Celebrating Jung Sangyoon’s (BIS Hanoi Class of 2022) acceptance to Seoul National University

To start with, please tell us a little bit about yourself (introduce yourself in your own words) 

My name is Sangyoon Jung, and I graduated from BIS Hanoi in 2022. I graduated from a primary school in Korea and spent three years at BIS HCMC before coming to BIS Hanoi. I started at BIS Hanoi in Year 11 and finished both IGCSE and IB here. In March, I will begin my studies in Food and Animal Biotechnology at Seoul National University. 

What was it like when you first joined BIS Hanoi? What are your fondest memories of BIS Hanoi?  

When I first joined BIS Hanoi, I was a bit confused by the difference in atmosphere from my previous school. However, I soon discovered that the teachers and students here were very welcoming, which assisted me in quickly adapting and making many friends.  

My favorite memories of BIS Hanoi revolve primarily around the friendships and connections I made. I recall spending a lot of time with my friends, studying and socializing. I also enjoyed the close relationships I formed with my teachers. One memory that stands out to me is the time after we finished the IB exams. With the stress of exams finally behind us, my friends and I spent a lot of time having fun together, which I will always remember. 

How did you find the 2-year IB Diploma Programme? What challenges did you encounter and how did you overcome them?  

The IBDP was a challenging yet rewarding experience that provided me with invaluable skills for university and beyond. Throughout the program, I faced several challenges, such as effectively managing my time and staying motivated during lockdown period. One of my biggest challenges when studying IBDP was balancing IAs deadlines and producing high-quality coursework. To overcome this, I began using calendars to keep track of my deadlines and set specific goals for myself. As a result, I completed my IAs ahead of schedule. Overall, the IBDP has well prepared me for the challenges of higher education and given me such a solid foundation for future success. 

Now that you have graduated from BIS Hanoi, which university are you attending and why did you choose that university/major? 

I will begin my studies in Food and Animal Biotechnology at Seoul National University (SNU) in March. I decided to go to Seoul National University because of its excellent reputation and diverse range of opportunities. My passion for biology led me to major in Food and Animal Biotechnology. I'm really looking forward to continuing my studies in this field. 

What do you love about your university? Is there any exciting project/activity at the university that you would like to share?

The academic environment at SNU is fantastic. Everyone here is extremely talented, and I can learn a great deal from my peers. Being surrounded by such brilliant colleagues inspires me to work harder. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a member of such an academically competitive community. 

What would you say to your teachers who supported you through your education at BIS Hanoi?  

I'd like to thank all teachers for their tireless efforts and commitment to all of the students. I will be forever grateful for the impact you had on my personal growth, not to mention your efforts to prepare us for the final exams. I want to wish you the best of luck in the future. Good luck in your life, and please continue to assist many more students in the future. 

What advice do you have for your BIS fellow students, especially those who are doing or about to embark on their IBDP journey? 

I would advise you to be proactive and not be hesitant about asking for guidance when needed. It could be asking questions in class, seeking advice from teachers or alumni, or using numerous online resources. Although the IBDP can be challenging, it is also a highly rewarding experience that will equip you with essential skills set to thrive in university and beyond. 

Thank you Sangyoon!