VALEDICTORIAN HONG JEONG WOO (DANIEL) – A YOUNG LEADER WITH A GLOBAL TECH VISION

Not only known for his impressive academic achievements, Hong Jeong Woo (Daniel) has also become a familiar face in the APU American International Schools community through his strong engagement in student life. With outstanding organizational skills, a strong sense of responsibility, and dedication to his peers, Daniel served with distinction as President of the APU Student Council for the 2024–2025 school year. His journey culminated in being named Valedictorian of the Class of 2025—a testament to his perseverance and far-reaching vision.

As Student Council President, Daniel and his team successfully organized numerous major events, including Prom Night, charitable initiatives, and various academic exchange programs. Through these contributions, he not only showcased his leadership abilities but also played a key role in strengthening APU’s vibrant and inclusive community spirit.

Daniel was awarded a total of over USD 450,000 in scholarships (equivalent to VND 11.3 billion) from prestigious partner universities such as Arizona State University (ASU), Central Michigan University (CMU), San Diego State University (SDSU), University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC), Wentworth Institute of Technology, and others.

In a particularly notable achievement, Daniel has chosen to pursue his higher education at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)—Asia’s leading university, ranked #1 in Hong Kong and among the Top 40 globally, especially renowned for its excellence in engineering, technology, and innovation.

In his graduation speech, Daniel reflected that APU is not just a place for academic excellence, but also a platform where students are empowered to shine and grow. His experience with the Student Council allowed him to develop vital international skills such as teamwork, event management, communication, and organizational thinking. Daniel shared that he was especially inspired by APU’s university networking events and seminars, which brought representatives from top global institutions directly to students, helping him and others build clear, practical goals for their academic futures.

Daniel also expressed his sincere gratitude to Dr. Thy Binh, Founder and Superintendent of APU American International Schools, saying:
“I’m truly thankful to Dr. Binh for her unwavering commitment to education and for continuously creating opportunities for us to grow—both intellectually and personally. She is not only the visionary behind this world-class learning environment but also a constant source of support, encouragement, and inspiration throughout our journey. Her leadership has had a profound impact on me.”

With the solid foundation of a holistic international education from APU, Daniel is now confidently moving forward, ready to pursue greater knowledge and contribute to creating long-term value for global communities in the future.