SAL ANNUAL REVIEW 2025 | LOOKING BACK TO MOVE FORWARD

"One of the things I'm most proud of this year is earning an internship at the Chinese Embassy."

This was one of the reflections shared by a SAL scholar during the annual review. Behind that simple sentence lies a journey of hard work, personal growth, and the courage to keep moving forward.

The Scholarship Committee and SAL students

Every September, the SAL community enters one of its most meaningful milestones of the year: the Annual Review. This year, the review took place from September 13 to September 19, giving the Scholarship Committee an opportunity to reflect on each student's progress throughout the past year.

In addition to academic performance, mentor evaluations, and participation in SAL activities, every scholar is encouraged to take a moment to reflect on their own journey. What have I learned? How have I grown? And what positive impact have I made on the people around me?

Through these reflections, SAL witnessed many different stories of growth.

Some students shared that they had the confidence to lead a team activity for the first time. Others discovered a clearer career direction after overcoming challenges and setbacks. There were also quieter but equally meaningful changes—learning to listen more, staying committed to personal goals, or finding the courage to step outside their comfort zones.

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Thuy Vy, a SAL Scholar from the Class of 2022, shared:

"At first, I knew this was not an easy goal to achieve. Then I remembered how hard I had worked when applying for the SAL Scholarship. That memory reminded me to keep trying, keep pushing forward, and never give up. In the end, I earned an internship at the place I had always dreamed of. Every day, I remind myself to learn a little more and become a little better, so I can truly deserve the opportunity I've been given."

A student is presenting their report to the Scholarship Committee

Perhaps the greatest joy for SAL is not simply seeing students achieve impressive milestones, but witnessing how they grow year after year. From uncertainty to confidence, from hesitation to making thoughtful decisions about their future, each step reflects a meaningful journey of personal development. And as they continue to grow, they also begin giving back to their communities in their own unique ways.

The Annual Review is more than a fair and transparent scholarship evaluation process. It is also an opportunity for the SAL Scholarship Committee to look back on the journey shared with each student and celebrate how far they have come.