Tuan is studying a Master of Engineering in Renewable Energy at The Australian National University (ANU).

Originally from Vietnam, he completed a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT).

Tuan became interested in studying in Australia when he participated in a conference during his undergraduate studies.

“I was fortunate to be a team leader of HCMUT students at the ‘Green Energy in Australia’ exhibition in 2014. I had the opportunity to meet representatives from different universities, and attend exciting presentations from Australian experts,” he said.

He chose to follow his Australian dream at ANU because it offers access to state-of-the-art teaching and facilities.

“Before I came here, my perception of ANU was mostly from the internet. I watched videos about the University and the College of Engineering and Computer Science. I was truly impressed by the lab facilities and research work at ANU, and it really motivated me to get involved,” Tuan said.

Tuan was also interested in the unique Systems Engineering curriculum at ANU.

“The Systems Engineering approach gives us the skills to contribute to cross-disciplinary problems. It’s shown me how to communicate engineering work and solutions, with both specialists and the general public. The program has equipped me with insight into complex practical and theoretical problems in the energy industry. I can also evaluate complex systems in terms of technical and social perspectives,” he said.

Tuan found that his study experience exceeded his expectations, despite challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I could not believe it until I came here. ANU offers me a wide range of study resources and extraordinary teaching experiences. I have opportunities to work with highly distinguished scholars in the field and with excellent students from all around the world.

“Students can ask questions during class as well, which helps you to understand the material much better. Even though we are facing a serious pandemic, the teaching team put in so much effort to ensure the best delivery to students, to help us prepare for assignments and exams,” he said.

One of his biggest achievements has been receiving a prize for ‘student leadership for learning and teaching’ in the College’s 2020 Remote Teaching and Student Experience Awards, in recognition of Tuan’s outstanding contribution as a class representative. He’s also a member of the ANU Vietnamese Student Association.

Among his favourite things about ANU is the community – from playing team sports to the small class sizes, and many social events from student associations.

“I adapted quickly to Canberra. It took me a few days to make new friends. Canberra, especially Toad Hall, is cosy and welcoming. It felt like home,” he said.

Tuan said that getting a scholarship was integral to him being able to study in Australia.  

“I would also like to express my appreciation to the VinGroup Scholarship program, without which I could not have achieved my dream. The scholarship is a solid foundation, and helps thousands of Vietnamese students. They contribute towards the sustainable development of science and technology in Vietnam for the future.” 

After graduating, Tuan hopes to bring his passion of renewable energy technology back home to Vietnam.

“When I graduate I’d like to continue my studies of the energy sector, mainly focusing on solar power plants. I’d like to connect with local scholars to build up a green energy forum in my home country, as it’s a very promising area in Vietnam,” he said.