Breaking Barriers – Bùi Nhật An’s Unlikely Path to AI

Breaking Barriers – Bùi Nhật An’s Unlikely Path to AI

From business strategist to AI trailblazer, Bùi Nhật An’s journey shows how curiosity, courage, and a scholarship from RMIT can unlock bold new paths — even for those without a technical background. Here’s how he made the leap.

When Bùi Nhật An first came across the Master of Artificial Intelligence at RMIT Vietnam, he paused — not out of lack of interest, but uncertainty. 

He read through the program details with curiosity, even excitement, but a familiar voice crept in: “Is this really for someone like me?”

An had built a strong career on the business side of tech — working with fast-moving companies like Fossil Vietnam, Gojek, and OnPoint E-commerce. He already held an MBA in Entrepreneurship from IAE Paris – Sorbonne Business School. He had led high-impact data projects, and was working at the intersection of strategy and digital solutions. But when it came to AI, he felt like an outsider looking in.

Still, something kept drawing him back. A recent project — leading the development of a generative AI chatbot — had sparked something deeper. It wasn’t just a curiosity. It was a calling.

Even with that spark, the doubts lingered. Could someone with a business background really thrive in such a technical field? Could he stand out in a competitive scholarship pool filled with engineers and coders?

What helped him push through was the encouragement he received from those around him — colleagues, friends, and the RMIT admissions team who saw his potential and urged him not to hold back.

That honesty paid off. His story resonated — and he walked away with a scholarship that became more than financial aid. It became a symbol of trust, belonging, and new possibilities. 

Bui Nhat An, MAI student Bui Nhat An, MAI student

The scholarship that became a turning point

Once in the program, the scholarship became a daily source of motivation — especially when things got tough. As someone coming from a non-technical background, An often found himself outside his comfort zone.

RMIT’s supportive environment made a difference. Professors were attentive and the course delivery was thoughtfully structured. Even challenging subjects like Discrete Mathematics were made approachable — with a mix of clear explanations, hands-on exercises, and plenty of space to ask questions and strengthen understanding.

“The content is extensive yet practical, with an adaptable learning curve — especially for students like me.”

The scholarship didn’t just open the door — it gave An the support and belief he needed to walk through it with purpose.

A mission bigger than himself — and what comes next

Even while still in the program, An is already turning knowledge into impact. As a lecturer, mentor, and speaker, he actively shares his journey with students across Vietnam — especially those who, like him, might not see themselves as “tech people.”

Whether he’s teaching at UEH University, judging student competitions, or mentoring aspiring analysts, An brings the same message: AI isn’t just for coders — it’s for anyone ready to learn, adapt, and build something meaningful.

That message doesn’t stop at the classroom. With graduation on the horizon, he’s already planning what comes next: a PhD, the continued rollout of AI-powered solutions in business, and new projects designed to help professionals upskill in practical, accessible ways.

But behind all of An’s ambition is a well-rounded, curious spirit. A solo traveller who’s explored nearly 20 countries, he finds joy in cultural discovery, local cuisines, and connecting with people from all walks of life. That same curiosity drives him in the classroom, where he brings energy not just to learning, but to sharing what he’s learned with others.

From hesitation to confidence, from curiosity to capability — Bùi Nhật An’s journey is proof that the right program, and the right support, can change everything.

27 April 2025

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