Returning for Cambodia’s Development – Serey Vathana

It’s beyond belief that time is slipping away quickly! I’m grateful to the Australian Government for the opportunities provided by the Australia Awards Scholarships. I’ve been truly honoured to have been selected as an Australia Awards scholar, and one of the first cohort of the Aus4ASEAN Scholars Leadership Program.

I’ve been able to experience various aspects of life, including being a student, working as a professional and exploring Australia’s fascinating places, especially beaches. What excites me the most is that both my IFL and Australian degrees are valued, so I was able to embark on professional work in Australia as an ELICOS teacher at various colleges and a casual early childhood educator at many childcare centers and kindergartens while continuing my studies.

 

Although I’m now looking forward to returning home, I know I’ll miss my tutors and friends, different languages people speak, public transportation, the beautiful beaches, stunning mountain scenery, and especially the smiles, the laughter, and the beautiful voices of my children. I’m glad that I chose the right scholarship and the right country to pursue my degree.
Cambodia is my home, and I can’t wait to share my overseas experiences with my family and friends upon my return.

 

I wish to thank my mentor, a Cambodian AAS alumnus, for his encouragement and generous support throughout the scholarship application process. Without him, I’d not have had the opportunities, especially witnessing the amazing aspects of Australia.

 

Serey Vathana
Master of Education
Monash University, Australia