At 80, Duc Vo is one of our oldest ESOL students, but he is most definitely young at heart. Duc is originally from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam. He brings his remarkable life story and commitment to learning to the ACC ESOL classroom. He has lived in the US for three decades, building a life defined by resilience and a love of learning. 

During the Vietnam War, Duc served as a South Vietnamese military officer. He endured five years of imprisonment and was exposed to rocket explosions, an experience that left him with significant hearing loss. After coming to the US, Duc worked in many fields, but his favorite time was his years as a truck driver for Exxon Mobil, when he was able to travel all over the country. 

Today, Duc is active and engaged in many endeavors, including working part-time in the food service industry, taking a GED math course, and attending two ESOL classes. After his beloved wife passed away, he returned to studying English for personal enrichment, finding purpose and happiness in learning. He especially loves classes because they help him develop his communication skills. Outside of class, as a devoted Buddhist, Duc dedicates time to meditation, reflection, and study. He emphasizes that physical and mental health and the pursuit of knowledge are essential to a meaningful life. 

Professor Jesser, his Grammar 2 instructor, describes Duc as “an admirable and dedicated student” whose flexibility and willingness to learn new technologies have contributed to his success. She notes that he is a respected and inspiring presence in the classroom, admired by peers and faculty alike.