July 2, 2024: The US Scholars program brings exceptional graduates of the Cambodian Women’s Leadership program to the US for one year of study at Harpswell’s partner institutions. In May, Harpswell Class of 2023 graduates Chea SreyMach, Loy Srey Nit, Phat Solorng and Som Reaksmey finished their year in Memphis at Christian Brothers University (CBU). Srey Nit and SreyMach shared their reflections on their time in the US here:

What is something you learned during your time at CBU?

SreyMach: I learned more than just hard skills in my classes at CBU - I gained important soft skills, especially confidence. My heart used to beat so fast when I talked to someone new, but at CBU, people talk to you regardless of whether they know you. The smile they give often turns into saying “hi” which turns into a conversation. And many times that small smile turned into a friendship that I now carry home.

What surprised you about CBU?

SreyMach: I was surprised by how involved students are on campus. In Cambodia, a university is just a place for students to go and study. University in America is totally different and it gave me a new perspective - there is always something for students to be involved in!

How did Harpswell prepare you for your time at CBU?

Srey Nit: Serving as a team leader at Harpswell for three consecutive years strengthened the communication skills necessary for my time at CBU. Attending Harpswell Critical Thinking classes as an audience member, a presenter and a facilitator in my senior year prepared me well for classes at CBU which are largely discussion-based. Participating in class was easier because of my willingness to contribute and the knowledge I gained during my four years at Harpswell. My Harpswell experiences transformed me from a quiet person to someone willing to share my ideas, which is crucial to thriving in classes at CBU and beyond. 

Was there a favorite moment with your CBU peers where you shared about Khmer culture or Cambodia?

SreyMach: Making friends with people from so many different backgrounds was a highlight of my time at CBU, and I loved sharing Khmer culture with them. I was able to share some traditional dances and our national anthem on Mother’s Day. I never expected my friends to join in as we showed them our dances but they were so supportive and jumped in! I also got a chance to teach one of my friends some words in Khmer, like numbers, “hi” and “thank you.” In the future, they might not remember those words but I was proud to share with them my language. When we first arrived, many of my peers didn’t know where Cambodia is, but after spending time with them, they could locate Cambodia – and some even shared that they were coming to visit!

Do you have a favorite memory of your time as a Harpswell Scholar?

Srey Nit: Being a Harpswell Scholar made it possible for me to travel throughout America, which was my first time visiting a country outside of Cambodia. Traveling to Boston, DC, and NYC were such eye-opening moments and are some of my favorite memories. It was a dream come true getting to see the US Capitol, taking a cruise to the Statue of Liberty, being at the top of the Empire State Building and visiting so many other major sites in the States. 

How do you think Harpswell and CBU will help you in the future?

Srey Nit: It feels like this year has equipped me with life skills I would need at least three to five years to learn otherwise! I’ve realized that no matter where we are in life, we need to learn to adapt to the environment and seek support from people around us. Harpswell and CBU taught me that many things are possible if we have will, determination and a positive mindset. 

What do you hope to do next? 

Srey Nit: I hope to pursue a career in human resources and management. When the right time comes, I would like to continue on to graduate school as education is so powerful and I strongly believe learning never stops.