Where are you from, and what are you currently studying, or have you studied, and at which institution?
I’m from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I completed my Bachelor of Design (Illustration and Animation) at the University of South Australia. After finishing my degree, I did an online course in UI for Mobile Games through Art Soup Workshop in Vietnam.
What has your timeline in Adelaide looked like?
I arrived in Adelaide in September 2018 and completed an English course at CELUSA at UniSA later that year. I started my studies in design at UniSA in March 2019. During my second year, I joined a Vietnamese student group, VISA, where I designed logos and posters. I graduated in April 2022 and enhanced my skills by studying UI for Mobile Games. In late 2021, I landed a full-time job as a UI Designer at Tantalus South, where I’ve been working ever since.
What motivated you to choose Adelaide over other Australian cities for your studies?
I had the option of either going to Sydney or Adelaide, as I have relatives in both cities. I chose Adelaide because I felt the city’s peaceful and calm nature suited my personality better than the busier atmosphere of Sydney.
How did you select your course and institution, and what resources or support services have you found most helpful at your institution?
I’ve always loved drawing and wanted to pursue a career in art or design, so I searched for a university offering courses in this field. UniSA was a perfect match. The support I received from the lecturers and teachers at UniSA was invaluable. They were always willing to help with any problems, and the industry professionals who visited to give talks were also a huge benefit, providing real-world insights and critical feedback.
Describe a moment when you felt truly at home in Adelaide.
I started to feel at home in Adelaide when I began working at Tantalus South. Despite the good food and kind people, I realised that having a meaningful career made all the difference. Once I had a purpose and a place in my field, I really started to embrace Adelaide as my new home.
If you were to take a friend on a day trip around Adelaide, where would you take them and why?
I’d take them to Glenelg or Henley Beach – both are stunning spots with beautiful beaches. I’d also visit Hahndorf, a quaint German town with lovely European-style houses, and Harbour Town for some outlet shopping with great deals. Read more about the things to do in Adelaide here.
Where do you currently work, and what are your future aspirations?
I’m currently working as a full-time UI Designer at Tantalus South, a video game development studio. I love what I do, as it combines my childhood passion for drawing with my career. In the future, I hope to continue developing my skills and advance to mid and senior artist roles.
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