Phoun Sophai

Date of birth: July 17, 1991
University: University of Management and Economics, Banteay Meanchey
Major: Accounting

In Her Own Words

My name is Phoun Sophai. I am 19 years old, born on 17 July, 1991, at Prich Key village, Taphou commune, Svay Chek district, Banteay Meanchey Province. I have 5 siblings, 2 brothers and 3 sisters, and I am the third child in the family. My father, Rom Phao, is 43 years old, and my mother, Mith Huot, is 55 years old. They are farmers.

Before I received a scholarship from Lotus Outreach, my family lived in poor conditions. We had no transportation and no money to buy study materials. I could not go to school regularly, could not study extra classes, and never thought I could finish my high school. 
 
In 2005, I became a GATE scholarship recipient. I was very happy because I got lots of support, such as study materials, shoes, a hat, a raincoat, a bicycle, money for extra classes, health care, a monthly stipend, and so on. Furthermore, GATE staff provided a life-skills training course and allowed me to attend other training and workshops. These benefited me and made me more knowledgeable. 
 
In 2011, I failed the national exam (grade 12).  Due to my passion for learning, I didn’t give up my studies. I continued to study an associate degree in University of Management and Economic (UME) by paying the down payment of the university fee. I met lots of problems and difficulties in my studies due to the high cost of study documents, accommodation, food and so on. This was a big concern in my life because I and my family had to take into account all the expenses.
 
A few months later, I was informed by the Cambodian Women's Crisis Center (CWCC) scholarship team that Lotus Outreach would still support university students, me included. I was really happy to hear good news. There was much support from the donor (Lotus Outreach), such as money for English course, computer course, rice support, documents, food, rental house, and monthly stipend. All of this has made my studies better because I have enough study materials and my family condition has improved.  
 
I give great thanks to the donor for all your support and effort to me since secondary school until university. I have only my study commitment from all my effort to repay toward your big support, and I would like to express my thankfulness for everything that you have done for me. That was meaningful to me, and I wish you good luck, health, harmony, and prosperity.