Postgraduate Research Student Profile
Quoc Phuong Dinh
What are you studying in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning
I am working toward a PhD degree in architecture and planning. It involves understanding and maintaining the identities of place. Particularly I am interested in the influences of local culture on city architecture in Hanoi.
What did you study before commencing your studies at the University of Melbourne, and at which institution?
My Bachelor degree was in architecture from Hanoi Architecture University (HAU) in the late 1990s. I worked in architectural practice for two years before I came to Melbourne University to study then obtained a Master degree in architecture (research) in 2003.
What interested you in coming to the University of Melbourne? What attracted you to the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
I first knew about the university through some academic staff from HAU and the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, the University of Melbourne. Then I came to know that Melbourne University is one of the leading Australian Universities that can provide me with excellent study environment. Research and "life" experiences from my master candidature have convinced me to stay and go on for my PhD at Melbourne University.
How are you finding your experience at the University so far? What are the highlights?
My experiences at the university are very good. I think that I came to the right place to study. I have had a lot of encouragement from my supervisor and other academic staff and students who find my research interesting and promising. Highlights here include having the opportunities to present my research to the "world" by attending international conferences and workshops. Another highlight is my teaching experience. Tutoring and lecturing in undergraduate courses are always useful lessons.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your studies at Melbourne?
Being an academic in Vietnam is my long-term plan. My "ambition" is to connect my research work to professional practice, even though I understand that doing academic work and practice at the same time is very difficult. But I'll see how it will go!
What advice do you have for other students thinking of studying in the Faculty?
My advice for other students thinking of studying in the faculty is this: if you intend to study in Australia, Melbourne University is the right place for you!