What did you like about the UC program?
“Thanks to the credit system at UC, I had the opportunity to enroll in many interesting subjects, and to pick courses from a variety of subjects. Before the new term began, I had the opportunity to look through all the courses, and along with the guidance from my Dean, I could easily decide which subjects I would study. Also, what I loved the most about UC is the centralized nature of every mid-term and final exam. It is fair, transparent and most importantly, there is no possibility of cheating.”
What did you think of your program’s facilities such as the available technology, resources, and classrooms?
“Program’s facilities are very modern and sufficient. I could easily get myself access to online learning in the E-Library, with thousands of online books and re-sources available to me. Additionally, I could always find useful books on all subjects in the library, where they have been categorized for easy reference. The classroom environment is very comfortable as well, as they are equipped with air-conditioners, fans, LCD projectors, large whiteboards and lots of space for the students.”
What accomplishments did you achieve during your university experience?
“First and foremost, I won a 100% scholarship to study at UC, a well-known and highly recognized university in Phnom Penh. Second, I never failed even a single subject during my university study. No matter how hard a subject was, I could always get through. That’s my greatest accomplishment. Third, the proudest moment was when I was elected as the President of the University of Cambodia Student Senate (UCSS) Mandate 7. I had a great year with all my team members, and we accomplished many things together for our university, other students, and for ourselves. Fourth, I was able to work in many different community projects as a translator, facilitator and project assistant, and had the opportunity to travel abroad namely to the Philippines and India.”
Was there a professor, staff, or fellow student who made a lasting impression on you or helped you when you were here at UC? How? Why?
“Professor In Sophal made a lasting impression on me, and helped me throughout my academic years at UC. He is strict and tough, but kind by nature. He always demands the highest student performance for class-room activities, assignments, and exam papers. Every-thing had to be prepared well in advance to cope with his intensive teaching and grading. Because of him, I read more, researched more, and presented more in class in order to keep pace with my fellow students. I soon realized that his high standards were set in place to train me to be sharp, flexible, knowledgeable and confident in life. I can’t thank him enough, and I will always have admiration for him.”
Do you still keep in contact with any of your class-mates, professors, or staff?
“Yes, I do. I still have good contact with many of my classmates, fellow students, professors and UC staff. Though we have chosen separate paths for work, our friendships are still fresh and cool just as they were when we were at school.”
What was your most memorable moment as a student of the University of Cambodia?
“I have had many great moments in the life as a student at UC. I would say the most memorable moment was Graduation Day. It was the most exciting time to receive my very first academic degree. It was a proud moment to showcase what I had done in my academic career.”
What advice can you offer to incoming or current students?
“I want everyone to start fresh, and to always do your best in everything you encounter. The learning environment of High School must be updated to the tough competitive academic environment of university. You should expect more work, more reading, and more re-search. It is difficult, I know, but the hard work will make you become a better version of yourself.”
What is your current job? Is your current job related to your study program from the University of Cambodia?
“I am currently working as a part-time lecturer to medical students at Chenla University. The course I am teaching is English for Medical, which is not related to the program I took at UC. However, I am currently waiting for employment results from an ASE-AN Training Center within a government ministry. I expect the results in late January or early February. If I get selected, this will be the best career of my life, and I will be able to use my IR degree.”
What are your career achievements you would like to share with students?
“Personally, I think that I have not yet made great achievements in my career yet, but I can proudly say that being a lecturer has given me an opportunity not only to teach, but to share with them many thoughts of how to prepare for their studies, their future career and lives. I want everyone to be brave and to stand up and face his or her failures, accept the truth, and learn from it so that you won’t have to face the problem again. Or if you do, at least you will know how to react and deal with such a problem.”
What career advice would you like to give to stu-dents to better prepare them for the real world? “In the real world, it’s not just good grades that count; you need to have experiences outside the classroom to give evidence to your prospective employer that you are capable of dealing with real situations. Do not lock yourself up in the classroom, and then just come back home. Challenge yourself with real work through volunteering, attending workshops, or creating a group to do something that benefits others. These simple yet remarkable experiences are the background of your performance that proves whether you are ready to compete in the real job market or not. You will feel superior and confident once you are holding your CV that is full of good grades and awesome work experience to show to your future employer.”
Can current UC students/alumni contact you for career related advice? How should they contact you?
I would love to help as much as I can. They can email me at: linda.saya22@gmail.com.”
Describe UC in 3 words?
“Inspiration, wisdom, and leadership.”
What is your lasting impression of UC?
“The very last word I would like to say is thank you to the University of Cambodia, especially to H.E Presi-dent, Vice Presidents, faculty members and all UC staff who have taken part in building a very strong program which has been nurturing thousands of human resources every year since 2004. I am so thankful that I was one of the lucky scholarship winners back in 2009, and one of the qualified degree graduates from this respectful university. May everyone who has been part of my success be blessed with health, prosperity and success.”
