1. What drew you to a double degree in B. Commerce and B. Laws?

Since high school, I have had a deep interest in upholding the rights of vulnerable people, which naturally drew me to the study of law. At the same time, I’ve always been interested in business and investment and understanding how financial systems can drive positive social and economic change. A double degree in Commerce and Law felt like the perfect combination to equip me with the tools to advocate for vulnerable groups while also understanding broader commercial and economic contexts.

2. How did you find out about the New Colombo Plan (NCP) scholarship and why did it spark your interest?

I found out about the NCP through another Macquarie University student who went on a scholarship to Singapore in 2022. I’ve always loved travelling, and the chance to live, study, and work overseas is an incredible opportunity that few people get to experience. The NCP stood out to me because of its unique combination of professional networking events, career opportunities, and the personal growth that comes with immersing yourself in another culture.

3. What has been your experience at Foreign Trade University (FTU)?

My experience at Foreign Trade University has been great. The university offers a variety of unique networking events and programs, which provide valuable opportunities to engage with professionals and peers. It’s also been interesting to observe the differences in academic standards and campus activities between Macquarie University and FTU, giving me a broader perspective on international education.

4. What are you looking forward to during your internship at Russin & Vecchi?

Having worked for two years at a law firm in Sydney before starting my scholarship, I’m excited to see how the operations and practices of a Vietnamese law firm compare to those back home. I’m particularly looking forward to understanding the cultural and legal nuances of working in Vietnam, as well as expanding my professional skills in an international setting.

5. What have been some of your highlights during your time in Vietnam?

Some of the highlights of my time in Vietnam so far include:

• Attending a dinner reception at the Australian Ambassador’s residence, which was an incredible networking opportunity.
• Taking a long weekend trip to Son La, in Northern Vietnam, where I explored the beautiful rice fields and mountains alongside the family of a local government official. An unforgettable cultural experience even though I had food poisoning for two weeks after eating too much Tiet Canh (raw pig blood soup)!
• Participating in meetings and activities with the Australian Embassy and gaining invaluable insights into diplomatic work.
• Completing a week-long lawyer skills training and networking event with lawyers from Hong Kong and Thailand.
• Representing the Australian Embassy in a charity football tournament.

Additionally, being based in Hanoi has been fantastic for its geographical benefits - it’s so easy to take trips to neighbouring countries like Cambodia, Thailand, Laos and China.

6. How has the New Colombo Plan scholarship blended with your studies?

I’m very fortunate that Macquarie University offers flexible online classes for my remaining subjects, so being overseas has not disrupted my studies at all. In fact, the scholarship has enhanced my learning experience by broadening my knowledge of the Indo-Pacific region. The NCP scholarship has opened countless doors, including opportunities to network with high-profile government agencies. It’s truly an incredible opportunity and I would encourage any student with aspirations to study abroad to apply.

7. What’s next for you once you complete your time at Foreign Trade University?

My university component ends in early January 2025 and I plan to take a two-week holiday traveling around Taiwan and Hong Kong with my mum. Afterward, I’ll return to Hanoi to continue advanced Vietnamese language training while balancing my Macquarie online studies and working at the law firm here. It looks like the first half of the year will be very busy, but I’m excited for what’s ahead!

8. What would you tell other students considering applying for a New Colombo Plan scholarship?

If you have a passion for travel and want to broaden your experiences on an international scale, I highly recommend applying for the NCP. The opportunities are truly endless! The application process is not simple and you need a really unique and thorough plan of what you're going to do if you are awarded a scholarship, and more importantly, how your time and experience overseas is going to benefit Australia. It doesn't matter what course you are studying, as long as you demonstrate a keen interest and knowledge of the Indo-Pacific and articulate how your work abroad will create meaningful impact.