1. Could you tell us about yourself?
I am a junior pursuing a dual degree in International Relations and Diplomacy at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) and Political Science at Fort Hays State University (FHSU). Raised in a family where encouragement and support are abundant, taking a step into the unknown, whether it be in academia or the professional world, was more exciting than scary. This comfort allowed me to always be courageous in trying new experiences. From those experiences, I found my passion and the career path I want to pursue – that is, research and advocacy.
2. Could you tell us about the achievements you are most proud of?
With a passion for academic research, I am currently undergoing two fellowships. I am doing a public policy fellowship with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, in which I published a commentary titled “Made in Cambodia: Bridging the Gaps in Agro-processing for an Export-Oriented Industry” on the Khmer Times and am drafting a policy brief on intra-sectoral diversification pathways for Cambodia. Simultaneously, I am also undertaking a six-week research fellowship with the Center for Khmer Studies in Siem Reap, focusing on genocide studies. Besides my interest in research, I have also participated in numerous model conferences, such as the International Model United Nations in Singapore and Indonesia, the Model ASEAN Meeting at AUPP, and the Regional Climate Diplomat Workshop in Ho Chi Minh City, where I had the privilege of representing Cambodia. Besides academic activities, I still maintain active engagement within the AUPP community by taking leadership roles such as being the President of the first mandate of the Student Association for the International Relations and Diplomacy Department at AUPP and organizing the first International Model United Nations at AUPP, which will be the biggest university-led model conference in Phnom Penh.
3. Could you tell us about one thing or experience you encountered that changed your life?
The one experience that had the most impact on me has to be my first apprenticeship as a research assistant at the National Institute of Diplomacy and International Relations. This opportunity has contributed to my academic growth and has opened many doors of opportunity for me, especially in the field of research. This apprenticeship allowed me the privilege to contribute to ministerial work such as researching the contents for policy memorandums and reports on current world affairs – even in a small way. It helped me gain a better understanding of the ever-changing global issue, helped me develop necessary skills in doing research, and my mentor has been a tremendous help in my career, whether in my process of applying to programs or connecting me with people.
4. Who is the person you look up to the most?
Within my time at AUPP, the people I look up to the most must be the professors of the International Relations Department, Dr. Rose-Jensen, who has ardently supported me through my academic journey both in the classroom and the real world, from Singapore International Model United Nations to my research fellowship with the Center for Khmer Studies. As well as Dr. Ong, whose invaluable insights and guidance have helped me tremendously in my research and writing. Their dedication to their work and the growth of their students has truly been inspirational, which I wish to reflect in my wonderful experience with them when I start my career in academia.
5. What are the steps you took that led you to where you are right now?
The three steps that led me to where I am right now are self-discipline, social networking, and courage. It is a challenge to balance intensive schoolwork and extracurricular activities, especially when those activities involve research, organizing events, or traveling abroad for competitions. But amid deadlines and stress, it is important for me to remember that my hard work will come to fruition, and the reward will compensate for those difficult times. This self-discipline has always pushed me through the difficult times and discouraging moments, as well as teaching me how to manage my time better so that I don’t have to trade off my school life for my passion or vice versa. Social networking has helped me tremendously in joining prestigious programs, both academic and extracurricular. The people that I’ve met, whether through my AUPP professors or programs that I’ve joined, have all played an important role in helping me move closer to the career path I want to pursue. But no matter how much support I can get from others, I must also have the courage to undertake new opportunities and persevere through the challenges.
6. What are the happiest moments of your life?
If I were to reduce all the happiest moments of my life into one moment, it would have to be my research fellowship with the Center for Khmer Studies – a six-week journey away from home, immersed in research and meeting new people from different walks of life. Those six weeks have been a transformative chapter that has reshaped my perspective on life, both academic and personal. Academically, I had learned so much from my peers, instructors, and researchers, especially from the discussions we had in the classroom about our readings on the different intellectual approaches to Khmer studies and the new perspectives these individuals brought to the conversation. Moreover, my instructors, who have given me support, advice, and guidance on my research project, have truly helped me gain a better understanding of the different techniques of doing research. Although research can be both intellectually and emotionally exhausting, there is a quiet thrill in waking up every day knowing that I am pursuing something that I am passionate in and knowing that I am contributing to the preservation of memory and pursuit of truth. But this experience has been more than just an academic milestone. As I surrounded myself with aspiring young scholars, researchers, and resource people from archives and documentation centers who have dedicated their lives to the preservation of memory, justice, and truth, I felt that I was rushing against time to define my future. But after hearing the fascinating stories of my instructors and other scholars and the multiple lives they’ve lived, I realized that I don’t need to have my life all planned out and that it is never too late to pursue my passion beyond the discipline of my major.
7. Is there any advice for the people who look up to you?
The advice I would give to young people who are trying to navigate adulthood and the professional world, especially to become someone they can be proud of, is to have courage. Remember to never let the possibility of failure shy you away from taking up new opportunities, as every step you take and new person you meet will lead you closer to your dream.