Boarder Profile: Nguyen Hai Van

Describe yourself in three words.

Sporty, introverted, independent.

When did you start boarding? How long have you been a boarder?

I started boarding this year in 2020.

What do you like best about boarding?

We are able to play sports almost any time of the day.

What do you like least about boarding? 

Nothing.

What do you miss most about not staying at home?

I miss my family the most!

What opportunities has boarding given you that you would not have had otherwise? Would you encourage other students to be boarders as well? Why?

Boarding has given me opportunities to find out new elements and aspects about myself I never thought existed! Since the day I’ve become a border, I’ve changed a lot. I am now able to tell my parents confidently that I can take care of myself and concentrate on my studies happily and healthily.

In my opinion, everything has two sides: advantages and disadvantages. Students who are boarders might have to leave their families early and they may not receive as much love or care from their parents compared to those who are not boarders. However,  being a border brings outstanding benefits. The first reason is rooted in the fact that we have to face hardships on our own, which makes us more mature and independent. Secondly, it makes us value and cherish family love as only when we go through tough times, we realize how important our relatives are. Lastly, I feel like we are preparing for our future because if we are used to staying alone from a young age, then when we grow up, we are not afraid of leaving the comfort of families. 

What do you hope to do when you finish school?

I really haven’t got any plans yet but I believe that it depends on my exams result. Besides, I don’t even know what I want to do, maybe I’ll try everything!