Christina Ngo| Bachelor of Commerce

Originally from Vietnam, Christina moved to Melbourne to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne.

Now working as an Assistant Accountant, Christina reflects on how the flexibility of the Melbourne Curriculum supported her academic exploration and helped shape her career in accounting.

“The curriculum requires students to take core subjects across different areas before choosing a major,” she explains. “Through that, I was able to discover that I was most interested in Accounting and Finance.”

For Christina, the breadth of the program was central to her experience. Alongside building a strong foundation in commerce, she was able to explore subjects beyond her core discipline. This included studying Principles of Computing, where she developed an understanding of Python, as well as the Commerce and Corporate Law subject that provided insight into Australia’s legal system.

“The flexibility of the curriculum allowed me to not only expand my knowledge, but to also explore my interests,” she says.

Christina began her studies during a particularly challenging time, arriving in Melbourne at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Adjusting to university life in a new country while navigating lockdowns required resilience, but the support structures around her played an important role in easing that transition.

Living in university accommodation helped her establish connections early on, while her involvement in the International Vietnamese Students at the University of Melbourne (IVSUM) provided a strong sense of community. Through these experiences, she built relationships that supported both her academic and social life throughout her degree.

Her involvement with the IVSUM, would later extend into a leadership role as Vice President of Finance. In this position, Christina was responsible for financial planning, budgeting and sponsor engagement, while also contributing to the delivery of cultural and student initiatives.

This experience strengthened her approach to leadership, particularly developing skills in communication, accountability and strategic decision-making.

Alongside her studies and extracurricular involvement, Christina gained practical industry experience through an internship subject at the University. This opportunity led to her first professional role, where she worked all the way up until progressing to her current position.

Reflecting on her transition into the workforce, Christina says the Bachelor of Commerce provided both the technical foundation and transferable skills.

“The degree helped me develop time management, attention to detail and communication skills, which I rely on every day,” she says.

As she continues to build her career in accounting, Christina is focused on developing her expertise in financial analysis, with a particular interest in areas such as forecasting and strategic planning.

For students considering a similar pathway, she highlights the value of staying open to opportunities and making the most of both academic and extracurricular experiences.

Build a support system, stay connected to your culture, and give yourself time to adapt. If you stay proactive and open-minded, studying Commerce can open up a lot of opportunities.