When I first stepped into RMIT Vietnam as a quiet, uncertain student, I never imagined the transformative journey that awaited me. Today, I stand as a confident leader who has discovered my true calling in Australian education. This path began with a simple desire to help fellow students through peer mentoring during my undergraduate studies.
What started as a simple intention to support fellow students through peer mentoring turned out to be a defining moment. It helped me build communication skills that became the cornerstone of my entire career. Through mentoring, I discovered my passion for Australian education, which has now become not just my profession, but my lifelong mission. The program connected me with incredible teammates - over 300 students, and developed leadership capabilities that continue to guide my professional journey today.
Tien extended her network with many international students from diverse backgrounds.
I'm forever grateful to the RMIT Career and Job Shop team, who recognised my growth by featuring my story in an interview. This platform allowed me to inspire other young students, showing them that transformation is possible when you embrace opportunities to serve others. Being selected as an RMIT Ambassador was a pivotal moment that opened extraordinary doors. As one of two ambassadors chosen to lead a student exchange delegation from the MBA program in Melbourne, I was exposed to inspiring stories from senior students about their Australian MBA journey. These conversations sparked my own decision to pursue an MBA in Melbourne. This was a choice that completely reshaped my future and opened opportunities I never thought possible.
Tien and her Student Ambassador Team (SAT).
What touches me most deeply is RMIT's enduring sense of community. After six years away, returning to campus felt like coming home. The Careers team – Eric Asato and Melvin Fernando – remembered me instantly, and the alumni community welcomed me with open arms, including Andy Ho. This genuine warmth exemplifies what makes RMIT Vietnam truly special.
A serendipitous moment came when I reconnected with Ms. Manuela Spiga, Head of Careers, Industry & Alumni Relations at RMIT Vietnam. Personal Edge+ was one of her projects that I participated in as a student. Meeting again in different capacities filled me with joy, seeing how she continues to make meaningful impacts, creating valuable opportunities for both current students and alumni.
I must also extend heartfelt gratitude to the seniors and club members who supported my journey. Thank you for your guidance and for creating opportunities that challenged me to explore new fields, showing me I could become better than I ever imagined possible.
Tien in her new role: Sharing her knowledge and mentoring future generations.
Today, I pay this legacy forward by sharing my story and supporting others in their educational journeys. RMIT taught me that true leadership isn't about titles or positions, it's about lifting others and creating opportunities for the next generation to thrive.
