Returning for Cambodia’s Development – Pheng Sokmai

Switching into a new discipline tested me in every way. My last semester was the turning point. I completed two research projects that drew on everything I had learned since day one while working part-time, taking on new adventures, and balancing social events. There were moments when I thought I wouldn’t make it, but I kept going and finished with better results than I had expected. Guidance from professors, encouragement from friends, seniors, and the Australia Awards community made the difference.

I’ll miss the mix of demanding study and big adventure: late nights finishing assessments, quiet walks home, paragliding at the Great Ocean Road, skydiving in Cairns, winter treks and camping, summer river swims, and that icy ocean dip where I spotted a stingray.

Study tours to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, plus Australia Awards enrichment activities, helped me build a cross-disciplinary network. I made friends across cultures, learned from classmates and seniors, and was welcomed by New Colombo Plan alumni into Christmas and Easter traditions. The small moments mattered too, from drives between Canberra and Geelong to help move cattle to spotting kangaroos in the bush.

Working part-time sharpened my cross-cultural communication at school and at work. The load was heavy at times, but the support around me turned long weeks and the occasional emergency into lessons I’ll carry home.

I can’t wait to make my signature customised dish for my family and hug them tightly when I see them. I want to show how much I’ve grown, not only in my studies but also in everyday skills like cooking and practical problem-solving. I’m ready to contribute my expertise, inspiration, and wide range of experiences from Australia, starting by listening, learning more on the ground, and offering my skills where they are most useful to make an impact on Cambodia’s development.

Pheng Sokmai
Master of International and Development Economics
The Australian National University

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