After completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Melbourne and obtaining a Master's degree from the Paris School of Economics, followed by a fellowship in a research lab at Harvard University, Kim Lan Mallon (Class of 2015) made the decision to delve deeper into economic development and environmental economics through a PhD in Economics. She is currently conducting research in the City of Light, Paris.
Her passion for economics and driving impactful policy changes was ignited by her unique perspective on Vietnam's rapid development. Reflecting on her experiences, Kim Lan shares, "Living in Vietnam, I've witnessed the astounding transformation from a post-war, impoverished society in my mom’s generation to the dynamic, fast-growing one that I’ve encountered. This stark contrast has enlightened me with many questions on how economics works and its impacts, especially on the environment and climate change."
"A pivotal moment occurred in Grade 5 when we were exposed to the documentary 'An Inconvenient Truth,'" she recalls. "I couldn’t imagine how impactful this documentary and the research project after that about climate change has shaped my thoughts and perspectives." She is truly grateful to UNIS Hanoi for exposing her to such a complex topic as environmental issues and conservation at such an early age.
From her community service activities at UNIS Hanoi, particularly interacting with the Peace Village orphanage, she realised how privileged she was, which increased her concern for vulnerable communities. "These activities allowed me to gain valuable insights into the lives of others and reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact," she emphasises.
Kim Lan also fondly recalls the influential role played by her teachers at UNIS Hanoi. She couldn’t forget her math teacher, Mr. Moyale, and her physics teacher, Ms. Renneberg. She remembered many times she annoyed these teachers with her questions and as many times she received their patience. Mr. Hough and Mr. Phi were the ones who challenged her to be the football captain, a role that she thought she would never be able to handle. "They all truly cared about me and gave me the confidence that led me to my PhD today," she reflects.
Equipped with essential skills and inspiration from UNIS Hanoi, combined with unique insights into Vietnam's socio-economic landscape, Kim Lan is resolute in her dedication to addressing economic, environmental, and societal challenges. "My aspiration is to leverage my PhD research to influence policymakers in Vietnam and around the world, advocating for vulnerable populations and effecting tangible policy changes," she asserts.