The very first student of VinUni passed the USMLE Step 1 in Year 5

Congratulations to Dang Huu Thien – VinUni’s First MD Student to Successfully Pass the USMLE Step 1 in Year 5!

VinUniversity proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of Dang Huu Thien, a 5th-year student in the Medical Doctor (MD) program at the College of Health Sciences, who has become the first student in VinUni’s history to successfully pass the USMLE Step 1 (United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1) — one of the most demanding and prestigious assessments in global medical education.

Spanning more than eight hours, the USMLE Step 1 evaluates foundational knowledge across critical medical domains including anatomy, physiology, pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, and behavioral sciences. The exam requires not only deep comprehension, but also a strategic, disciplined, and sustained preparation effort.

Thien’s success represents both a remarkable personal milestone and a powerful testament to the academic rigor, global orientation, and high standards of the MD program at VinUni.

Reflecting on his journey, Thien shared that he first encountered the USMLE in his third year — a moment that sparked his ambition to pursue a global medical career. Over the course of five months of intensive preparation, he immersed himself in trusted resources such as UWorld, Boards and Beyond, Sketchy, and First Aid, focusing on mastering core concepts, reinforcing an integrated knowledge framework, and maintaining disciplined daily study routines.

Thien also highlighted the importance of institutional support. Weekly Friday evening review sessions led by Dr. Khac Linh, along with ongoing mentorship from faculty members, played a critical role in helping him consolidate knowledge, maintain momentum, and stay focused throughout the process.

To fellow students considering the USMLE path, Thien shared this advice:

“I truly believe that any VinUni student can succeed in this exam. With a strong academic foundation and the unwavering support of our professors, all you need is discipline and a smart study plan. Focus on mastering the basics during the pre-clinical years — that will give you a real edge when preparing for Step 1.”

Once again, congratulations to Dang Huu Thien! Your achievement marks a historic first for VinUni and serves as a source of inspiration for future generations of students striving to make their mark in global medicine. We wish you continued success and brilliance on every step of your journey ahead!