My name is Ah Ling. I am currently studying Tourism Business and Event Management at Mae Fah Luang University, in Chiang Rai, Thailand. I was born in Loijal, a small town in Kachin State, in the northern part of Myanmar. My parents were farmers, but they later sold their farms and moved to another city to work as merchants in order to support our family.
I completed my primary education in Hpakan, Kachin State. After that, I continued my middle school education and also attended a Chinese school in Muse, Northern Shan State. Because of the poor quality of education in that region, my parents decided to send me to Mandalay for better opportunities. So, I continued my higher education and began studying for a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at Mandalay University.
Unfortunately, my education was interrupted by the COVID pandemic. I was a third-year student at the time.
Later, political unrest in Myanmar caused more uncertainty and challenges. I found myself lost and uncertain about my future, education, career, and even my family’s situation.
I decided to continue my studies in Thailand in 2024, which pleased my family. I chose Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) because it offers international-standard education, with a wide range of programs for students to choose from. MFU has a peaceful, green environment with reasonable tuition fees compared to other universities. It is a home for many Myanmar students, which helped me feel comfortable adapting to a new country.
I come from a family of three siblings. My older sister is married, but she continues to support both me and my younger sister in our education. My younger sister is currently in high school, preparing for the GED exam. Supporting both of us at the same time has become a heavy financial burden for my family, especially due to rising inflation in Myanmar. At first, my family planned to support my studies for four years, but now they are facing difficulties continuing to pay my tuition fees.
About Ah Ling
- Age: 25
- Ethnicity: Shan
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Mae Fah Luang University
- Bachelor’s, Tourism Business & Events Management
- 3rd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become a tour guide and events planner
- Travel to China
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,450
- Amount Left To Fund: $2,450
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
To support myself, I am currently working part-time at the M4U Center under the Global Relations Division at Mae Fah Luang University. However, my income is not enough to cover my tuition fees and living expenses. Because of this, I have been actively searching for financial support to continue my studies.
I learned about the Zomia Student Loan through a senior student who is currently also a recipient. The Zomia Loan supports students from Southeast Asia who face financial difficulties but hope to continue their education. It offers flexible repayment, which makes it a valuable opportunity for students like me. With this support, I would be able to focus more on my studies without financial stress. I have a strong belief that this loan will help me complete my bachelor’s degree.
I am a hardworking and responsible student who is trying to achieve my academic goals. I always try to improve myself, communicate well with others, and adapt to new environments. With support from Zomia, I truly believe I can complete my degree and build a better future for myself and my family.
Written by Ah Ling with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Ah Ling
“I found myself lost and uncertain about my future, education, career, and even my family’s situation.”
