Visit Family Connect
Visit the Family Connect webpage for useful information and resources
Read the guide
Read the 2025 Guide for Parents and Families
Updated March 2025
Dear parents and families,
We are excited to welcome both our new and returning students back to campus this semester, which marks the first semester of 2025 - the 25th anniversary of RMIT in Vietnam. This milestone celebrates a quarter-century of growth, innovation and achievement. We look forward to a semester full of exciting events and experiences.
In this edition, you will find:
We hope this newsletter helps keep you informed and strengthens your role as supportive RMIT parents, guiding your students on their journey toward independence, growth and preparing for work and life.
RMIT Vietnam Family Connect.
It is important for your student to keep track of their academic dates and deadlines. Below are some important dates for parents and families to know. The full Higher education important dates - RMIT University is available on the university website.
Date |
Milestones |
|---|---|
| 28 February | Tuition Fee Invoices for Semester 1, 2025 issued |
| 03 March | Semester 1, 2025 begins |
| 14 March | Last date to add courses |
| 21 March | Deadline for payment of tuition fees* * Applied to 12-week courses |
| 28 March | Last date to drop course(s) or take a Leave of Absence* * Without a penalty fee |
| 7 April | Public holiday |
| 10 April | Hanoi Graduation Ceremony |
| 14 – 18 April | Saigon South Graduation Ceremonies |
| 30 April – 4 May | Public holidays |
| 16 June | Results released |
Vietnamese students who register for health insurance through the university will have their insurance card extended for the year 2025, starting from January 2025. The insurance fee for 2025 is included in the Tuition Fee Debit note for Semester 1, 2025. Students can check their insurance information through myRMIT. If students have not registered for health insurance and need assistance, they should contact Student Connect for support as soon as possible.
This information is always accessible to students on myRMIT, including adjustment invoices if there are any changes in course enrolment. It is the student’s responsibility to share this information with parents and families, if necessary. Payment methods and detailed instructions can be found here.
Please remind your students to remain vigilant and aware of financial scams. Encourage students to verify information through the official RMIT website and to contact Safer Community to report any suspicious activity. Read more here.
Student Connect is a fantastic first point of contact for any queries students might have, whether it is about courses and programs, confirmation letter, or tuition fees. As students learn to actively seek advice and support, they are getting better in managing their student life and prone to be more successful at university.
This year’s Club Day was extra special as we celebrate RMIT Vietnam’s 25th anniversary. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for students to make new friends, connect with their peers while enjoying exciting performances, artistic displays, and cherished traditions. Notably, the event showcased over 40 clubs at SGS campus and nearly 18 clubs at the HN campus, offering students a chance to explore their interests and discover new passions.
If your students are interested in global experience opportunities, it is time for them to get prepared. The virtual fair is organised by the Global Experience – International Office team from 19 - 20 March with varied sessions.
The RMIT University Library offers academic assistance, personalised consultations, and peer mentoring services to its students. Additionally, the “Essential Library Skills” workshop is a live, interactive series that teaches students effective research, referencing, academic integrity, information evaluation, and using tools like EndNote and Mendeley. These skills help students excel academically and in assignments.
Date: Every Tuesday and Thursday (until March 27, 2025)
Time: 11:00 AM
If your students want to bridge academic insights and industry best practices in Vietnam’s competitive coffee market, encourage them to join this strategy forum to meet and connect with leaders from Milano Coffee Vietnam, Every Half Coffee Roaster and Lacàph Coffee.
This year marks RMIT Vietnam's 25th anniversary. Since 2000, we have built a vibrant community of over 12,000 students, 1,300 staff, and 22,500 alumni, united by a shared vision of empowering individuals and driving positive change.
As we celebrate this milestone, we warmly invite you, our valued parents, to join us in commemorating this achievement, as your partnership with RMIT has played a vital role in our students' success.
SVVN - MedVoice, an AI-driven solution developed by RMIT students from the School of Science, Engineering & Technology has great potential to revolutionise medical record-keeping by automatically converting speech into text. This innovation not only enhances workplace efficiency but also allows healthcare staff to dedicate more time to their primary focus – patient care.
The event aims to welcome parents and families of new RMIT students, providing useful and necessary information to connect and accompany parents in the journey of supporting students transitioning to university.
00:00:03
Good morning, dear parents. My name is Ngoc Anh, and I am the Family Connect Manager at RMIT University Vietnam. Today, I am very pleased to accompany you in this event welcoming the parents and families of new students for the first semester of 2025. I hope that today's event will provide you with valuable information about the learning environment at RMIT, as well as the resources and support available to students during their transition to university.
00:00:29
Today's program is designed to give parents as much information as possible. With your support, we believe that new students will gain more confidence in their transition to university life. The agenda today includes the following parts: first, a welcome speech from the Director of Student Experience and Success at RMIT Vietnam, followed by a session on RMIT learning and teaching. Next, we will explore the resources and support services available for students at RMIT Vietnam, and finally, we will have a panel discussion on transitioning to university, effective communication, and supporting students.
00:01:03 Now, to start the program, I would like to invite Mr. Scott McDonald, Director of Student Experience and Success, to deliver the welcome speech.
00:04:17 Dear parents, Mr. Scott has just shared heartfelt thoughts for students as they embark on their journey at RMIT. I will now translate his speech as follows:
Good morning, dear parents and families. It is an honor to welcome you to RMIT University Vietnam, where your children are taking their first steps on their university journey. This is not only a significant milestone for them but also a major moment for you as parents.
00:04:47 As parents, you have always been there to encourage, guide, and support your children through every important stage. Today, we are not only welcoming new students but also celebrating the love and companionship that you have given them. This year, as RMIT Vietnam celebrates its 25th anniversary, we reflect on our journey and take pride in the strong community we have built together—a community that values excellence, innovation, and, most importantly, the future of your children.
00:05:16 Your children are now part of an institution that has produced successful entrepreneurs, creative thinkers, and future leaders. We are honored to accompany them and you on this journey. We understand that university is a major turning point, bringing new opportunities but also challenges. Students will learn to be more independent, take responsibility, and embrace change.
00:05:47 As parents, you always stand by your children, but one of the greatest gifts you can give them now is your trust—trust that they can navigate their own path, knowing that they have both their family and RMIT to support them whenever needed. At RMIT, we not only provide a world-class education but also offer a strong support system to help students grow in all aspects, from academic support and career counseling to mental well-being services.
00:06:18 We are always ready to support students throughout their university journey, and we also provide assistance for parents through the Family Connect program, which offers resources to help you support your children while encouraging their independence and growth. We hope you take the time to explore these resources and stay connected with RMIT so that together we can create a meaningful and fulfilling university experience for your children.
00:06:45 Once again, thank you for being here today and for trusting RMIT. We look forward to partnering with you to provide students with a vibrant, enriching university experience. Thank you, and I wish you a wonderful morning and an insightful event.
00:07:17 Now, moving forward in our program, we would like to introduce the session on RMIT learning and teaching. As you may know, RMIT is an international university with advanced teaching methods. To help parents understand more about the teaching approach at RMIT, we have invited Mr. Pham Chi Thanh, a lecturer from the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology, to share key insights on the learning experience at RMIT and how students can maximize their potential in a university environment.
00:08:13
The Computing program belongs to the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology at RMIT University Vietnam. Today, I am honored to present to you the outstanding teaching and learning methods at the university, hoping to provide useful information for parents.
On the screen, you can see a summary of my professional background and working experience at RMIT University Vietnam. Currently, I am both a lecturer and the research team leader for a group focusing on innovative technology in education, within the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology.
00:08:36
I have been working at RMIT University Vietnam for about 13 years and have received multiple teaching awards, both at the university level and globally, for my teaching practices. I specialise in teaching electronics and microchips, while also conducting research on AI applications in education.
Now, let’s get into the content of today’s presentation. First, I would like to introduce to you - the "Active, Authentic, and Applied" (Triple-A) teaching methodology at RMIT.
00:09:05
Let me briefly explain each component of this method, along with some examples. As shown on the screen, the Triple-A model consists of three core elements: Active, Authentic, and Applied learning.
00:09:33
The first element is "Active" learning. One of the key highlights of RMIT is that we encourage students to actively participate in teaching and learning. When designing a course, our faculty members carefully structure lessons to be interactive, allowing students to engage in various learning activities instead of passively listening to lectures.
00:09:57
This approach helps students gain a deeper understanding of the subject by actively interacting, discussing, and debating with their teachers and peers. Such participation extends beyond the classroom, as students continue to develop their skills outside of formal learning sessions.
00:10:20
The second element is "Authentic" learning. As parents, you all hope that your children will be well-prepared for the workforce after graduation. At RMIT, we invest significant effort in designing courses that align with current industry demands.
For instance, in the field of Computer Engineering, artificial intelligence (AI) has been a rapidly evolving area in recent years. At RMIT Vietnam, our curriculum is frequently updated to integrate the latest AI advancements. We strive to ensure that students graduate with up-to-date knowledge, minimizing the risk of being outdated in the job market.
00:11:09
Additionally, students engage in hands-on experiences that mimic real-world workplace environments. These include group projects, presentations, and client consultations, where students work on practical tasks such as designing presentations, preparing financial reports, and developing software products.
00:11:33
Such practical learning takes place not only within individual courses but throughout the entire academic program. From the beginning of their studies, students are encouraged to collaborate, problem-solve, and think critically, ensuring a strong foundation in their chosen fields.
00:11:59
A key component of authentic learning at RMIT is "Authentic Assessment." This means that our assessments are designed to evaluate students’ practical skills rather than relying solely on theoretical knowledge.
The assessments not only measure whether students meet the course learning outcomes but also ensure that their competencies align with the expectations of industry partners.
00:12:23
Another significant feature of the RMIT learning experience is group work. Collaborative projects are not just a one-time activity; they span entire semesters.
At the start of each semester, students form teams and work closely together on assignments. Toward the end of the semester, they present their findings, submit joint reports, and reflect on their learning experiences. This process helps students develop teamwork skills, resolve conflicts, and manage projects effectively.
00:12:47
Moreover, students are required to produce high-quality outputs, which are often evaluated by industry partners.
For example, as shown on the screen, a group of 54 Computer Science students at RMIT Vietnam collaborated with a medical research organization to develop an AI application for healthcare.
00:13:09
Under the guidance of faculty members, the students tackled a real-world problem from a hospital, worked closely with the industry partner, and provided updates every two weeks.
00:13:39
After eight months of dedicated effort, they delivered a final product that was highly valued by the organization. The company praised not only the students' work ethic and professionalism but also the quality of their final solution.
Through this experience, students gained firsthand exposure to working on large-scale projects, which is a valuable skill beyond completing small classroom assignments.
00:14:03
To illustrate this further, I would like to show you a short two-minute video featuring the 2024 graduation project exhibition for the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology. This annual event takes place at the end of each academic term and serves as a showcase of students’ best projects.
00:15:11
As you have just seen, the exhibition video highlights the outstanding work of our students. Every time I watch it, I feel a sense of pride seeing how far they have come.
The faculty greatly appreciates the students' efforts in collaborating with industry partners. To acknowledge their hard work, we organize a closing ceremony where companies present awards and tokens of appreciation to students who have excelled.
00:17:03
This is a prime example of "Authentic Assessment" at RMIT Vietnam. Various academic departments at RMIT adopt a similar approach, ensuring that students continuously develop practical, industry-relevant skills throughout their studies.
00:17:31
Beyond the Triple-A model, I would also like to briefly introduce the "Blended Learning" approach at RMIT.
This method combines multiple teaching formats, incorporating both face-to-face and online learning experiences. It allows students greater flexibility in managing their study schedules while benefiting from technology-enhanced learning.
00:17:55
By integrating these methods, students can prepare for lectures in advance, engage in interactive discussions during in-person sessions, and follow up with additional study materials online.
Additionally, blended learning fosters teamwork and collaboration. Students can coordinate projects and communicate with peers through various platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Canvas.
00:18:47
This approach aligns closely with how modern industries operate. Many multinational companies require employees to collaborate across different time zones and communicate remotely. By practicing these skills at university, students will be better prepared for the professional world.
00:19:10
To conclude this session, I would like to share some practical advice that parents can pass on to their children as they embark on their university journey.
First, setting clear academic goals is crucial. Students should view their studies as a full-time commitment—like a job requiring focus and discipline. Effective time management is also key, as university coursework is significantly more demanding than high school.
00:19:34
For first-year students, the transition to university can be overwhelming. However, RMIT provides various support services to help students navigate this change successfully.
00:19:59
Another important aspect is communication. Students should maintain regular interactions with faculty members and university staff. A simple habit such as checking emails and announcements on Canvas can help them stay informed and manage their coursework effectively.
00:20:21
Lastly, I encourage students to actively participate in group work, not just for academic purposes but also to build professional networks that may benefit them in their future careers.
I hope these insights help you, as parents, better support your children during their university transition.
00:20:50
Thank you very much for your time. Now, I will hand it over to Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Nha, a Senior Student Advisor at Family Connect, who will introduce the student support services available at RMIT Vietnam.
00:21:20
I am a Senior Student Advisor at RMIT Vietnam Family Connect. It is a great pleasure to meet all of you at this event. In the following session, I would like to invite you to explore the various resources and student support services available at RMIT Vietnam.
Through our interactions with parents, we understand that transitioning to university is a new journey not only for students but also for their parents. This transition naturally brings about changes in how parents accompany their children through this phase of life.
00:21:51
From our conversations with parents of new students at RMIT, we have received many questions such as:
Why haven’t I received a tuition payment notice?
Why does my child have so few classes at university?
Why don’t I receive my child’s timetable?
Other broader questions include:
What does a typical day look like for an RMIT student?
How should my child prepare to avoid feeling overwhelmed during their first semester?
As a parent, how can I best support my child during this transition?
If you also have similar questions, feel free to acknowledge this by showing support (e.g., reactions in a virtual session).
Next, let’s find out whether the following information from RMIT aligns with your thoughts or helps answer your concerns.
00:22:25
At RMIT, students have flexible class schedules. The university operates on a trimester system, with three semesters per year, each lasting approximately 12 weeks. Between semesters, students usually have a break of 4 to 5 weeks.
Students register for between 12 and 36 credits per semester, equivalent to one to three courses. As previously mentioned by Mr. Thanh, this may seem like a light workload at first glance. However, in reality, the study requirements are significant.
00:22:59
For every hour of classroom instruction, students are encouraged to spend an additional two to three hours on self-study, research, and group work. Additionally, students are responsible for managing their own course registration and timetables through the university’s system.
00:23:34
Because students must handle various academic requirements on their own, it is essential that they understand their program structure, important academic deadlines (e.g., course registration, schedule adjustments, withdrawal deadlines, tuition payment deadlines).
This raises the question: How does RMIT communicate with students to keep them informed?
00:24:06
As parents, you may already know that university is not just about academic knowledge—it is also about preparing students for their future careers and lives. At RMIT, students learn how to manage information, navigate administrative processes, and build meaningful relationships with their lecturers, peers, and even industry professionals.
This fosters a sense of responsibility and maturity, enabling students to make independent decisions.
00:24:37
In high school, parents play a crucial role as guardians, overseeing their children’s academic and personal lives. However, upon entering university, students gain full control over their academic records and responsibilities.
For example, university communications regarding course registration, scheduling, tuition fees, and even health insurance are sent directly to students via their RMIT email accounts.
00:25:11
Students also receive weekly newsletters with updates about events and activities at the university. Other official communication channels, such as the university website and digital bulletin boards on campus, also help keep students informed.
00:25:44
Ultimately, the biggest change in a student's university transition can be summarised in one word: "proactivity."
They must actively manage their time.
They must take charge of their studies and extracurricular activities.
They must take responsibility for processing and responding to information.
This transition can be exciting but also comes with challenges. However, parents can rest assured that RMIT provides a wide range of student support services—both academic and personal—to enhance their university experience.
Key Student Support Services at RMIT
Library Services: The library plays a crucial role in any university. RMIT has invested significantly in its facilities and resources, housing over 700,000 English-language materials, making it one of the largest English-language libraries in Vietnam. Students also have online access to the RMIT University Library in Australia. The library regularly conducts workshops on academic referencing, a skill that is new to many students but essential for university-level research. Academic advisors are available to help students locate and utilise subject-specific resources.
Academic Skills Support: For students who are unsure about where to start with their academic studies, the Student Academic Success provides a variety of learning support services. This includes one-on-one consultations with academic advisors, assistance with essay writing, research skills, and study planning, guidance on using AI tools effectively for learning. Additionally, students can receive peer support from senior students who have performed well in their courses. These peer tutors undergo training to assist other students in developing study strategies without directly providing answers or completing assignments for them.
Career and Employability: RMIT provides career support services from the first year of study until after graduation. Services include career counseling, resume reviews, job search workshops, mock interview sessions.
Health and Well-being: Students can access confidential counseling services for personal concerns or mental well-being, professional counselors provide support on a range of topics, including stress management and personal development, the university also offers workshops on mental health awareness and self-care strategies.
International Students Support: RMIT welcomes many international students each year and provides specialized support, including Airport pickup services, buddy programs to help international students integrate into campus life. Orientation week activities
Exchange and transfer program. RMIT Vietnam students have opportunities to study abroad in Australia or other partner universities worldwide through exchange programs. Interested students can visit the International Office for consultation and planning.
Student Connect. If students have general questions about: Course registration, Academic programs and Timetables. Student Connect can be reach via: In-person support, Phone, Web chat, Online helpdesk.
00:30:37
One important point to emphasize: students should verify information directly with RMIT if they receive suspicious messages.
Recently, there have been scam incidents targeting students, such as:
Fraudsters impersonating university staff, asking students to transfer tuition fees.
Fake scholarship offers or false study-abroad opportunities.
Scammers claiming students are involved in legal cases and requesting personal information or money transfers.
To avoid such scams, students and parents should:
Verify payment methods on RMIT’s official website.
Never share personal details such as student IDs or bank account information.
Pause and confirm with the university before making any financial transactions.
00:31:38
To help students transition smoothly into university life, we recommend:
Attending orientation week and introductory sessions organized by their faculty.
Joining clubs and social activities to build friendships and networks.
Utilizing student support services and RMIT’s learning platforms to stay engaged and informed.
00:33:16
For parents who wish to stay updated on university events and support their children, we recommend: Guide for Parents and Families (available for registered parents), the RMIT Family Connect Portal, where parents can subscribe to newsletters and event notifications.
Ultimately, we encourage parents to trust and empower their children to take charge of their education and growth. By offering guidance and encouragement, you help them build the confidence and skills needed for their future success.
00:33:47
For those who have not yet registered, you can scan the QR code on the screen to register now.
Beyond simply gathering information, parents can further empower and trust their children so they can develop their potential, strengthen their personal growth, and pursue their goals and values.
We believe that students can engage with the university, express their aspirations, and make decisions. The outcomes may not always be perfect at first, but the independence, confidence, and skills they gain through this process will be invaluable for their future careers and personal lives after graduation.
00:34:20
Finally, we encourage you to listen to your children as much as possible. We believe that active listening and age-appropriate communication are key to fostering a strong connection and providing effective support.
That concludes my presentation. Thank you, dear parents, for your attention.
00:34:53
Thank you, Ms. Nha, for the valuable insights.
Dear parents, I understand that a great deal of information has been shared with you today. If, during the event, you have any questions for the organising team, please do not hesitate to reach out.
You can register for RMIT’s Family Connect Program to receive updates and submit your questions via the official Family Connect email.
00:35:19
Now, we move on to the next section, which I believe many parents will find particularly relevant: how to communicate effectively and stay connected with your children during their university years.
To discuss this, we have invited two special guests today: Nguyễn Khánh Linh, a third-year Finance student. Nguyễn Thảo Tâm, a Psychological Counselor from RMIT’s Student Wellbeing and Mental Health Department.
To start, I would like to invite each guest to briefly introduce themselves. Khánh Linh, please go ahead.
00:36:17
Hello, everyone! First of all, I would like to extend my warmest greetings to all the parents attending this discussion. My name is Nguyễn Khánh Linh, and I am currently a final-year Finance student at RMIT.
Now, I am doing a study exchange program at RMIT Melbourne, Australia. Throughout my time at RMIT, I have had many opportunities to take on different roles, such as helping organise graduation ceremonies and participating as an MC for various university events, including the scholarship award ceremony and orientation programs for new students.
Thank you, Khánh Linh! Now, over to Ms. Thảo Tâm.
00:36:55
Hello, esteemed parents, and thank you for being here today.
My name is Nguyễn Thảo Tâm, and I am currently a psychological counselor at RMIT’s Student Wellbeing and Mental Health Department at the Hanoi campus.
I hold a master's degree in clinical psychology for Children and Adolescents from a collaborative program between the University of Education and an American university.
Throughout my nine years in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with many parents, students, and young adults across different educational settings.
I hope that my experiences can provide useful insights for parents today, helping to support new students as they transition to university life.
00:37:21
Thank you to both of our speakers!
To start the discussion, I would like to direct my first question to Khánh Linh.
As a student who has spent several years at RMIT, how do you reflect on your personal growth since your first year?
Also, since this is the welcoming week for new students, I imagine you must feel nostalgic about your own first day at RMIT.
00:38:21
First of all, I’d like to share that, for me—and I believe for many other students—moving from high school to university is a huge transition.
In high school, when we talked to our parents or other adults in our family, they often still saw us as children.
But when we enter university, we have a stronger desire to assert our independence and prove that we are mature.
00:38:52
For me, the way I demonstrated my independence to my parents was by thoroughly researching RMIT before enrolling.
I created a detailed presentation explaining: Why I chose RMIT, why I picked my specific program, what benefits this decision would bring me
Then, I presented this to my parents to convince them.
After that presentation, I noticed that my parents began to treat me differently—they saw that I was responsible for my own life decisions.
00:39:25
Over time, our conversations became more relaxed. I felt that I was given more freedom to make my own choices.
To me, that was the biggest change in moving from high school to university—it felt like a big leap forward in maturity, and I could sense that my parents also started seeing me as a more independent person.
00:39:58
Thank you, Khánh Linh.
I truly understand and resonate with your experience of transitioning from high school to university.
Now, I would like to hear from Ms. Thảo Tâm.
From a psychological perspective, could you explain this change more scientifically, so that parents can better understand what happens during this transition?
00:40:32
Thank you for the question, Ánh.
I believe many parents here can relate to Khánh Linh’s experience.
During adolescence, young people are still treated as children. But the moment they step into university, they are suddenly expected to behave like adults.
These changes don’t happen overnight. The transition has already begun during their teenage years, and university simply serves as a milestone that makes this transformation more visible.
00:40:58
This transition becomes more apparent at this stage, so I would like to discuss three key aspects of development and change that we can observe in students around the age of 18.
Physical development: Parents will notice that this is the peak period of physical development. At this stage, muscle growth is nearly complete, and in terms of cognitive development, brain size has reached its full capacity.
00:41:26
However, the functional aspects of the brain continue to develop—particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for planning and decision-making. This region of the brain continues to mature until the mid-to-late 20s.
As a result, decisions made by students at this age are still heavily influenced by emotions and often lack long-term consideration.
00:41:51
This explains why students may sometimes make choices that seem irrational or immature. However, this is completely normal because their brains are still developing.
This doesn’t mean we should overprotect them or intervene excessively in their decision-making. Instead, it’s similar to building physical strength—just as exercising regularly strengthens muscles, providing students with more opportunities to plan, make decisions, and solve problems will help develop their cognitive abilities.
00:42:15
The more they practice making choices and dealing with challenges, the more their brain functions will improve.
Psychological and Emotional Development: This is also a crucial stage for the development of personal values, identity, and independence.
As Khánh Linh shared earlier, the desire for independence is very strong at this age.
00:42:42
Students begin to prioritize their social relationships, such as friendships and romantic relationships, over their dependence on family.
At the same time, they develop skills in problem-solving, adapting to new academic environments, selecting majors and career paths, and managing their time effectively.
00:43:18
Thank you, Thảo Tâm, for your valuable insights.
I now understand that this transition is not just about physical growth but also involves significant psychological and skill development.
With that in mind, my next question is for Khánh Linh: Given these internal changes, how have you maintained open communication with your parents? Could you share a personal experience to help parents understand?
00:43:49
Yes, of course.
My situation is a bit unique. Since I was in second grade, my older brother and I moved to Hanoi for school, meaning that we lived apart from our parents for a long time.
00:44:23
For me, the biggest challenge in communicating with my parents was the physical distance—we couldn’t talk face-to-face as often.
My mother always reminded me, “Now that you’re grown, you have to be independent, figure things out on your own, and make your own decisions.”
At the same time, she also emphasized that she and my dad would feel much more at ease if my brother and I could proactively update them about our lives.
Even though they wanted us to be independent, they still wanted to know that we were okay, happy, and doing well.
00:44:56
Back in middle school, I didn’t communicate with my parents very frequently—I was too busy having fun! But at that time, my life mostly revolved around school, so there weren’t many major challenges.
However, when I transitioned to high school and university, I faced many new challenges, so I made a conscious effort to stay in touch with my parents.
00:45:29
I started messaging them on Zalo, making video calls, and updating them about my life.
Whenever my parents asked, “What’s new?”, I made an effort to share more details, and if I had difficulties, they gave me advice.
00:46:01
That’s really heartwarming! I can see that you have a very close bond with your parents.
Not all students are as open and communicative as you, though. Some students are naturally more reserved, and they might hesitate to share their thoughts with their parents.
So, I’d like to ask Thảo Tâm: How can parents adjust their communication approach for students with different personalities? What strategies can help parents encourage their children to open?
00:46:29
Yes, I must admit that I’m a little envious of families like Khánh Linh’s, where there is a strong bond and open communication.
One fundamental formula for effective communication is:
Effective Communication = Communication Style + Relationship Quality
00:46:58
This means that even if you have excellent communication skills, they won’t be effective if the underlying relationship with your child is not strong or positive.
If parents and children don’t have a habit of regularly talking to each other, or if the child rarely shares their thoughts, then expecting them to suddenly open and share everything is unrealistic.
Strategies for Effective Communication is to create a Safe and Supportive Space. Always make it clear to your child that you are there to listen and support them. Maintain a calm and patient attitude during conversations. Use positive and reassuring language to encourage dialogue.
A great example is how Khánh Linh’s parents handled her transition—they acknowledged her need for independence but also gently invited her to stay connected by sharing updates.
00:47:56
Practice Active Listening: Pay close attention to what your child is saying. Avoid interrupting, judging, or dismissing their concerns. Use non-verbal cues (nodding, eye contact) to show you are engaged.
Use "I-Statements" to Express Feelings: In English, this is called an "I-Statement", which helps express feelings without sounding judgmental.
For example:
Instead of saying:
“You’re always coming home late and don’t care about the family!”
Try:
“I feel a bit worried when you come home late often. I feel sad that we haven’t had a family dinner in a long time.”
00:49:18
By using this approach, you: Express your emotions clearly. Describe the situation objectively without blaming the child. Encourage dialogue rather than triggering defensiveness.
00:49:48
Build Stronger Parent-Child Bonds Through Shared Activities: Find an activity that your child enjoys, whether it’s music, sports, or movies. Engage in this activity together to create natural moments of bonding.
Even if your child initially declines the invitation, that’s okay! Respecting their decision sends a strong message of trust.
And one day, when they are ready, they might invite you to join them in an activity they feel comfortable with.
00:50:39
Using these approaches not only creates a positive communication environment but also helps children feel understood, respected, and encouraged to open.
Thank you, Thảo Tâm, for these insightful tips!
I believe parents can easily apply these strategies in their daily interactions with their children.
00:51:07
These suggestions can help parents communicate more effectively with their children during university life.
Khánh Linh, after hearing Thảo Tâm’s insights, do you recognize similarities with how your own parents have supported you? Do you feel a sense of connection with these ideas?
Khánh Linh:
Yes, absolutely.
At the beginning of my university journey, I struggled a lot with making new friends and adjusting to a new environment.
00:51:40
At first, I would just go to class and go straight home.
I didn’t participate in any extracurricular activities, and I didn’t really get to know anyone.
As a result, I felt quite lonely.
Even though I continued updating my parents about my life, I was hesitant to share anything too negative—I didn’t want to worry them.
00:52:11
However, somehow, my mother could still sense that I wasn’t as cheerful or energetic as before.
One day, she sat down and had a long conversation with me.
Eventually, she gently guided the conversation back to my emotions, which gave me the chance to finally open up about the challenges I was facing.
00:52:43
She reminded me that adjusting to a new environment is never easy—it takes time.
She also said something that really resonated with me:
“At the start, you were so excited about RMIT. You even made a detailed presentation convincing us why this was the right university for you, highlighting all the great opportunities. So why not take advantage of those opportunities now?”
She encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone—even something as simple as joining a student activity could help me meet new people.
00:53:12
That conversation really made me reflect.
Why wasn’t I taking the initiative?
After that, I decided to volunteer for university events, helping to organize different activities.
To my surprise, through these experiences, I found a wonderful group of friends.
Even now, we are still as close as family.
00:53:42
I think this is a valuable lesson for both parents and students.
There will be difficult moments, but having parents who are willing to listen and offer encouragement makes a big difference.
That conversation with my mother gave me the motivation I needed to start actively engaging in university life.
Once I overcame that initial hurdle, everything started to change.
00:54:12
Of course, different families have different approaches to supporting their children.
Some parents prefer to take the lead—they call the university, gather information, and relay it back to their children.
That is one way to help, but…
00:54:41
If parents do everything for their children, students might miss out on the chance to develop problem-solving skills and independence.
After all, learning how to seek out and interpret information is an essential life skill.
So, the big question is:
How can parents strike a balance between offering support and allowing their children to develop independence?
00:55:09
Ultimately, both parents and universities want the same thing: to equip students with strong skills, to help them build healthy habits and to give them the motivation to stand on their own two feet
00:55:37
I would love to hear from Thảo Tâm on this topic.
How can parents provide guidance while also encouraging independence?
Thảo Tâm: That is one of the biggest challenges for parents!
There are two key messages I’d like to share: Children have the right to make mistakes and Parents have the right to worry.
00:56:06 Mistakes are a natural part of growing up. The best thing parents can do is give their children opportunities to learn from mistakes. At the same time, parents should be there to guide them, not control them.
00:56:33 A great example is Khánh Linh’s family—her parents created a space where she felt safe discussing challenges without fear of criticism. This allowed her to analyze situations, weigh options, and ultimately make her own decisions.
00:57:03 As for parents—of course, worrying about your children never stops, no matter how old they are! That’s completely normal. But the key is: Turn worry into trust. Even if you feel concerned, make sure your children also feel trusted and supported.
00:57:33
Sometimes, students hide their struggles because they don’t want their parents to worry. However, this silence doesn’t reduce parental anxiety—in fact, it often increases it. When students withdraw, parents tend to push harder for information, which can create tension.
00:57:58 But at the root of all of this is love and concern. Children hide struggles because they love their parents. Parents want to help because they love their children. That’s why it’s so important to talk about this dynamic openly.
00:58:30 One way to visualize this balance is through the "riding a bicycle" analogy: Parents cannot ride the bicycle for their child forever. But they can ride beside them or behind them. Students decide their pace and direction. Parents provide support and guidance, but they let their children take control.
If students know their parents are always behind them, they will feel confident and secure in their journey.
00:59:29 That is why we emphasise the importance of parental support throughout university life. When students feel emotionally secure, they are more likely to embrace challenges and grow.
01:00:03 In addition to family support, students also have access to university resources. At RMIT, we don’t just offer academic programs—we also provide comprehensive student support services to help students with: Learning support, Clubs & extracurricular activities, Mental health & well-being, Career development and Administrative assistance
01:00:30 Everything is designed to help students adjust and thrive in university life.
01:00:58 At first, I was too shy to use these services. I knew RMIT had psychological counseling, career support, and academic assistance, but I didn’t actively seek them out. Looking back, I regret not taking advantage of them sooner.
01:01:24 Eventually, when I started using counseling services, I found them really helpful. There was a time when I was overwhelmed with event planning, and I started feeling stressed. I visited the counseling center, and they gave me great advice on managing pressure.
01:01:56 They taught me that feeling stressed isn’t necessarily bad—it’s about finding ways to handle it effectively. After that, whenever I felt stuck, I would go there for guidance.
01:01:56 Stress isn’t necessarily overwhelming because there are ways to calm these emotions and manage these feelings. I also received valuable advice on what to do in difficult situations. Honestly, I really appreciate this service because whenever I face a challenge, I can just go to the center and ask for help. Whenever I have difficulties, I go there, ask for advice, and I always feel much better afterward. Another service I really like is Job Shop, which focuses on career guidance and job opportunities.
01:02:25 That office actually helped me secure my first job on campus. I really love my job here.
Moderator: Thank you, Khánh Linh. It’s true—our university offers many services, but students often need time to adjust and get familiar with them. At first, transitioning from high school to university can be overwhelming. Students learn about many available resources, but they need time to figure out which ones suit them best.
01:02:55 Specifically, Health and Wellbeing offers a range of services. However, many students only recognise the name of the student services without fully understanding each specific service.
I’d like to ask Thảo Tâm to share more details about this health and well-being support service so that parents can better understand how the university supports students.
01:03:24
Yes, earlier, Ms. Nhã already introduced various student support services. Now, I’d like to focus on well-being services for students. Whenever students face emotional concerns, mental health struggles, or psychological distress, they can seek support from Wellbeing.
To clarify for parents, these services are voluntary, confidential, and designed to empower students to seek help proactively.
There are three main support services within Wellbeing services
01:03:53
Counselling and Psychological services Students can receive one-on-one counseling for emotional, cognitive, academic, or relational concerns. Our team offers appropriate support based on students’ needs. If long-term therapy or medication is required, we may refer students to external specialists. We also organize group discussions on mental health, well-being, and personal development.
01:04:21
Equitable Learning and Accessibility: This service ensures equal learning opportunities for students facing chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, neurodiversity, or disabilities. It provides customised academic accommodations to help students succeed in their studies.
Safer Community: This service is available to all students and staff at RMIT. It allows them to report inappropriate behavior, including violence, bullying, harassment, and online scams. Whether incidents happen on-campus or off-campus, if they affect student safety, they can and should be reported. The team provides supportive measures to maintain a safe university environment.
01:05:17
These services are always available, but many students may hesitate to seek them out. That’s why parental support is essential and can help students feel comfortable to seek support.
01:05:52
Any noticeable changes in students' thoughts, behavior, or emotions may indicate underlying challenges or mental health struggles.
Parents should recognise these signs and gently encourage students to seek professional support.
01:06:24
First, parents should create a safe space for open conversations, so students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and struggles.
Second, parents should normalise mental health discussions—mental health struggles are just as important as physical health concerns.
However, parents should avoid minimising students’ feelings.
01:06:52
For example, saying things like: "Don’t overthink it—everyone feels sad sometimes.", "Back in my day, life was even harder." These kinds of comments can make students feel like their problems aren’t valid, which may discourage them from opening in the future.
01:07:18
Instead, parents should acknowledge their child's feelings and create a supportive environment. By doing so, students will be more likely to seek professional help—whether from university counselors or external mental health services. This ensures they receive timely and effective support.
01:07:44
Thank you, Thảo Tâm, for such detailed and valuable insights. We’re now reaching the final part of this parent-student discussion. To wrap up, I’d love to hear some final thoughts from both Khánh Linh and Thảo Tâm.
01:08:15 First, I’d like to address parents directly. I truly appreciate your time and attention during this discussion. As a final-year student, I hope my personal experiences provided some insight into how we think, how we behave, and what we need from our families.
01:08:46
As students transition to university, I hope parents will allow us to make mistakes, fall and get back up, learn from experience and grow. By trusting us more, you empower us to become independent and confident individuals. Thank you so much!
Moderator: Thank you, Khánh Linh. Now, Thảo Tâm, any final thoughts?
01:09:26 Thảo Tâm: Yes, I’ll keep it short. I just want to reassure parents that RMIT offers a wide range of support services to help students. I hope parents and students will feel confident and supported as they embark on this meaningful journey together. Thank you!
Moderator: Thank you, Thảo Tâm, and Khánh Linh, for taking the time to share your experiences and insights. We hope this discussion has provided parents with practical ways to support and communicate with their children throughout university.
01:10:24
We also received some questions from parents, such as: How can students participate in exchange programs abroad? What are the requirements for studying at RMIT Melbourne or at partner universities?
For these questions, we recommend that students contact the International Office, which support student exchange programs.
01:10:50 Students typically need to complete their first year before they can study abroad. We encourage students to reach out in advance to learn about application requirements so they can prepare accordingly.
01:11:16
Parents can also encourage their children to research study-abroad opportunities independently. For additional information, parents can visit Parent Guide, RMIT Family Connect webpage and the official RMIT website.
01:12:31
All program details are available in both English and Vietnamese for parents and students to explore together. This concludes our discussion.
01:12:58
Thank you so much for taking the time to join us today. We truly appreciate your commitment to supporting your children’s education. We look forward to seeing you at future events, where we will continue to share valuable information for parents.
The Family Welcome Day semester 1/2025 has been held successfully with the participation of both local and international parents of new students.
The event offered useful information to new parents about RMIT teaching and learning methods, and tips for new students to study successfully. Also, there were information about student services and resources that are necessary for parents and students to know.
At RMIT, we take immense pride in offering tools, systems, and resources to support students both in academic and personal success. However, we believe that students must shape their own educational journey to be ready for work and life. With the resources provided by RMIT, along with your support and encouragement, students will have the confidence to navigate their path and achieve their best.
Visit the Family Connect webpage for useful information and resources
Read the 2025 Guide for Parents and Families