Confidence, community and career goals: May’s UQ experience

May, a motivated student from Vietnam, is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Management / Bachelor of Commerce at UQ. She chose UQ because of its unique double degree in accounting and marketing, a combination she could not find anywhere else. Moving to Brisbane at 14, May completed high school in Queensland before starting university, ready to take on new challenges.

Overcoming challenges and building confidence

The shift to university life tested May, especially during her first year when asking for help felt hard. But by her second year, she had built strong friendships, gained confidence and discovered how to use UQ’s academic support services. Regular chats with professors and advice from the student centre helped her navigate difficult subjects and grow academically.

Finding support from teachers and friends

May speaks highly of UQ’s approachable professors and tutors who break down complex topics into manageable steps. Their support played a crucial role when May struggled to keep up. Thanks to encouragement from senior students and friends, she learnt to proactively ask for help, a skill that transformed her university experience.

A summer internship found at UQ

May secured a summer internship at a tax accounting consultancy, which she discovered at a UQ industry networking event. The internship challenged her to learn new systems and processes, but her studies gave her the technical knowledge she needed to thrive. This hands-on experience is preparing May for a successful career in accounting.

Building networks and community connections

Networking has become a cornerstone of May’s university life. She actively participates in the Australia-China Youth Association and the Chinese Student Society, where she has formed valuable friendships and found a strong community. She is also eager to grow her overseas network, hoping to take on a UQ exchange in China.

Ready for the future

UQ has opened many doors for May, offering her opportunities to build skills, confidence and networks that will shape her future. With her practical experience, academic support and strong community ties, May is well on her way to a bright future.