The story of Demy Haekins, an international student at VNU-International School and the Consolation Prize winner at the 18th Student Research Conference, is a testament to the spirit of courage and self-confidence. It highlights an international learning environment that continuously supports students throughout their academic development journey.
For Demy, winning the Consolation Prize at the Student Research Conference was a memorable milestone in his academic journey at International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. It was not only recognition of the effort made by Demy and his team members, but also an especially meaningful achievement as this was their very first time participating in a student research competition.
Demy Haekins celebrating the milestone achievement with his team at the 18th Student Research Conference.
Sharing his feelings about the award, Demy described the achievement as a “crown” for the effort his team had devoted to the research project. At first, he did not expect that he and his teammates would go that far, as it was their first experience in student research. However, the result brought great joy, gratitude, and pride to Demy and the whole research team.
As an international student, Demy’s journey at VNU-International School began with certain challenges. Arriving later than many of his peers, he initially felt like an outsider, as if he had “come late to the party” when friendships and social groups had already been formed. However, the friendliness and openness of VNU-IS students, together with the support of the international student community, helped Demy gradually adapt, build confidence, and find a learning environment where he could grow and thrive.
Demy’s involvement in student research started with encouragement from his friends. Seeing many of his peers taking part in research and hearing that it would be a valuable academic experience, he decided to give it a try. From an initial idea, Demy reached out to several international students, suggested forming a research team, and received positive responses from everyone. From there, the group began their journey of exploring, developing, and completing the research project.
The active support from the VNU-IS student community helped Demy quickly overcome early cultural and social barriers.
During the research process, Demy and his team faced several challenges, especially language barriers, delayed access to information, and coordination in a new academic setting. At times, the team received messages or instructions later than expected due to language differences, which created pressure during the research process. However, Demy shared that the School, lecturers, and research supervisors provided timely support, guidance, and encouragement, helping the team access information more effectively.
According to Demy, this support clearly reflected the dedication and strong commitment of VNU-International School to students’ academic journeys. Beyond providing information, lecturers and supervisors also offered encouragement and motivation, helping the team maintain their confidence throughout the research process.
Academic research requires not only knowledge and methodology, but also a great deal of confidence… Confidence and one’s personal voice are essential parts of the research journey.
One of Demy’s most memorable experiences was standing before the panel to defend the research project. When he was asked, “Why is your research important?”, instead of giving a perfectly prepared academic answer, Demy spoke sincerely about why his team had chosen the topic and why it was a meaningful passion project for him. That poignant moment helped him realize that presenting ideas and standing firmly by one’s perspective with belief is what truly validates academic effort.
Presenting sincerely and confidently before the academic committee proved to be the turning point of success.
After this achievement, Demy learned a simple yet powerful lesson: just try, even when you are not sure you can do it. He believes that students should not allow language barriers or initial hesitation to limit their voice and potential. Demy’s message to other students, especially the international student community at VNU-International School, is that once you dare to begin, you may achieve more than you ever imagined.
Demy’s Consolation Prize at the 18th Student Research Conference is a testament to the effort, initiative, and confidence of international students at VNU-International School. His story also highlights how a multicultural learning environment, dedicated lecturers, and a supportive student community can empower students to become more confident, take on new challenges, and achieve meaningful academic accomplishments.
