Where are you from, and what have you studied and where?
I’m from Vietnam and I’ve been in Adelaide since 2018. I attended Norwood Morialta High School and initially studied Biomedical Science. However, after a few years, I realised I was more interested in the practical side of things, particularly the automotive industry.
I made a bold decision to shift careers and am now studying Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at TAFE SA.
What has your timeline in Adelaide looked like?
In 2018, I started my Year 10 at Norwood Morialta High School and by 2019, I had achieved my SACE and ATAR rating. I also volunteered as a logistics member with the Vietnamese Student Society (VSS).
From 2021 to the end of 2023, I pursued a Biomedical Science degree and worked part-time as a cook in a Chinese-Vietnamese restaurant. I later joined the VSS content and talent department, where I led the Talent team and managed events.
In 2024, I switched careers to the automotive industry and started a placement at a performance workshop, gaining experience in modifying and tuning high-performance cars.
What motivated you to choose Adelaide over other Australian cities for your studies?
Adelaide is recognised as a leading education city and offers a peaceful, relaxed environment, perfect for focusing on my studies. Additionally, South Australia’s stunning wildlife and natural scenery made it an ideal location for exploration, which was a bonus.
How did you select your course and institution, and what resources or support services have you found most helpful at your institution?
I considered my strengths and weaknesses before choosing my course, and I’ve always had a passion for the automotive industry. Encouraged by my father, who is an engineer, I chose TAFE SA, which is known for its practical approach to trade education.
The hands-on learning and simulations offered at TAFE SA have been invaluable in my journey.
Describe a moment when you felt truly at home in Adelaide.
The friendliness and generosity of the people in Adelaide made me feel truly welcomed and their warmth helped me settle in and made adapting to life here much easier.
Learn more about the Australian culture here.
If you were to take a friend on a day trip around Adelaide, where would you take them and why?
I would take them to Hahndorf, a charming German village famous for its stunning red vine leaves in autumn. I would also visit Glenelg for a relaxing time by the beach, which has a calming and mesmerising vibe. Here are some more things to do in Adelaide.
Where do you currently work, and what are your future aspirations?
I am currently completing my placement at Stillwell Hyundai in Nailsworth. I aspire to become a performance vehicle technician, specialising in diagnosing and modifying vehicles.
Ultimately, I aim to open my workshop and turn my passion for the automotive industry into a successful career.
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