Aside from being a member of the East High Volleyball team, which she says can attribute its success to their “chemistry.” Doan Dinh works “on top of powerlifting, club practices,” and her “rigorous school courses.”
A member of the National Honors Society and the Blue Aces Student Ambassador Program, Dinh has her sights set on the future. Her goals for this year include “continuing to be successful in the classroom.”
She strives to be “one of the top contenders for academic scholarships that would help” “pay for college.” Dinh is also active in “volleyball recruitment” to continue her “passion for the sport and receive tuition help.”
As part of her NHS involvement, she participates in Aces in the Community. Last year, Dinh “helped pack dry items for a food bank.” In fact, it might just be the spirit of an elementary school teacher that inspires Dinh’s charitable activities.
Dinh shared with VYPE that her former teacher Ms. Vu supported “many who faced adversities due to family or income issues.” Ms.Vu “always ensured all her students were taken care of and had someone to talk to.” Vu was “such a great role model.” “She was relentless in making sure we understood that education was the most important priority and all of us were more than capable in having a bright future.”
Dinh’s family has always strived to better their futures.
As Vietnam natives, Dinh’s parents knew of the “freedoms and opportunities” America could offer their children. When Dihn was two years old, the family immigrated to the U.S., but they never left behind their culture. While growing up, Dinh credits her mother for enrolling her in “language courses” and taking her to “temple every Sunday.”
Dinh believes “it’s important to stay close with your roots and stay in tune with your culture.” In addition to her family, many of whom are still in Vietnam, Dinh also misses “the community and beautiful landscape.”
Although she has found something of a new community in her teammates. Specifically, “6 rotation outside hitter, Jaidynee Vontress.” Dinh says Vontress’ “passion for the game” and her “persistent hard work on the court” are admirable. Not only does Dinh name Vontress as the teammate who has left the most significant impact on her, but she also says her drive is “unparalleled.”
