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Two international students, two great journeys to Charles Darwin University
Two international students, two great journeys with Charles Darwin University
Natural beauty aside, NT exudes the feeling of endless summers, laid-back vibes and a strong community ethos. And did you know that CDU brings this unique experience to the heart of Sydney as well? In fact, it has campuses and delivery sites across the NT, but wherever students choose to lay their roots, they unlock a lifestyle unlike any other — where every step feels like a leap toward a brighter future.
Leaving home for the very first time to study abroad might feel like setting sail alone into the world — but not if you choose Charles Darwin University (CDU). Here, international students are equipped with more than just a map — they have a complete crew too, one that’s dedicated to helping them navigate every wave of what’s set to be the biggest trip of their lives thus far.
Indeed, CDU’s students are seamlessly connected and supported from the moment they apply to the Northern Territory institution ranked amongst the top 100 universities in the Asia Pacific. Homesickness is hardly an issue, considering the many charms of capital city Darwin and its surrounding areas. From the lush rainforests of Kakadu National Park to the stunning waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, the NT is a playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Nguyen Hao Vo, affectionately known as Harry, always knew he wanted to study abroad, so when the time came for him to pursue a degree, he did his research. "I attended study abroad events in Vietnam, and that's where I first encountered representatives from CDU," he says. "I was immediately impressed by the educational quality and facilities they offered." Upon applying, Harry secured the Global Merit scholarship, getting a significant 30% discount on tuition fees. Then, he pursued and landed another government scholarship. “CDU was definitely the perfect fit for my economic situation," Harry says. "They allowed me to focus on my studies comfortably and peacefully."
NGUYEN HAO VAO
Landing the opportunity of a lifetime
Leaving home for the first time
Transitioning from Vietnam to Australia marked a new chapter in Harry's life, one filled with both excitement and apprehension. “I had never travelled alone to another country before," admits the student, who remembers landing at midnight like it was just yesterday. “CDU provided an airport pickup service and this helped me a lot,” he says.
With a keen interest in finance and a passion for coding, Harry found everything he needed and more in CDU's Bachelor of Information Technology. Today, he’s more than happy with his program. He’s impressed by how passionate his professors are and by the diverse range of learning opportunities available. “My professors are very patient and are always happy to help,” he says. “I've also appreciated sessions on Australian culture and gender equality — they've broadened my perspective in unexpected ways."
Exploring lifelong passions
With a keen interest in finance and a passion for coding, Harry found everything he needed and more in CDU's Bachelor of Information Technology. Today, he’s more than happy with his program. He’s impressed by how passionate his professors are and by the diverse range of learning opportunities available. “My professors are very patient and are always happy to help,” he says. “I've also appreciated sessions on Australian culture and gender equality — they've broadened my perspective in unexpected ways."
Exploring lifelong passions
Leaving home for the first time
Transitioning from Vietnam to Australia marked a new chapter in Harry's life, one filled with both excitement and apprehension. “I had never travelled alone to another country before," admits the student, who remembers landing at midnight like it was just yesterday. “CDU provided an airport pickup service and this helped me a lot,” he says.
With a keen interest in finance and a passion for coding, Harry found everything he needed and more in CDU's Bachelor of Information Technology. Today, he’s more than happy with his program. He’s impressed by how passionate his professors are and by the diverse range of learning opportunities available.
Exploring lifelong passions
“My professors are very patient and are always happy to help,” he says. “I've also appreciated sessions on Australian culture and gender equality — they've broadened my perspective in unexpected ways."
Embracing new opportunities
Beyond the classroom, Harry has embraced the vibrant student community at CDU, eagerly joining and enjoying many activities and events.
“From photo shoots to networking events, I take every chance I get to get involved, ” he says. “Our student community is very active and this makes it very easy to make friends.”
Whenever he can, he always shares his CDU journey with friends and family back in Vietnam via social media.
Looking ahead, Harry hopes to work towards a career in software development. Before that, he hopes to use CDU’s online resources to secure an internship. One day, he hopes to pursue a master’s degree in Darwin too.
Making Darwin a second home
“I lived in Vietnam, where everywhere is always so crowded and everything moves very fast,” he says. “But life here is peaceful, slow and it keeps me chilled out. And because I live alone, I feel I have become more independent.”
Eight years ago, Crystal Zhao left China for Australia to study International Tourism Management in Queensland. Then, her journey took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I moved to the Northern Territory," she shares, reflecting on the circumstances that led her to discover the unique charm of the Top End.
She loved the warm climate and even warmer community. It wasn’t long before she was immersed in its multicultural events and heart-warming initiatives like Kindness Shake, a community and student led initiative focused on supporting international students, migrants and refugees. Beyond its cultural richness, the region offered promising prospects, with opportunities for international students to build their lives here post-graduation, including employment in the public sector.
YUQING (CRYSTAL) ZHAO
Choosing a change of pace
Crystal's experiences as an international student at CDU were nothing short of transformative. "Adjusting to a new city and education system presented its challenges, but I found lots of support from the university community," she reflects.
She particularly valued the orientation program and cultural initiatives designed to foster a sense of belonging among international students. Inspired by this inclusivity, Crystal became actively involved on campus and volunteered around Darwin, forging deeper connections with her peers and community.
An enriching and transformative experience
Eager to give back and support future students on their own journeys, Crystal became a Future International Student Advisor (FISA) during her second year of her Master’s — one of the various ways students at CDU can earn while learning. In this role, she assisted in the management of enquiries from prospective students and applicants, using her experiences to provide personalised support and insight.
Paying it forward
“A typical day as a FISA involves answering enquiries from various channels, informing students about the application process, and managing CDU's Chinese social media platforms,” she says. As she’s fluent in Mandarin and has a deep understanding of Chinese culture, Crystal plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the university and international students from diverse backgrounds.
Today, Crystal works three days a week as a teacher, a position she secured quickly post-graduation, and dedicates two days to her FISA role. The CDU graduate finds comfort and fulfilment in her roles and the connections she has forged in Darwin. "I'm quite comfortable staying here," she says. "I’ve developed a strong connection with the local community and have a lot of friends here. I am in my comfort zone, and I know there will always be opportunities for me here.”
Never saying goodbye
An eye-opening education
Crystal chose CDU for its stellar reputation and unique programs. Eager to make a positive impact on young children, she joined the Master of Teaching Early Childhood and Primary, attracted by its dual focus. Today, the graduate looks back at her decision with pride. “It has strengthened my ability to compare theory and practice across different age groups, shaping me into a more effective teacher,” she says.
