Watching Nguyen Thi Hai Yen confidently give a presentation in her class at a U.S. university, few would guess that just over a year ago, this girl from Tay Ninh carried a great fear called “English.” Yen’s journey is not just about studying abroad; it’s a complete “transformation” that began with a bold decision.
The story from over a year ago was completely different. Yen’s dream of studying in the USA seemed impossible. The biggest barrier wasn’t finances, but her English proficiency, which was only at an intermediate level, with communication skills being almost non-existent.
All her efforts, from self-study to attending local test prep classes, failed to yield the desired results. The lack of an interactive environment prevented Yen from developing natural reflexes. The fear remained, and the door to America seemed to be closing.
At her most desperate moment, a meeting with SIEC study abroad consultants opened a path Yen had never considered. Instead of continuing to struggle with domestic courses, SIEC proposed a strategic solution: 6 months of intensive English study in the Philippines.
IELTS 5.0
Shy to communicate, weak foundation
IELTS 7.5
Confident communication, eligible for U.S. study
This was a smart investment focused on solving the root problem. The 24/7 English immersion environment and the 1-on-1 learning model helped Yen make a spectacular breakthrough.
The 6 months in the Philippines were not just about studying; they were a process of forging willpower. From the initial awkward days, Yen gradually adapted and began to “live” the language naturally. With an IELTS 7.5 certificate in hand, she returned to Vietnam and confidently completed her U.S. study application with SIEC.
The day she held her U.S. visa, Yen emotionally shared:
“The decision to go to the Philippines was my biggest turning point. Without that guidance from SIEC, I probably would have given up. I turned my biggest fear into my greatest strength.”
Nguyen Thi Hai Yen’s story is a testament: any barrier can be overcome with the right strategy. If you are also worried about English or any other difficulty on your path to studying abroad, do not hesitate.
Let SIEC listen to your story and design a personalized pathway with you. Contact us to start turning the impossible into the possible, just as Hai Yen did.
