Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology

My name is Nghia, and I am currently a student in the TNE program at Ho Chi Minh University of Technology, in collaboration with the University of Technology Sydney.

The reason I decided to join this program is mainly because of the cost. I’ve always wanted to experience studying abroad, but the tuition fees and cost of living in another country are quite high and not affordable for my family. When I discovered this program, I realized it offers significant financial support, making it much more affordable compared to studying overseas.

Back in high school, my teachers guided me step by step and focused heavily on students. Now that I’ve transitioned to university life, I’ve discovered that I need to do everything on my own—manage my time, build connections, and take responsibility for my learning. Fortunately, this program has introduced me to many great friends who are ambitious and passionate about our field, which is AI. Studying alongside such motivated peers makes me really happy.

I also want to give credit to my parents. When I was very young—around four or five years old—they pushed me into an English-speaking environment and made learning fun. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Starting at a young age is the best time to learn a new language, and thanks to them, I adapted easily.

Moreover, I’ve always loved watching American and British movies. I believe those movies helped me communicate naturally and speak like a real person in everyday life. Finally, I strongly believe in hard work. If you study hard enough, you can achieve anything you want—especially when it comes to learning a new language.

My name is Nguyen Huu Nhan, and I am currently studying Artificial Intelligence in the international joint programme between Ho Chi Minh University of Technology and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

Previously, I considered studying abroad, but after researching, I realised it did not fully align with my personal goals. Later, I discovered this programme by chance and found it perfectly suited to both my aspirations and my family’s circumstances. That is why I decided to join.

I have been interested in AI since childhood, inspired by characters such as Doraemon, Chainsaw Man, and virtual assistants in science-fiction films. This curiosity led me to develop a strong passion for technology in general and AI in particular. I also recognise that AI is a global trend with enormous potential, and I believe it will shape the future. My goal is to master this tool and secure a strong future for myself whilst contributing to the world.

When I achieved this milestone, I was surprised, proud, and deeply grateful. It feels rewarding to see my efforts pay off. I am also thankful to my friends and family for their unwavering support, which helped me succeed.

My strongest subjects are Mathematics, Physics, and English—three essential areas for anyone pursuing IT-related fields. Mathematics and Physics require deep understanding and research into fundamental principles, while English is crucial for international programmes. Beyond grammar and vocabulary, we need practical experience through extracurricular activities, real-world programmes, and reading articles to develop balanced skills. English will be a vital tool for students aiming for global opportunities.

For those considering this programme, I recommend disciplined and proactive learning. Be prepared for challenges and maintain a strong mindset. The AI programme with UTS is demanding, so you need determination and resilience. During three months of the last summer, I have been revising Mathematics and programming because they are core foundations for AI and IT studies. In the future, I plan to actively participate in academic projects—both large and small—to improve m

Well, to me has been a great experience so far and the reason is that uh I really believe that universities are wonderful places. I had the opportunity to uh you know interact with people from the team online but it's not designed. So I've been so happy to uh join this place in person and started to meet people and build a bit of relationship that to me has been really a great step forward this trip here and I thank you very much by the way for the hospitality and the kindness I received from the support I received from boundaries. I think it's potentially a great program for the very simple reason that I believe there is a concrete opportunity uh to bring the best of the two worlds. So it's an ideal situation um to export let's say the UTS model elsewhere but also to customize it given local culture and also local education system. I think it's a great opportunity for both parts but especially for our students and we really hope to be able to deliver the maximum value for them because at the end of the day they are our main stakeholder and I really believe we have this opportunity and let's hope they will be as happy and optimistic as I am some opportunity during those days to interact with student in different contest um in a you know in a meeting involving everyone but also in a number of one-to-one meeting um in which they had the opportunity to discuss with me whatever they wanted and vice versa. I also had the opportunity to ask them a few questions. I have to say that their level of communication in general terms is very good. They are very uh proficient in English and this helps very much. But beyond that, I've perceived a fundamental curiosity and a a genuine interest in better understanding their program and the future paths and all the opportunities for their life inside this program. In general terms, I also receive a degree respect for the educational system and for educators. It's something probably cultural uh but it's always well received from this side. Uh they are extremely polite. and kind so you know it's impossible not to not to notice that and this was my very first uh impression. Yeah. So what I have um noticed evidently I'm not their teacher so I cannot speak about what happened in class properly but from their questions and especially from their answers I have deducted a very positive attitude and sometimes in life regardless of opportunity you have or you don't um attitude make can make the difference and in my opinion this is an extremely good indicator and encouraging for you know what their future and their final out once with you.