Anh Thu Le Nguyen
Age: 31
Country: Vietnam
NMIT course: Diploma of Hairdressing Salon Management

Tell us about yourself
Born in Saigon, Vietnam - a nice, small country in South-East Asia . I can speak Vietnamese (my mother language), Japanese and English. I have travelled to Germany, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar . I came to Melbourne last winter, and fell in love with such a lovely city .

What influenced you to study hairdressing at NMIT?
Hairdressing is a job where I can own my business after several years of experience. Especially, being a hairdresser, you can earn money anywhere in the world because people need to have their hair cut. NMIT's Collingwood campus got a brand new salon for our hairdressing course, and the teachers are so helpful to international students.

How did you find out about NMIT?
I did not know about NMIT until I met Mr Truong Doan Man and Mr Hua Mong Nam at the IDP office in Ho Chi Minh City . They are really helpful and professional. They recommended NMIT to me with the course I wanted.

What advice would you give to students considering studying hairdressing at NMIT?
The hairdressing course at the NMIT Collingwood campus is really easy to get to by train, by tram, or even by foot from CBD. This campus is really warm, especially in winter, and cool in summer. Teachers have so much experience. They are helpful and supportive to international students in order for students to understand the lessons. And, especially, the International Office have professional, friendly staff (for example Mr Marcus) who are willing to hear from you to help you solve your problems, your homesickness, everything. You can even talk personally with the manager, Mr Colin, about all of the things you want to share with someone.

What is next for you?
I am going to get the Diploma after 3 more semesters. I already work in some salons for experience and have a dream of owning my own salon in the near future.

What's been the most valuable lesson you've learnt along the way?
Being here in Melbourne and studying at NMIT's Collingwood campus, I have improved my English, social behaviour, and speaking skill with teachers and other students. I've learnt about different things from other cultures. I understand more about myself, about this life and people.