Why study in Canberra?

Kenny chose Canberra for study to challenge himself. Compared to bigger cities with larger, well-established Vietnamese communities, Canberra offered the perfect blend of opportunity and safety.

“I felt that Canberra would be different, with the opportunity to immerse myself in Australian life while still having access to a supportive international student community at UC,” Kenny explains.

He wanted authentic new experiences, like trying different food specialities and interacting with people from cultures all around the world. He also wanted to develop new skills, such as communicating in English every day.

Best aspects of Canberra

Compared to his home city, the serene city of Canberra presented a huge change of pace. Without constant distraction, Canberra offers the space to focus on your studies and genuinely connect with people both within and outside the University, Kenny explains.

Kenny says Canberra is accessible and easy to get around. The city centre is fairly compact, which makes it easy to enjoy fun days out without having to walk long distances.

“I really enjoy how approachable people are. Everyone will greet you with a smile, a ‘how are you’ and genuine sharing of stories, allowing for conversations rather than simply walking past one another,” he says.

Being a mentor and supporting others

Working as a UC Mentor and Study Coach at the Ngunnawal Centre has taught Kenny that every student’s journey is different. He’s a big believer in the importance of awareness and acceptance around unique challenges.

Kenny explains the importance of being willing to ask for support yourself. By showing that it’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help, you empower others to do the same.

UC has a range of support services available to students, from Peer-Assisted Learning Sessions to UC mentoring and wellbeing programs and UCX events.

Canberra Business Society: Student leadership

Kenny is currently Vice President of the Canberra Business Society in UC’s Faculty of Business, Government and Law. He also previously served as President of the Vietnamese Student Society.

“Being involved in student leadership has completely transformed my university experience,” he says.

While the MBA has given Kenny knowledge about business, the Canberra Business Society has provided opportunities to put those skills into practice. He’s been involved in organising networking events, collaborating with University staff and industry partners, and helping create opportunities for students to connect beyond the classroom.

“Those experiences have strengthened my communication, teamwork and leadership skills in ways that lectures alone never could,” Kenny says.

Growth: personal and professional

Studying at UC has led to significant personal growth. Kenny explains that he’s now standing taller and has the confidence to talk to strangers and take on new and challenging roles.

Living independently has also helped him develop new skills. Kenny is now more flexible and disciplined, and better able to strike a healthy work-life balance. Through sharing a living space, he’s also learned to be pragmatic and firm, and to communicate well in any situation.

Professionally, UC has been instrumental in helping him develop communication, networking and collaboration skills. Volunteering and mentoring roles have developed Kenny’s practical abilities, giving him the confidence to thrive in any situation.

Kenny has one main piece of advice for international students considering studying at UC – just say yes! He recommends taking any opportunities offered to you, such as joining clubs, volunteering, attending networking events and even going on spontaneous adventures with new friends or colleagues. The more you put yourself out there, the more Canberra gives back, he says.

Visit the UC international student website to find out how you can begin your own study journey at UC and become your very best self.