“The most meaningful moment for me was when I had time to sit down and reflect on what I had learned and what I could do better. That’s when I realized the true value of the summer camp — to learn and grow through every single moment.”
That’s how Nguyễn Hồ Minh Khoa — a participant of the SSC Summer Camp in 2022 and 2023, and now a first-year student at Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey — summed up his experience.
We grow through the things we experience, learn, and see, and SSC Summer Camp is exactly such a place. It’s where young people challenge themselves, learn through real experiences, and discover who they are on their journey to maturity. With a dynamic, diverse, and inspiring environment, SSC offers students the chance to develop communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and leadership — essential skills for the future.
Let’s hear more from Minh Khoa about his two-year journey with SSC!
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Nguyễn Hồ Minh Khoa — a participant of the SSC summer camp in 2022 and 2023. Among former SSC members, I’m often called by my nickname, “Micurl.” I am currently a first-year student (soon to be a sophomore) at Rutgers University – The State University of New Jersey, majoring in Computer Science with a focus on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
What made you decide to join the Summer Camp?
I joined my first SSC season in 2022 — actually, it was my mom who signed me up, not me. But I have to say, it was an amazing experience. I got to research, study, work, live, and have fun with friends — all at the same time. I had the chance to explore the vibrant, colorful city of Da Nang and learn so many new things. That’s why in 2023, I decided on my own to return to SSC.
I first learned about the camp through VNUK’s Facebook fanpage and immediately felt that this was a great opportunity to discover myself. I wanted to experience a new, dynamic, and friendly learning environment — a place where I could learn, play, and naturally develop my skills.
What was your most memorable moment at the Summer Camp?
Every moment at the camp made me exclaim “wow” — from kayaking through the Bảy Mẫu nipa palm forest to relaxing at Yen Retreat, from late-night working sessions to the final presentation.
But the most meaningful moment for me was when I had the chance to sit down, reflect on what I had learned, and think about what I could do better. That was when I realized the true value of the summer camp — learning and growing through every single moment.
What do you think makes SSC different?
For me, there are two main things that make SSC stand out from regular learning activities:
First is its practicality. SSC isn’t just a classroom where you sit, take notes, and memorize lessons — it’s a real “playground” where you learn by exploring, experiencing, practicing, and enjoying yourself. From teamwork and research to presentations, everything is tied to real-life applications.
Second is the lifestyle. At SSC, you don’t just learn — you live together. The camp creates an environment where you connect with new people, play like friends, live like a family, and work like colleagues. This bond makes SSC-ers closer and more understanding of one another — and I think that’s the unique “vibe” of SSC.
What skill do you think you improved the most after joining?
The skill I feel has improved the most is communication. This is an extremely important skill, especially for my dream major — International Business Administration.
Having the chance to talk and work with students from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds has helped me become more confident when communicating in English, learn to actively listen, and express ideas more clearly. I believe this valuable experience will be a huge asset for my future studies and career.
Did you make new friends? How did that feel?
At SSC, I met many friends from diverse academic backgrounds, skill sets, and talents. This gave me a new perspective on the diversity and dynamism of our generation. The feeling of being part of such a youthful, open, and energetic community was truly amazing.
How would you describe the Summer Camp in 3 words?
Working – Growing – Networking: SSC is not just a place to have fun, but also a “mini-society” — where we study and train under pressure, and from that very pressure, grow stronger. At the same time, it’s a place to expand relationships, connecting with dynamic, talented, and like-minded people.
Thank you, Khoa, for sharing your inspiring SSC journey. We wish you good health and many more valuable experiences on your future path.
Program Information:
Time: June 28, 2024 – July 7, 2024
Location: Da Nang
Theme: Danang the Fantastic City – Vision to 2050
Participants: Students from Grade 7 to Grade 12 (ages 12–18)
Registration link: https://bit.ly/traihekhoahoc2025
Contact to reserve a spot: 0937 919 606 (Mrs. Thu)
