAN: My favorite tradition has to be receiving red pocket money on Lunar New Year!

What has been the hardest adjustment you've had to make?

VIVIAN: Definitely being away from family and friends! The experience of a boarding environment makes up for it though!

What foods do you miss from home?

VIVIAN: I really miss bún chả, a Vietnamese dish of grilled pork and noodles, my favorite dish in the entire world. The dining hall actually had it last year during International Day!

What is your favorite American food?

VIVIAN: I love tater tots!

What has been your favorite thing about your experience as an international student?

VIVIAN: I love making friends around the globe. I find it very cool that I have people I know in countries I've visited or am planning on visiting.

What advice would you give to future international students at our School?

VIVIAN: It might be hard to fit in at first, but soon you will find your circle and your people. I recommend making friends in different COEs!

Why did you choose to attend SSM?

ADELINA: It was one of the schools with a vocal program, and I found it very interesting.