Growing up in a small town in Myanmar, I experienced firsthand the challenges that many people in rural areas face, including poor housing conditions and inadequate infrastructure. These experiences sparked a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others through the field of architectural interior design. My passion was ignited by my love for creating pencil sketches of home layout plans, playing with town model kits, and making small hand crafts. However, due to my parents’ expectations for me to pursue a medical degree, I was unable to study architecture but to learn nursing.
During my nursing practice, I frequently found myself pondering ways to enhance the design and functionality of healthcare facilities to create a better, cleaner, and healthier space. I strongly believe that the environment in which patients receive care can significantly impact their well- being and recovery.
Improved lighting, ventilation, and ergonomic furniture can make a tremendous difference in the patient experience. I envision facilities that are not only safe and functional but also aesthetically pleasing, with a welcoming and calming atmosphere. My passion for nursing and interest in healthcare facility design will undoubtedly drive me to pursue my goal of creating a better healthcare environment. My dream of becoming a designer and improving the healthcare industry motivated me to take this next step in my career.
I eventually learned the design software from an architect friend, then joined a diploma class for interior design after graduating from nursing. It certainly was a big step for me to transition from nursing to the design field, but I am grateful for that turning point in my life. I had excited to see where this career path would take me. Over the years, I have gained valuable work experience in Myanmar and Singapore, but I felt that in order to progress to the next level of my career, I needed a more formal academic background in interior architecture.
About Shorea
- Age: 33
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi
- Bachelor’s, Interior Architecture
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Become an interior architect
- Design a small village
- Travel to India
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $3,350
- Amount Left To Fund: $0
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: Repaid in Full
Quotable
What Others Are Saying About Shorea
Through connections with organizations, I have become aware of the critical need for architectural and cultural contributions to help refugees in the border region between Thailand and Myanmar. I am committed to participating in programs and initiatives that can help to improve the standard of living for these individuals while also incorporating local cultural traditions and practices.
For this reason, I applied for the Bachelor of Interior Architecture program at the School of Architecture and Design (SoA+D) at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT). While studying in Thailand, I have participated in school programs focused on research and case studies related to Karen refugee camps in Thailand. I hope to join international organizations that are dedicated to improving living conditions and developing sustainable architecture in the Asia Pacific region.
To achieve my long-term ambition of contributing to the development of the standard of living in Myanmar, I plan to participate in programs and organizations that focus on sustainable, economy, and environmentally friendly building practices. I also aim to incorporate local culture and traditions into designs, utilizing local products whenever possible.
Through hard work and dedication, I hope to create innovative designs that prioritize safety and benefit the people of Myanmar. I recognize that this will require ongoing learning and development. Therefore, I am committed to pursuing advanced degrees and staying up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
In conclusion, my personal experiences and dedication to helping others serve as inspiration for my future work. By leveraging skills and knowledge, I can make a meaningful impact in the lives of others and help to raise the community though the standard of living and healthcare facilities in Myanmar and beyond. I am eager to pursue my passion for interior architecture and contribute to the development of sustainable, culturally sensitive, and innovative design solutions.
Written by Shorea with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Shorea
“I strongly believe that the environment in which patients receive care can significantly impact their well-being and recovery.”