My name is Meng Kimnang, and I’m 18 years old. I recently graduate from grade 12 with a grade C. I was born in Kadal Province, but I moved to Siem Reap 12 years ago in search of better opportunities. I have 3 older sisters I’m the youngest in my family. None of my sisters were able to finish high school in addition both of my parents also had to stop there, my parents always told me how important education is and encouraged me to study as much as I could.

My family we survive by selling food and small items daily. During my grade 12 years, it was extremely difficult for my parents to support my school need, but I continued to study hard because I knew was the only way I could create a better future. With determination, I completed grade 12, even when it felt impossible.

Because of our financial situation, I knew it would be very hard for me to enter university. Even though we can’t afford the tuition fees. My desire to continued studying has ever dissipated I love leaning and I always push myself to understand new things because education help me grow, improve myself and see the world differently. I don’t want my future to be as difficult as my family’s. So, they don’t have to struggle every day.

During my high school years, I studied hard because I couldn’t afford extra class, so I’m study hard both at school and at home. Fortunately, REACH organization awarded me a financial scholarship that covered the cost of extra classes, which made me very happy. It gave me the opportunity to learn more, as a result, it greatly helped me improve academically until I graduated from high school.