Returning for Cambodia’s Development – Dam Duonglina

I can’t wait to finish my Australia Awards Scholarship, go back home, and help Cambodia. My worldview has been expanded and my critical thinking abilities have been significantly changed by this transformative, world-class education experience. I’m immensely grateful for the connections I’ve made here and the memorable experiences I’ll cherish forever.

 

What I gained the most from my time in Australia was developing critical thinking skills through class discussions, assessments, and reading materials. Also gaining appreciation for different cultures, which has improved my cultural sensitivity and made me more open-minded. Developing the self-assurance to travel alone as a woman was another highlight. I left my comfort zone to travel to different states in Australia and New Zealand, immersing myself in various cultures. I never imagined I could do this alone in a foreign country, but I faced my fears and did it anyway. This experience boosted my confidence and gave me a sense of exploration.

 

The abundance of study spaces is what I’ll miss most about Australia. I love that Australia places a high priority on education and that each town has a public library where residents are free to check out or borrow books. In Melbourne’s Central Business District, where I live, I’m surrounded by libraries and study spaces, providing ample learning opportunities for which I’m very grateful. I’ll also really miss the natural beauty of Australia. As a nature lover, I adore the parks and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Whenever I had the chance to visit other states, the botanical gardens were always my first stop. The unique and beautiful flowers, trees, plants, and numerous parks have been a constant source of joy for me. I’ll miss the convenience of public transport here. The ease of travelling by trams, trains, and buses has been invaluable in exploring different neighbourhoods and making travel easy and efficient.

 

I look forward to utilising my Master of Development Studies in Australia to contribute to Cambodia’s community sector and inspire others to apply for the Australia Awards Scholarships, while also enjoying a slower lifestyle in Cambodia.

 

Dam Duonglina
Master of Development Studies
The University of Melbourne, Australia