Hoang Thuc Uyen Nguyen - Vietnam, 14 December, 2023
I decided to study in Australia as my parents believed in Australia’s top-quality education system and having a studying abroad experience would provide me with independence and personal growth – and it certainly has. The transition was even smoother with my sister already pursuing her studies here. My academic journey began on the Gold Coast when I started high school in Year 10. The experience was nothing short of wonderful, laying a solid foundation for my academic pursuits. Upon high school graduation, I went straight to university. QUT emerged as my ideal choice, thanks to its central location, vibrant learning environment, connections and robust industry. The high employability of the university’s business undergraduates was also an attractive feature, enhancing my prospects in my chosen field.
I opted for a business degree with a major in marketing, as I was fascinated by the dynamic nature of consumer behaviour and the strategies businesses use to engage their target audience. What I enjoy most about my degree is the practical development and application of marketing strategies and campaigns in real-world scenarios.
I also received the Merit Scholarship which was a great help in covering part of my tuition fee and relieved a bit of the burden on my parents.
My QUT journey
Studying at QUT has been a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the exceptional teachers who are not only caring but also incredibly helpful when needed.
My favourite units are Applied Business Analytics and Designing Consumer Research. These units not only offered engaging and intellectually stimulating learning processes but also presented comprehensive and beautifully structured content. Working on their assignments felt genuinely interesting and satisfying, leaving me with a sense of accomplishment as I gained valuable knowledge and skills each day.
One memorable highlight from my first year at QUT was participating in QUTopia. This is an opportunity for students to set up their pretend business, do a marketing plan, create a product that we then sell at a ‘market’ called QUTopia. Our group developed a convenient grab-and-go coffee and tea compressed cubes which can quicky dissolve in water to provide a quick caffeine-boost for busy university students. This project marked my introduction to group assignments, and I was fortunate to work with an exceptional team. QUTopia not only proved to be a fun event but also provided valuable exposure to what it is like in the real-world.
Overall, I appreciate the practical focus of QUT's curriculum, the supportive learning environment with various support services, and the diverse range of extracurricular/ networking opportunities available.
Support services
QUT offers students a range of support services which has been very useful to me during my studies. I’ve used the counselling service and I often seek advice from HiQ that has been extremely helpful. QUT Business School also offers business students learning advisors who can give you advice on a range of study related matters. They have helped me with understanding my assignments, wording, advice on balancing academic and personal commitments, emotional support, and over time they have become my cherished friends that has been a great bonus.
Joining in the QUT community
I absolutely appreciate the diverse range of extracurricular activities at QUT. I have been a part of QUT BAMSA (Business, Management & HR student club) as a former club executive. My main tasks were to create marketing materials and promote all our events such as Networking Nights, Business Student Convention, and Endless Summer. This experience has been both delightful and rewarding, fostering connections with a supportive team, as well as providing valuable networking and job-hunting opportunities. Besides, I’m also a member of AMPED student club (Advertising, Marketing, and PR) that also offers several events but due to schedule conflict, I haven’t had the chance to join in many.
Living in Brisbane
When undertaking high school on the Gold Coast, I rarely needed to go to Brisbane. Now, living in this vibrant city, I've discovered its bustling atmosphere, abundant networking opportunities, and a plethora of fantastic Asian restaurants. Whether it's enjoying a meal with friends in the city, Fortitude Valley, or West End, Brisbane has become a place of endless exploration and delight.
Despite the distance, I maintain a strong connection with my family in Vietnam, making it a daily ritual to share the details of my life with them. Additionally, weekends often find me visiting my host family on the Gold Coast or indulging in picnics with my high school friends.
My favourite QUT spots
I enjoy spending time at both the Kelvin Grove and Gardens Point libraries, where I engage in reading and studying. The Z block Business Lounge is among my favourites, offering a splendid view of the Brisbane River and a convenient kitchen for heating up lunch.
Future goals
Recently, I had the pleasure of being taught by an exceptional professor in consumer behaviour. Her contagious passion and engaging teaching style have inspired my ambition to pursue a career as a professor in the same field. This path would enable me to explore, share knowledge, and contribute to the academic community, particularly in the intellectually stimulating realm of consumer decision-making, a subject I am truly passionate about.
Advice to future students
At QUT, you will find a warm and friendly atmosphere, surrounded by welcoming individuals. The university offers extensive support services tailored for international students, so that you have a supportive environment throughout your studies. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need assistance – it's highly beneficial. Take full advantage of the opportunities available, including attending free cultural and career events. There are also lots of workshops which can help with your resume, develop your LinkedIn profile and improve your overall employability. Your time at QUT is a chance to shape both your experience and your future, so make the most of it.
