Ellie finds business opportunities and a new home in Darwin

Ellie Do has lived, worked and travelled through a large chunk of the world but, it was the tropical climate and the opportunity to study at Charles Darwin University that made her choose Darwin as her new home. 

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree from the Universite de Toulon in France, Ellie lived, worked and travelled across 15 countries in Europe, Asia, North America and Australia. She had lots of great experiences, but nothing measured up to Australia. 

I have wanted to study and live in Australia, right from when I first visited the country to see my sister a few years ago. 

But while she had spent time in other parts of Australia, she was yet to experience Darwin. Until a fateful internet search led her right here. 

"I came across Darwin and the Northern Territory on the internet and got to know this as a tropical city in Australia. I love tropical weather because it reminds me of my second home - Phu Quoc island – a southern island in Vietnam where I worked for two years," explains Ellie.

With the promising thought and yearning for a tropical climate, Ellie was soon on her way to Darwin. 

I was happy to find that Darwin has a lot to offer. It is peaceful, the people are friendly, and I just love the vibes.

A start-up success story

Enrolled in a Master of Business Administration (Professional Practice) and growing up in her parent’s business, Ellie knew she wanted to start her own venture.  

So far, she has worked in freelance video production for hospitality and tourism providers in Vietnam and is currently doing social media marketing for a booming hospitality venue at the Darwin Waterfront.  

But that’s not all. 

"While studying at CDU, I also started my own online business selling saffron imported from Iran across Vietnam and Australia. I now have a team of 16 people who are my distribution members in Vietnam and Australia (Darwin, Canberra, Sydney and North, Central and South Vietnam)," explains Ellie. 

With that level of commitment and success, Ellie is sure to make it far. She has some advice for future international students looking to study at CDU. 

My advice is to never stop looking around for job opportunities. Online, walk-in, and word-of-mouth are all worth a try.  

"It’s important to expand your social network and gain local work experience. It not only gives us a little bit of extra cash to pay for our bills but also help students immerse into the local workforce and create a foundation needed once they graduate," she says. 

Learn more about studying at CDU as an international student.