Creating change, building community

Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) | NUspace City Campus | Graduating 2026

Hoang Nguyen (Carrot to peers) Lam came to Newcastle from Vietnam with a dream to study Social Work. Curious about the world and eager to learn beyond textbooks, Carrot gained knowledge through diverse cultures, people, and experiences. She believed education was a powerful tool for change and hoped to one day use what she had learned to give back to her country.

Inspired by her mum’s sacrifices and driven by a passion for people, she’s making the most of every opportunity university life has to offer.

“Honestly, my biggest inspiration has always been my mum. She’s worked so hard her whole life just to give me the chance to study abroad, something she never had the opportunity to do. So, when I got the chance, I knew I had to take it,” she shares.

Why Newcastle, Australia?

When deciding where to study, Newcastle just felt right. The city reminded her of her hometown, with a calm and welcoming vibe, and not too far from a major city. “Even the distance from Sydney is exactly how far my town is from a major city in Vietnam. It felt like a sign, like maybe I was meant to be here,” she notes.

Outside study, she loves exploring new cafés, keeping active at the University gym (NUsport pool and playing badminton with friends, describing Newcastle as “a relaxing place to study, and there’s always something new to discover.”

Support that makes a difference

For Carrot, the University of Newcastle is not just about the rankings or modern buildings, what really sets the university apart is the care and support offered by teachers, mentors and staff.

She reflects from day one, “I’ve felt supported whether it’s through the Study Support team helping with assignments, or the counselling team being there when I needed someone to talk to. The teachers are approachable and never make you feel like your questions are silly. There's also access to all kinds of resources like 24/7 library, online platforms, even people who help you plan your career.” 

She adds, “It’s the genuine care that makes a big difference. I really feel like I belong here.”

Where it all started

Carrot began her journey at the College of International Education (CIE), which helps international students transition into university life.

“CIE gave me a soft landing. It helped me adjust to the education system, the culture, and the pace of university life. The classes weren’t overwhelming, the teachers were super supportive, and I got to slowly build up my confidence,” she shares.

Her biggest takeaways? Time management, building friendships and networks, joining events and gaining the confidence to speak up and ask for help.

“Thanks to CIE, I didn’t feel lost when I started my degree—I felt ready,” she says.

Building connections and finding belonging

For Carrot, university has been more than just study; it’s been about creating spaces where people feel welcome and supported.

She has taken on a wide range of roles to connect, lead, and give back, including:

• Student Ambassador for the College of International Education
• Pathway Ambassador for the University’s Future Students team
• Content Creator for a University international student page
• President of the Vietnamese Student Association
• Student Representative for her Social Work program
• Social Worker with a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) organisation

She also organised events like Behind the Smile, a mental health initiative supporting international students.

“These connections and conversations have meant everything to me,” she shares.

Why Social Work?

Carrot chose Social Work because she wants to create meaningful change, especially in mental health, disability support, and women’s rights.

“Australia is doing great work in these areas, and I want to learn from that. I hope to take what I’ve learned and help improve lives back home” she notes.

Her degree has provided hands-on placements, real-world case studies, supportive lecturers who “actually care” and valuable industry connections.

“I’m learning how to listen, how to advocate, and how to create positive change in real people’s lives,” Carrot shares.

What’s next?

Carrot’s excited about having the chance to work directly with people whose stories are often overlooked or left behind by society.

As she puts it, “Whether it’s one-on-one conversations, community events, or big social projects, I want to be someone who listens, supports, and uplifts others.”

Her bigger goal? To build a more inclusive, caring society while contributing to global priorities like the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Carrot’s advice for future students?

“There will be hard days. You might feel alone or unsure and that’s normal. But please remember, you’re amazing for being here. You’re stronger than you think. And if it ever gets too heavy? Put it down, rest, or ask for help. You’re not alone.”

Carrot’s experience proves that studying abroad can open doors far beyond the classroom – helping you grow and connect in meaningful ways.

Hoang Nguyen Lam

Carrot’s journey shows that studying abroad can lead to opportunities far beyond academics, helping you grow personally and build meaningful connections.

Whether it’s one-on-one conversations, community events, or big social projects, I want to be someone who listens, supports, and uplifts others