"I wanted to complete my bachelor’s degree in a modern and globalised environment".

With his sights set on a career in finance and accounting, Daniel Nguyen wanted to study at a university that not only offered a world-class business program but was also located in a vibrant, multicultural city.

Born and raised in Vietnam, Daniel is now well on his way towards his goal having just completed two years of a Bachelor of Commerce degree at Deakin’s Melbourne Campus at Burwood.

‘I chose to study in Australia because I wanted to complete my bachelor’s degree in a modern and globalised environment. I was also looking for a friendly learning-environment with a word class educational standard universities,’ he says.

After deciding on his global study location, Daniel set about researching which Australian university would best suits his study goals. With diploma-level studies in business administration and management, he says he also needed a program that would recognise his previous study pathway.

‘As well as various levels of support for international students, Deakin offered me a flexible program that meant I was able to start my study as second-year student without beginning the whole course again. I also knew that a Deakin degree is accredited and recognised by many organisations around the world.’

When he first began his Deakin studies, Daniel says the biggest challenge was mastering his written and verbal English language skills.

‘The way of way of speaking English in Vietnam is different to speaking it in Australia. However, after studying English at the Deakin University English Language Institution (DUELI) for a month, and with a lot of support from my teachers and friends, I now no longer have any problems with communication,’ he says.

Enjoying a friendly study environment, that he say offers him plenty of academic and professional support, Daniel is also enjoying the practical aspects of his degree.

‘Instead of only learning about theories, I have many chances to apply my knowledge and get involved in the programs and activities that are offered. In fact, at the beginning of my course, I was offered a paid internship opportunity right on campus. This allows me to experience the working environment in Australia while improving my soft skills in which enhance my competitiveness in workplace,’ he explains.

During his studies, Daniel joined the DUELI Leadership and Internship Program for a 12-month term as an international student leader and, as a result, has been offered two other work opportunities within the university.

‘The internship has expanded my network in Australia and opened even more opportunities. Within one year of studying at Deakin, I’ve had a number of professional interviews, received a scholarship to attend the 2016 Melbourne International Student Conference days and also had opportunities to attend various training sessions to improve my soft skills,’ he says.

A recipient of the 2016 Deakin’s Student Helping Student Award, Daniel continues to broaden his real-world skills. He’s worked on a project with Melbourne’s Whitehorse City Council, been interviewed for an Indian television program and has also participated in a video project for the Faculty of Business and Law.

‘These have all help enhance my academic and professional experience – as a result I have grown more in confidence and resilience both in the workplace as well as at uni,’ he explains.  

After his degree is completed, Daniel hopes to continue his studies and is aiming for a career as a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA).  

‘As I work towards a CPA, I want to work as an accountant to improve my skills and knowledge in finance,’ he says.

Two-thirds of the way through his commerce degree, Daniel says that choosing to study at Deakin has been one of his best decisions he’s made.

‘The course is specially designed for students who want to head in the right professional direction – with all the tools that are needed along the way. I know I will make very good use of the knowledge and experience I’ve gained … and I’ll be very proud to introduce myself to the world as a graduate from Deakin University.’