PhD graduate Le An: An adoring son and a passion for people development

Le An’s son had just started primary school when she commenced her PhD at RMIT.

Five years on, she is thankful for his enduring love and support, which helped her persevere through the ups and downs of her studies.

“I know how much I owe him, with my long working hours. To my son – I am so proud of you, and you were inspirational throughout my journey,” said Le.

Le’s PhD thesis looks at using digital simulation games to develop employability capabilities for students and workers.

The idea was borne out of her passion for supporting people in the workplace.

“After a decade-long journey in the IT industry across the US and China, I discovered that my true fulfilment came from uplifting and developing people,” she said.

Her research has already created practical outcomes for students, having informed a Bachelor of Business Professional Practice course designed to help RMIT students get work-ready.

“The highlight of my journey was witnessing the transformation in students' engagement when implementing my research findings in the classroom.”

It is incredibly fulfilling to see my work make meaningful impact.

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RMIT graduate Le An

As Le gets ready to graduate, she’s feeling a sense of bittersweet relief.

“It’s a mix of excitement and reluctance. I’m thrilled to embark on new research endeavours and make a positive impact as a Dr – yet I’ll miss the supportive HDR community dearly.”

In particular, she’ll miss her supervisors Professor Gillian Vesty, Dr. Pavithra Siriwardhane and Dr. Chris Cheong, who provided guidance and helped her maintain a positive mindset.

“With the unwavering support of my supervisors and their infectious can-do spirit, I learned to face obstacles head-on, emerging stronger and more focused than ever,” said Le.

Professor Vesty is very proud of everything Le has accomplished.

“Le An has been an amazing student,” said Professor Vesty.

“Her work ethic and dedication to her studies resulted in an impactful thesis, which received fantastic feedback from the examiners.”

As Le looks to the future, she’s excited to continue her research.

“I will continue to delve into my passion for research, and I’m also eager to enrich and empower people around me through teaching and to make a tangible impact in the real world.”

Watch the graduation live stream here

07 May 2024

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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PhD graduate Le An: An adoring son and a passion for people development