Meet our Vice-Chancellor Scholarship Recipients.

Hello my name is Mai Anh from Vietnam, and I’m studying a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).

My biggest aspiration is to give back to the communities that shaped who I am, be it through big or small contributions. By being a mental health professional, I aim to apply my executive thinking and psychological knowledge to enhance the mental wellbeing of specific Vietnamese communities through non-profit educational projects.

The Vice Chancellor Scholarship will not only accelerate my journey toward my life goals and dreams but also stands as a powerful affirmation of my path, offering me guidance when I become lost in my journey.

Why study in Australia?

I was first drawn to Australia by its reputation for a well-rounded education system. As I delved deeper, I became captivated by a lifestyle that emphasises balance and well-being - a refreshing contrast to what I am used to.

Also, as a mental health advocate, the Australian holistic approach to mental healthcare and the high rate of mental health literacy intrigues me deeply and perfectly resonates with my career aspirations.

After nearly a year of studying in this city, I am still in awe of Adelaide’s setting sun – my daily companion on my way home. The city possesses a unique charm that embraces me in both its beautiful nature and warm community.

What is your favourite subject or project that you are currently working on?

Right now, through my leadership role in the Vietnamese Student Association (VSF), I am working towards a shared goal of making our community at Flinders more inclusive, connected, and enriching. Being an international student myself, I profoundly empathise with the emotional struggles of stepping into new world thousands of miles away from home. I hope that through VSF, I can create a welcoming environment where people feel they belong to one another, finding a sense of “home” in this new city.

Get to know Mai Anh

My favourite things

When I am not studying or working, I like to dive into the culinary world. For me, food goes beyond life sustenance – it is a window into the soul of a culture. Each flavour carries a story, a history, and the beliefs of its people.

Favourite film

My favourite film is The Taste of Things by Trần Anh Hùng.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why?

I would do anything for the power to revisit my childhood and relive those rainy days when a bowl of mom’s nui sườn is enough to make the sun shine again

Tell us something about your culture that you are looking forward to sharing with other students?

One thing that I eternally take pride in is the love our Vietnamese people are capable of. Back home, we are raised in a deeply rooted solidarity that was passed down through generations.

Ensuring you have eaten all three meals when you are sick, giving you the larger half of a cookie, quietly supporting you – that is how we show “I care about your wellbeing”. And, it is this spirit of caring and sharing for the community that I would like to share with others.