Degree: Diploma of Commerce + Bachelor of Property and Real Estate/Bachelor of Commerce
Current position: Assistant Valuer at a property valuation firm
My name is Nhu Tran and I am from Viet Nam. I studied a Diploma of Commerce at Deakin College and a double degree in Bachelor of Property and Real Estate/Bachelor of Commerce at Deakin University. I am currently employed at a property valuation firm as an assistant valuer.
I wanted to pursue a double degree at Deakin, but as a mature student, I lacked the confidence to start directly at Deakin University due to a 5 year gap since my last studies in Vietnam. Fortunately, Deakin College offered a Diploma of Commerce with 8 core units that could be transferred as credits to the university therefore I decided to start there.
Deakin College was like a stepping stone to my career. I was able to learn the basics of report writing, researching, communication skills, and foundational knowledge, enabling me to transfer to the second year of university. These skills also helped me enter the Australian workforce. The teachers and mentors were nice and helpful. The programs were detailed, well-instructed, and easy to follow.
I gained foundational knowledge about commerce through 8 core units, including finance, accounting, law, etc. Crucial soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, research, and analysis, which I am applying in my current work as well as personally.
The extracurricular activities at Deakin College were essential. I participated in the Student Liaison Mentor program at Deakin College and undertook 2 internship/volunteer jobs outside Deakin during my studies. These experiences were valuable as they enabled me to apply the knowledge, and hard and soft skills I developed from my academic studies to a professional environment. They also helped me cultivate a strong sense of adaptability. Overall, extracurricular activities were fun and useful for personal and professional growth and I’m glad I did them.
Deakin College has a diverse range of cultures so I got to explore, study, and make friends with people from various backgrounds. This experience has deepened my understanding of other cultures, including their foods, study styles, ways of thinking, and behaviours. It has expanded my worldview, enhanced my adaptability, and deepened my appreciation for different perspectives.
Both Deakin College and the University have workshops, mentors, and programs designed for various aspects. I attended the workshops and received help from people. The most challenging aspect is finding an internship or securing the first job. I utilised most of the resources available at Deakin, and they were useful.
My advice to future students would be find the area that you enjoy learning and working in. Create a proper plan on how to reach the job you want and start working on it, beginning from your first year. Utilise as many resources and as much help as possible from the College and University. Don’t be afraid to ask questions even if your English isn’t perfect. Talk to people and keep connections with your classmates, lecturers, and others. Participate in as many extracurricular activities, internships, and volunteer opportunities as possible.