I am Hom, from the southern Shan State of Myanmar. I recently began studying Communication Arts at Rangsit University.
Before coming to Rangsit, I graduated from Lashio University with a Bachelor of Science degree. Even after achieving that degree, I had not found my passion. I then completed LCCI diploma programs and worked as an accountant to support my family.
When COVID-19 began to spread in Myanmar, the company I worked for became unstable and I was forced to quit. It was the darkest time of my life. Yet, taking the good with the bad, I found what I truly wanted to do.
That difficult period allowed me to rediscover my passion for learning and personal growth.
I was excited to discover the Communication Arts bachelor’s program at Rangsit University and knew it was the path I wanted to take. My savings from my salary were limited, so I applied for a scholarship and received an offer from Daughters Rising to cover my tuition fees.
It was a risk, and my family worried. I considered the decision carefully, knowing my savings would not last until graduation. Many people suggested I find a new job, as girls my age in my community were expected to be working or married. But I wanted to break those boundaries and prove that Myanmar women can work toward change.
Myanmar’s unstable political situation also limited my ability to find work, so I chose to take the risk and begin a new chapter. Studying at Rangsit University has been a remarkable experience. I have found my passion, gained exposure to a whole new world of education, and made friends from different parts of the world.
About Hom
- Age: 29
- Ethnicity: Shan, Tai
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Rangsit University
- Bachelor’s, Communication Arts
- 4th Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Work in journalism and production media
- Contribute to women’s empowerment
- Travel to China
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $4,375
- Amount Left To Fund: $4,375
- Contract Duration: 12 years
- Status: In Repayment
As I came to understand how different education abroad can be, promoting access to education for minority ethnic youth from my hometown became part of my lifelong mission. Just as Daughters Rising helped me rise, I want to do the same for others who wish to study abroad and explore new horizons. I also hope to use my knowledge to raise awareness about women’s empowerment.
After finishing my degree, I plan to pursue a career in journalism and broadcasting. I have a strong interest in sharing stories and educating the public about important issues, and I believe that career will allow me to make a meaningful impact on society.
Written by Hom with editing assistance from Holland, one of Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Hom
“I wanted to break those boundaries and prove that Myanmar women can work toward change.”
Hom
“Previously, I was nervous and uncomfortable speaking in public. However, through various presentations and speeches at school, I gradually overcame this fear. Now, I can confidently speak in front of large audiences, which has greatly boosted my self-confidence and public speaking abilities.”
