During Discover America months (from June to August), students and American Center patrons explored U.S. culture and natural wonders by participating in the Discover America Essay Writing Contest. Students were asked to research and write an essay on a topic inspired by a Mark Twain quote: “What kind of views do you think you would acquire from traveling to the United States? What would you hope to learn from your trip?”
During the Discover America months, the American Center and EducationUSA also organized several programs on writing tips and techniques to help students prepare their essays. The contest attracted entries from all over the country, from Hanoi and Bac Ninh in the north, to Ha Tinh in the center, and Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho in the south. Many essays came from high schools and secondary schools. The first place winner was Tran Anh Khoa, who is a 12th grader from Le Hong Phong High School for the Gifted. During an awards ceremony, Khoa said “The contest expands my knowledge about beautiful America and its diverse culture. I am planning to go there for my higher education. What a great experience!”
