I am studying a master of economics and regional development at UNE. In 2016, I was awarded the Australia Awards Scholarships and got a chance in a life-time opportunity to study at UNE.

Apart from the selection criteria and interview from the Australian Embassy in Myanmar and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia, it is compulsory to pass all written and oral Ministerial Level exams and IELTS score. 

When I arrived in Armidale, I was so pleased to look around. Armidale is very nice, green, clean and also  famous for its cold weather. Conversely, the people from Armidale, they don’t have a cold heart and welcome  international students warmly. 

My life is getting better after receiving scholarships for my masters degree. Before this, my life is full of struggles since my childhood. My mum became a single mother when I was five and she tried very hard to pay for my education. She sells bean sprouts in the market.

In order to finish my high school and university, my dad, grandma, aunties and uncles supported me as much as they could but they were also not in the best position to support me. 

For my school fees, I worked in my uncle’s store during the school breaks and summer. The transportation for me to go to school was trishaw. These challenges pushed me to try hard in my life and I always remember and thank each and every one who supported me since I was five. I always keep in mind that I owe this gratitude and want to return their support one day. 

Fortunately, I got the scholarship in my bachelor degree and also got many distinctions which qualified me for a masters degree. After working three years in the Ministry, I gained another short-term scholarship for English skill from the New Zealand Government. It was my first step for further study in abroad. 

When I got the Australia Awards Scholarships, I felt like I was flying in the sky because I never ever expected to study for a masters degree in a foreign country due to a lack of funds. I do really appreciate and deeply thank from the deepest part of my heart to the Australian Government for scholarship, and the New Zealand Government for English training. 

Apart from studying at UNE, I worked on a farm, restaurant, and cafe and also as a uni-buddy in UNE. I can now help support those who helped me during my childhood and can support charities like the Cancer Council and others.

However, I have sacrificed a lot, including leaving my son who lives in my country, in order to work here. 

Australia Awards Scholarships make my life more beautiful and comprehensive through studying in UNE, gaining work experience and fulfilling my wishes.

Nothing is impossible. If I give up my ambitions since my early childhood, my dreams will never come true.

I love Australia, UNE and Aussie. I will encourage my son to study in Australia when he grows up.