Before the official enrollment time, Nguyen Doan Chan Quoc had an interview with a reporter from Lao Dong Newspaper about the process of preparing for the exam, the feeling of bewilderment when becoming a freshman and his plans on the path of singing.
- Becoming the valedictorian with 8.5 professional points and 9 knowledge points, how did Chan Quoc feel when receiving the results?
When I knew I had become the valedictorian of the Vocal and Light Music major of the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music, my emotions really burst out.
Being able to set foot in one of the prestigious music training institutions is a dream I cherished since childhood. At the moment of receiving the results, I was both happy and relieved after a long journey of effort.
This milestone is even more special because my family has a tradition of following the medical profession. I am the only member to choose the path of art but I am always accompanied and supported by my parents and become a solid spiritual support.
The title of valedictorian is not only a memorable milestone of 18 years old but also an initial recognition of the serious, methodical music path that she is determined to pursue.
- How has Chan Quoc balanced his studies at Thoai Ngoc Hau High School for the Gifted with vocal training, performance and preparation for the entrance exam?
Three years of studying at Thoai Ngoc Hau High School for the Gifted has always been something that makes me proud. Teachers create conditions for me to both complete the general education program and have time to review and develop artistic talents.
However, this journey is not easy at all, there are days when she wakes up at 3 am to study, and at the same time prepare for the aptitude test at the Conservatory of Music and prepare for the high school graduation exam.
This year, the exam at the Conservatory of Music is organized about two months earlier than usual, making the gap between the two exams only one month. The time is rushed, and the large amount of knowledge puts a lot of pressure on me.
She was fortunate to receive guidance from Ms. Tuyet Hang, a lecturer at Can Tho College of Culture and Arts. She guided and witnessed her growth steps from a young age, even before she participated in "The Voice Kids Vietnam" in 2019.
Ms. Bao Lan, lecturer at the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music and member of group 5 Dong Ke, also persistently guided her in professional music knowledge. If it were not for the understanding of the family, the support from the school and the teaching of the teachers, it would be difficult for her to achieve the results she has today.
- Before becoming a freshman, was Chan Quoc worried when entering the professional learning environment at the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music?
Studying in a professional music training environment and meeting leading lecturers is a great pride, but it also brings me no small surprise.
Many students have spent about four years studying in the intermediate system, having time to accumulate foundations before taking the university entrance exam. Meanwhile, I choose to take the university entrance exam directly. This means I have to try harder to supplement my knowledge and keep up with the program.
I understand that ahead will be a challenging start. However, it is the unknown that also motivates me to step out of my comfort zone and be more serious with my choices.
Does the title of valedictorian put pressure on you in maintaining your achievements and meeting the expectations of your family, teachers, and audience?
The title of valedictorian is an honor but certainly comes with pressure. When bearing this title, people can give you higher expectations, requiring you to show worthy ability and learning attitude.
I choose to see pressure as a positive motivation, reminding myself not to be complacent or stop. The valedictorian title is only a beautiful starting point for the new journey, not the final destination.
In addition to improving my vocal expertise at school, I am currently studying musical instruments, dance and stage skills. I want to improve both my musical thinking, vocal technique and performance style.
- At the age of 18, how does Chan Quoc expect four years of university to help him change and what goals has he set for his singing career?
Four years of university is not only an academic journey but also a precious youth for me to train and improve myself.
I expect the environment at the Conservatory to help me delve into vocal technique, master musical theory knowledge and build the demeanor of a serious artist. I also hope to meet friends and colleagues who share the same passion to study and grow up together.
In the immediate future, I want to maintain my studies, and at the same time improve my skills in playing the piano, dancing and performing. When I am mature enough, I plan to release meticulous music products with personal imprints.
If I have a suitable opportunity, I want to try my hand at music competitions or reality TV shows to rub shoulders. Looking at the journey of previous artists such as Vo Ha Tram, My Tam or Son Tung M-TP, I remind myself to strive every day with passion and humility.
I hope in the future to become a decent artist, bringing valuable products and contributing to Vietnamese music.
Nguyen Doan Chan Quoc was born in 2008, from An Giang, known to the audience when participating in "The Voice Kids Vietnam" in 2019. Chan Quoc belonged to the Huong Giang - Duong Cam coaches' team and won the runner-up title.
After the program, Chan Quoc prioritized studying, maintaining vocal practice and participating in some suitable performance activities. In his high school years, Chan Quoc studied at Thoai Ngoc Hau High School for the Gifted.
In 2026, Chan Quoc became the valedictorian of the Vocal and Light Music major, belonging to the Faculty of Jazz, Pop, Rock and Music Technology of the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music. The male singer achieved 8.5 professional points and 9 knowledge points.
