Before coming to Australia, I had a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration in Vietnam, with a focus on e-commerce, and over five years of professional experience in marketing and communications.
Studying abroad has always been one of my biggest dreams. I wondered why people in developed countries seemed to possess stronger skills in communication, creativity and critical thinking.
After getting married in my twenties, I thought this dream would remain just that - a dream. However, with my husband's unwavering support, even after we had our daughter, I decided to take this leap.
My four-year-old daughter is the greatest love of my life. Currently, my husband and daughter are in Vietnam while I am in Australia finishing my studies on my own. I see this as my last chance to fulfill my dream. So, despite the challenges, I am committed to making it work.
I’ve always had a great impression of Australians, and some of my closest friends are from Australia. Among my top choices here, the University of Canberra (UC) stood out. I wanted to live in Canberra, but the UC course structure also aligned perfectly with my expectations. I was impressed by its strong graduate employment rate, and dynamic, youthful energy.
Canberra is a peaceful city with beautiful natural surroundings, friendly people and smooth traffic. Each season has its own charm: spring brings beautiful blossoms, autumn and winter have a cosy, relaxing vibe, and summer offers plenty of outdoor activities. I particularly enjoy visiting parks and lakes for walks, as being in nature feels like a gift.
I joined a badminton group as a way to stay active and feel part of a community. I also participated in social events and sports activities at UC, many of which are free for students. UC provides extensive support and offers activities to enhance student well-being and learning.
I’ve always enjoyed engaging with diverse groups of people. One of the most significant cultural differences I have noticed is how people in Australia genuinely respect individual privacy and personal differences. Everyone is free to express themselves through their clothing, hairstyle and life choices, and to pursue whatever dreams make them happy.
I find this openness both inspiring and refreshing, as it has given me the space and confidence to explore my own identity and learn more about myself.
Completing an IT course in Australia has significantly broadened my career opportunities on a global scale. Now that I have graduated, I feel far more confident pursuing positions that I previously would not have considered, both in Australia and internationally. Holding an Australian qualification has strengthened my professional profile and expanded the range of opportunities available to me.
My advice is to strive to create a healthy balance between your studies, work, and social life so you can truly make the most of your experience in Australia. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and remember that you are not alone. Reach out for support whenever you need it. There are always people and services ready to help you succeed.