This year, the Dresden University of Applied Sciences (HTWD) is awarding the German Academic Exchange Service Prize (DAAD Prize) 2025 to Thi Thu Ha Le from Vietnam. This award recognises not only her excellent academic achievements, but also her social commitment.

Ms Ha Le has been studying Media Informatics at HTWD since 2022. Even in her first semesters, she stood out for her good preparation, active participation and willingness to help, although her German language skills were still developing at the time. Her top grade (1.0) in Mathematics II is particularly noteworthy.

Commitment beyond her studies

In addition to her studies, Thi Thu Ha Le is involved in many different ways. She worked as a volunteer at Lebenshilfe Zittau. She was a maths tutor at HTWDand is currently involved inAIESEC, the world's largest student organisation promoting international exchange and intercultural understanding. There she organises information events, designs posters and helps with social projects, most recently with a rubbish collection campaign on the River Elbe.

Personal background and motivation

When asked why she decided to study at HTW Dresden, Thi Thu Ha Le emphasises the practical relevance and family atmosphere: "I am very grateful that I chose HTW Dresden. I can ask my professors for advice at any time, even after the lectures. The university also offers me many opportunities to develop myself further, for example through my work as a student assistant. Thanks to scholarships abroad, I was able to take part in various excursions. Last year, I was in Taiwan with a study group."

What the student particularly appreciates about Dresden is the combination of tradition and modernity, the diverse cultural scene and the proximity to nature. But there are also things she misses. What she misses most in Germany are her family, friends and the fresh Vietnamese cuisine.

After completing her Bachelor's degree, Thi Thu Ha Le plans to study for a Master's degree - perhaps at the HTWD.