Lifelong learner, Tho’s, motivation to pursue STEM

Arriving from Vietnam, Tho studied a Master of Information Technology with CDU while working as a business analyst.

She credits her parents’ influence for her motivation to learn and succeed.

“I am lucky to come from a family full of love and encouragement,” she says. “My parents constantly motivated me to learn, be a better person, and to contribute wherever I live.

Tho’s parents would encourage her to never miss an opportunity to learn and help others.

“My parents have passed away, but their legacy lives on through my unwavering passion for learning.”

Connected to Darwin

During her first year and a half of living and working in Darwin, Tho developed a strong connection to the land and people of the NT. When she decided to study her masters, CDU was the natural choice.

“CDU is a young university that’s constantly working to improve the quality of their courses and teaching staff,” she says.

My lecturers are my inspiration for working, studying, and contributing to the university and the community.

Giving back

Throughout her studies, Tho has been passionate about volunteering and giving back. She is a Study NT Student Ambassador, IT CodeFair Ambassador, member of the ACCEPT team, and President of CDU Yoga Lifestyle Club.

She encourages other students to get involved in volunteering and attending university events.

If you’re studying IT at CDU, I believe the IT CodeFair event is one of the most memorable events that IT students have a chance to join.

“The event is a great chance to network and meet local businesses to find out what type of employees they’re looking for. It’s also an opportunity to learn from peers, listen to professional feedback, and even get an internship or job after the event,” she says.

Encouraging other women

Tho is keen to inspire other students to follow her lead.

“I hope that I can be the student from Vietnam who supports other women from Vietnam who’d like to study IT at CDU,” she says. “I want to strengthen and empower other women in STEM.”

CDU’s College of Engineering, IT and Environment is determined to demonstrate a strong commitment and support for gender equality in STEM courses. Their project, Advancing Women in STEM Courses, takes a strategic approach towards enhancing participation and retention of Women in STEM.

Learn more about Advancing Women In STEM Courses or explore Information Technology degrees at CDU.