Vietnamese student awarded (Issue 6, 2009)
La Trobe student Nguyen Thi Kim Anh (Kelly)
Nguyen Thi Kim Anh (Kelly) from Vietnam has been living and studying in Melbourne for over two years and she says that she feels lucky to be in such a multicultural and friendly atmosphere.
Kelly is in her final year of studying a Bachelor of International Business and she still feels excited about her choice of study. She speaks with admiration about her lecturers, who are not only well trained, but also convey their enthusiasm to their students. Kelly's interest in her studies is reflected in her academic achievements; she has been awarded with the Dean's Commendation and she has been invited to become a member of the La Trobe Golden Key International Honour Society.
As a Vietnamese student, she became involved with the La Trobe Vietnamese Students Association (LAVISA), which has given her the opportunity to maintain contact with other Vietnamese students and participate in social events.
'By being a member of LAVISA, I was able to participate in organising different activities for the community. This gave me great confidence in communicating with people and improving my interpersonal skills' says Kelly.
Kelly was elected as one of the executive members of LAVISA for two years in a row, in the role of public relations officer. In this position, she liaised with current and prospective Vietnamese students and assisted them with their needs and enquiries.
Living on campus, Kelly enjoys all the benefits of being close to the university; not having to take transport every day and being able to use the library until late. She also loves the green environment and fresh air that the campus offers.
'The Bundoora campus is the most beautiful campus I have ever seen, with the most green environment' she adds.
Kelly hopes to find work in Vietnam after the completion of her studies here and she is confident the skills she acquired during her course at La Trobe will prove to be a great advantage.