How a VC scholarship supports me to drive change

Kevin Chu, who commenced his Bachelor of Commerce in 2024, received the full Deakin Vice-Chancellor (VC) International Scholarship. Kevin describes himself as ‘truly grateful’ to receive his VC scholarship.

‘Receiving the VC scholarship is a profound honour,’ says Kevin, who is majoring in finance with a minor in economics as part of his commerce degree.

‘I am still in awe of the incredible support we receive not only from the Vice-Chancellor’s Professional Excellence Program (VCPEP) but also from Deakin as a whole. I am excited to be part of VCPEP and eager to use this platform to drive future change.’

‘I want to do what I love, and that is to improve horizontal equity in one way or another,’ he continued. ‘I believe that by understanding finance I can gain another instrument in my toolbox to drive structural change in education. On a larger scale, I believe that an understanding in money and economics will give me the proper foundation to lead other crucial global transitions of our decade.’

‘I am truly grateful for the opportunity.’

Kevin Chu

Studying a Bachelor of Commerce at a top ranked university

Deakin’s Bachelor of Commerce focuses on classroom and practical learning, an approach Kevin embraces.

‘I like to learn by experimentation and doing more than just sitting in a classroom. Now that I’ve begun my classes at Deakin, I realize I couldn’t have made a better choice’ he says.

‘What I have found is that Deakin provides immense support for its students, it is the emphasis on implementing clear and concise systems of learning that truly make me feel like I am provided with everything I need to not only grasp my field of interest, but also exceed my potential.’

Deakin’s business school is highly regarded by industry bodies. It is ranked as one of the top 3 business school in the Australian state of Victoria overall*, and the #2 business school in the state of Victoria for career impact*.

Economics and finance to improve the world

Kevin’s interest in economics and finance began as a high school student in Vietnam. Studying these subjects in his senior school years gave him a better understanding of how society functions, and how minor changes can ripple out to have a global impact. Economics has helped Kevin better understand how many social issues come from underlying issues that need to be addressed first.

This insight is why finance resonates with me; rather than relying solely on public policy to drive structural change, a solid grasp of finance can help shift incentives toward positive outcomes’ he says.

As well as diving into study, Kevin is excited to make new friends and explore academic and social life on campus. He’s looking forward to trying some quintessential Australian foods too – at least, he thinks he is.

‘I have heard mixed reviews about Vegemite and balsamic vinegar chips, so I am eager to try them for myself. Some of my friends say it’s unthinkably horrible, while others love it wholeheartedly, so I guess I will have to decide which friend I’m going to side with soon!’

Are you interested in studying commerce, finance or economics like Kevin? Find our more about our range of business and commerce degrees, with undergraduate and postgraduate options.

References
* AFR BOSS Best Business Schools 2024