Sophearith Keo

2015 graduate of the UTS Master of Arts in Communication Management

“In 2006 I was inspired by a brochure given to me by a UTS professor visiting Cambodia and I immediately planned to improve my English proficiency. It took me almost five years to make my dream a reality, but in 2011, I was granted the Australia Awards Scholarship to undertake a Master of Arts in Communication Management at UTS. This was the most rewarding experience of my life.

“Australia has an excellent education system and a UTS qualification is very well recognised, especially in the area of media and communication. I gained practical industry experience, and being based in the heart of Sydney, I had convenient access to transport and amazing food.

“My time at UTS was exceptional. The teachers were approachable and sympathetic. They made me feel comfortable and gave me time to adjust to the new educational environment. The first semester is usually the most difficult time for an international student, but the UTS professors supported me and helped me build confidence, which has contributed to my successful career today.

“I now lecture part-time, teaching Communication and Public Opinions to MBA students at the National University of Management. I am also the Alumni Engagement Coordinator at the Australia Awards Cambodia. My career progression has been driven by my Australian qualifications. I understand the Australian higher education sector and my UTS course developed my ability to think globally and act locally.

“My master’s degree broadened my worldview and equipped me to work within a multinational and diverse environment. I gained a lot of experience and valuable knowledge from my classmates who were already professional communication practitioners in corporations and government institutions. Since completing my degree, I have produced a variety of comprehensive communication strategies for government departments, UN agencies and other international NGOs in Cambodia, and I have observed an increased confidence in my abilities as a result of my qualifications.

“My biggest challenge in undertaking a communication degree was my English competency. English is my second language, and I am so thankful for the unforgettable support from the UTS HELP program and the excellent assistance of the International Student Support Office.

“My degree was a life changing experience and I encourage international students to seek out UTS, its high standard of teaching, and quality professors. I not only earned a qualification and a good job, but an incredible opportunity to advance my career and experience life in a global, multicultural environment.”