“Education is the best investment” is my family motto. My parents encouraged and supported me as a state-school student, helping me succeed academically at every stage.
In 2017, I successfully completed the matriculation exam and enrolled in the Bachelor of Political Science program at the University of Yangon. As my family’s financial situation worsened, I decided to cover my own education and living costs and began working as a tutor for high school students.
My first year of college was difficult. Even though I found that political science came naturally to me, I struggled with academic English and had to work hard to become familiar with new terminology. Each month, I set aside a portion of my earnings to improve my English skills. Through that effort, I gained confidence with the readings and was recognized as the most outstanding student of the school year.
During my time at the University of Yangon, I had the chance not only to study political science but also to connect with people from all different regions of the country. I joined youth-led volunteer organizations, started a community reading club, took debate lessons, and volunteered at the university library. These experiences helped me grow both socially and academically.
In 2020, I was able to attend Nagoya University in Japan as an exchange student. My research experience deepened through work as a research assistant on case studies for the Constitutional Tribunal, and I gained a broader appreciation for the social sciences. This led me to make the decision to start afresh at Chiang Mai University (CMU) and earn a Bachelor of Social Science degree, having come to understand the importance of social science education for Myanmar’s future.
I paid for my first year at CMU using savings, research program income, and work for a media company called Myanmar Column. Finding work that could cover my living expenses while studying was not easy, which inspired me to apply for a Zomia student loan.
About Paul
- Age: 25
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Chiang Mai University
- Bachelor’s, Social Science & Sustainable Development
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Become a researcher
- Earn a graduate degree
- See Blackpink in concert
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $5,825
- Amount Left To Fund: $5,825
- Contract Duration: 12 years
- Status: In Grace Period
I chose Chiang Mai University because I believe the knowledge I gain here will help me contribute to building a new Myanmar. I hope to pursue graduate studies and eventually establish a research group in social science that is open and accessible to young people from across the country. Chiang Mai is a hub where many Myanmar academics, researchers, and journalists gather, making it not only a good place to earn a degree but also a place where I can build the social capital to support that dream.
As an alumnus of the University of Yangon, it has long been my ambition to return to that campus and contribute to its transformation into a hub of knowledge that drives national development. I believe my undergraduate journey in Chiang Mai can serve as a solid foundation to make that happen.
Written by Paul with editing assistance from Holland, one of Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Paul
“While studying at the University of Yangon, I not only regularly attended my professors’ lectures, but also devoured books and scholarly articles to understand political theories and behavior. Because of such diligent study, my academic performance soared.”
Paul
“I hope to pursue graduate studies and eventually establish a research group in social science that is open and accessible to young people from across the country.”