Life is not a fairytale with happy endings all the time; rather, it presents everyone with countless challenges. I have faced numerous challenges in my life that I’ve learned to overcome.
My name is Kay, and I come from a lower-middle-class family of four in Bago, Myanmar. My father owns a snack shop, while my mother is a stay-at-home mom. Our family’s main source of income is my father, who has consistently struggled to meet our financial needs.
My parents have faced difficulties throughout their lives due to a lack of adequate education. They have high expectations for their children and want us to have a better education. I performed well in my matriculation exam, much to my parents’ relief.
After finishing high school, I received a scholarship to study computer systems, web development, and programming at Dataland Technology. These courses helped me discover an interest in software engineering, which I chose to pursue as a career with the intention of contributing to the technological growth of Myanmar.
I discussed my educational goals with organizers and other guests at various education fairs about continuing my studies in Myanmar and abroad. Ultimately, I decided to complete my education in a developed country. Studying abroad will provide me with access to modern educational resources and outstanding lecturers, allowing me to pursue a better education.
Studying abroad will also offer me incredible opportunities that are lacking in my own country. Furthermore, after finishing my studies, I will be able to use what I have gained from my international education to give back to my community.
About Kay
- Age: 21
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Mae Fah Luang University
- Bachelor’s, Software Engineering
- 2nd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become a software engineer
- Travel internationally, including Paris
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,300
- Amount Left To Fund: $1,725
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
My main concern about studying abroad has been the expensive tuition fees. As a result, I began looking for scholarships and student loans for students from Southeast Asian countries. During my research, I discovered several organizations that provide programs to help me prepare for the challenges of studying abroad.
I enhanced my leadership skills by enrolling in a program offered by Myanmar Youth Empowerment Opportunities. Through projects, assignments, and presentations, I gained valuable learning experiences. My communication, professional management, and even basic IT skills improved due to the practical and theoretical components of the courses. This was an excellent opportunity for me, as it provided free classes with a stipend.
Additionally, I applied for financial aid on the Coursera website and learned a lot from classes in sociology, economics, technology, and artificial intelligence. I discovered the critical role that technology plays in education, economics, and the environment, as well as how I might apply my software engineering knowledge and skills in the future.
I volunteered as an English teacher at Run Free Education. During my two years there, I created my own curriculum for each class and provided qualified instruction. This experience helped me gain confidence in myself. I also began my internship as a marketing and communication assistant at ESC Myanmar Institute. During my internship, I was responsible for promoting classes, creating graphic designs, running ads for the organization’s Facebook page, and responding to student inquiries via Messenger.
I also spent two months as a member of the IT team, where I was tasked with creating an online digital skills course and Messenger chatbots for the organization’s Facebook page. Thanks to the abilities of each team member and strong teamwork, these chatbots were successfully introduced to the public.
Having achieved this success, I decided to pursue my studies in software engineering. I am currently studying at Mae Fah Luang University in Thailand. I chose Mae Fah Luang because it provides students access to exclusive innovation events and has excellent resources for those studying software engineering. While in Thailand, I aim to improve my research and analytical skills so that I can develop artificial intelligence programs and application platforms for use in Myanmar.
Written by Kay with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Kay
“While in Thailand, I aim to improve my research and analytical skills so that I can develop artificial intelligence programs and application platforms for use in Myanmar.”
Kaung Thike Soe, Run Free Education Founder
“Kay is the epitome of brilliance! Her sharp intellect and creative problem-solving skills make her a standout in any academic setting. With her leading the way, the future of innovation looks brighter than ever!”
