Putting mental health first: Psychology student is named 2026 international student of the year

A psychology student, who wants to make it easier for people to reach out for mental health support no matter where they live, has been named StudyAdelaide’s International Student of the Year. 

Hildy Tran, 20, from Vietnam, is studying at Flinders University and wants to become a clinical psychologist and researcher so that she can provide personal care and help create systems to support successful mental health in the wider community. 

A volunteer with Lifeline Crisis Support and the Smith Family, Adelaide’s international student community also provided space for Hildy to turn her interests into action. As a former President of the Vietnamese Student Association, she has applied what she’s learnt in the classroom to wellbeing and educational support initiatives for fellow international students.  

As well as being named International Student of the Year, Hildy won the Academic Excellence – Undergraduate category and was Highly Commended for the Community Engagement category. 

This is the 16th year celebrating StudyAdelaide’s International Student of the Year Awards, which are an opportunity to showcase the extraordinary contribution of international students to our state. Quotes attributable to Hildy Tran, International Student of the Year My study experience has strengthened my aspiration to pursue clinical psychology and make mental health support more accessible. 

When people seek help, it’s a very brave thing because it’s not easy to be vulnerable. Growth is not achieved alone but through the encouragement of people who believe in you. And in Adelaide, I’ve found mentors who’ve helped me to contribute meaningfully and develop a sense of belonging within the mental health field. 

People often describe me as a good listener and my greatest strength is to hold space for them and help them understand it’s not weak to cry. But it can be hard to get out of that role, which is why I find balance and recharge with music, sport and cooking. 

Quotes attributable to Jane Johnston, StudyAdelaide Chief Executive StudyAdelaide’s 2026 International Student Awards recognise students, employers, alumni and student associations involved in the state’s international education sector. 

We’re so proud of the amazing achievements of all the students we’ve honoured at this year’s awards. 

International students contribute enormously to our community, while the alumni are making a difference here and in their home countries. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to thank them and recognise their achievements. 

The International Student of the Year Awards were presented by Minister Picton on Friday 9 October at Sky City. 

About StudyAdelaide  

StudyAdelaide is a partnership between industry and government working to increase awareness of Adelaide as an international study destination and to deliver programs to welcome and support international students in Adelaide.   

These include programs to enhance the employability of students and their connections to local employers across South Australia.

StudyAdelaide carries out employer engagement to grow understanding of the ease and benefits of hiring international students and graduates and their importance in meeting the future skills needs of the State.