Chau is an international student from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam who dreams of a career in Event Management. She is currently studying a Master of Business majoring in Event Management at the Gold Coast campus.
Interested in sharing your story? DM us on Instagram @griffithinternational.
Hi Chau!
What made you want to study abroad?
First, I wanted to sharpen my English skills in an English-speaking country like Australia. I have always dreamed of studying abroad in a diverse culture, so after I completed my bachelor degree and had some work experience, I decided to come to Australia to accomplish my dream.
Another reason I wanted to study abroad is that I had been living all my life with my parents and never experienced a life without them around me, so I wanted to see whether I can survive in a whole different environment outside of my comfort zone.
Why did you choose Griffith University?
I did some research on which universities I could study with in Queensland, and Griffith was at the top of my list. Griffith has high rankings in the education system, and especially in Business programs, so I considered Griffith as a good choice for my future career in Event Management.
I also chose Griffith because it is located in Queensland, which is a peaceful state and similar weather to my home country.
What do you love most about your life in Queensland?
I love Queensland’s nature and weather – it’s not a cold place and has considerable ranges of temperature. I also love the Gold Coast’s beaches, which are one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in the state.
What was your biggest fear about starting your student journey?
My biggest fear at first was using the public transport system, because the public transport in my home country is totally different compared to Queensland’s system.
‘If it’s meant to be it will be, so be yourself and live the life you always wanted to live.’.
How did you overcome your fear?
I got a lot of support from my hosts as I was staying at a homestay in the beginning. I also asked for help from public transport staff whenever I got lost. I gradually became familiar with using the public transport system after about two months of being in Australia.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
‘If it’s meant to be it will be, so be yourself and live the life you always wanted to live.’.
That was the advice from my best friend who also studies at Griffith. She told me this when I was going through some hard times, including not being able to travel home during the COVID travel restrictions.
Who in your life has had the most influence on you?
I have a very good friend who sadly passed away at a very young age. She was so enthusiastic and always did her best. She did not take anything for granted and she encouraged me to try things that I have never done or was too scared to try.
During the last trimester of my bachelor’s degree I decided to start volunteering for events, and even advanced to an Event Director position during my university’s Drama Week – that’s when I felt that the Events industry was my path.
What has been a key moment in your life as an international student?
The moment I will always remember was when I was announced as the 2021 Griffith Sport Event Leader Spirit Award winner. I worked so hard for it and I am really thankful for those who supported me to achieve this.
Winning the Griffith Sport Event Leader Spirit Award, at the Griffith Sport Awards 2021
Do you do any volunteer or extra-curricular activities?
Apart from my volunteer work as a Griffith Sport Event Leader, I have been volunteering with the Griffith Mates program for over two years. It is a program that is designed for both domestic and international students who are studying on campus or offshore. The program aims to create a welcoming and friendly community for students to connect, practice English and make new friends.
I enjoy learning about new cultures and making friends with people from diverse backgrounds. I also love that through the program, I’ve had opportunities to sharpen my employability skills.
Are you a member of any uni clubs?
I was a part of the Griffith Yoga and Meditation club in 2020 and I’m currently a member of the Griffith Outdoor Adventure Club. I attended a fun hiking trip to Springbrook Falls in August, 2021 with the Outdoor Adventure Club and I made a lot of new friends from that trip.
Where can we find you at the weekend?
I usually spend time alone on weekends after a long week of studying and working. I enjoy lying down on the grass and reading books at a park near my house, or cooking some prep food to bring along on campus for the following week.
What are your dreams after graduating?
I have always wanted to be a successful Event Manager for sporting events, festivals or weddings in the future, but I am also open to other opportunities since I am learning that I am capable of more than just event planning. I also hope to grow my skills in the Marketing and Social Media fields, as they are very interesting and creative fields for me.
What is your favourite quote?
‘Every person you meet has a lesson to teach, a story to tell and a dream to share.’
Hear more from Chau:
LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/chaupham0603
Instagram – @chau.phambang
HUMANS OF GRIFFITH INTERNATIONAL
At Griffith University, we celebrate diversity and difference. Our community is made up of students from around the globe, all with a unique story to tell.
In this Humans of Griffith series, a selection of our international students have chosen to share their experiences, unedited in their own words – from the challenges of studying abroad, to building community and independence, and their dreams after graduation and beyond.
No matter who you are, or where you are in the world, whatever your study journey, Griffith University is with you all the way. Find out more at griffith.edu.au/international.
Interested in sharing your story? DM us on Instagram @griffithinternational.
View more Humans of Griffith student stories here.
