Cracy Than has dedicated her career to teaching, focusing on social justice education at the community centre she founded in her hometown. With increased responsibilities, she took on more roles in management in addition to teaching. This experience motivated her to further her studies and enhance her knowledge in management and personal growth. Her desire to advance professionally and personally, particularly in educational management, research, and academic writing, motivated her to apply for the Australia Awards Scholarship.

Cracy pursued a Master of Educational Leadership at Monash University, attracted by the university’s excellent course offerings and robust support system. Despite Melbourne’s unpredictable weather, she found the quiet suburban environment of Monash perfect for her studies.

Cracy’s academic journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Initially, she faced challenges with her assignments such as learning how to properly cite sources and conduct literature reviews. However, by attending library workshops and faculty-provided training sessions, she quickly adapted to the academic environment.

“The first semester was the most challenging as I focused solely on my studies without engaging in social events. But it helped me improve a lot in research and academic writing,” she says.

The support from the Australia Awards program, including tutoring, was instrumental in her success. Cracy received invaluable guidance on preparing and writing academic assignments. This experience not only helped her stay on track but also enhanced her learning. Additionally, the academic environment in Australia, which encourages self-exploration and discussion, broadened her perspective and enhanced her learning experience.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Cracy’s journey has been the opportunity to interact with international students, especially those from the ASEAN region.

“There are more international students in my class, and I get a chance to understand different international contexts and exchange experiences with them. It has also helped me improve my social interaction skills,” she notes.

Cracy participated in several extra-curricular activities during her studies. She volunteered at her university as a mentor, providing academic and mental support to two new international students. During her final semester, she took on this role for five months and was awarded the Outstanding Mentor Award, voted by her mentees, which is a testament to her commitment to helping others.

Another volunteer experience involved providing tutoring support to non-English speaking students, helping them with their English language studies. Cracy’s prior experience in English language teaching was perfect for this role, and she found it rewarding to support other students. This opportunity also helped her to improve her social skills and gain more friendships. Cracy also took part in various events organised by Australia Awards Myanmar. Participating in the Professional Linkages Workshop provided her an opportunity to network with other scholars and explore First Nations culture in Australia through an immersion activity delivered at the Willum Warrain Aboriginal Corporation in Hastings, Victoria (traditional lands of the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin Nation). Cracy also attended another scholar engagement workshop in Adelaide on Professional Communication, Presentations and Networking which she found insightful and relevant to her needs.

“The speaker was very knowledgeable. He was a great communicator and presenter”, Cracy reflects. She gained new knowledge and information from this workshop.

Cracy believes that participating in these volunteer programs and workshops offered great opportunities and learning experiences as part of her scholarship journey. Cracy advises new scholars to take time to settle in and focus on their readiness for academic life and mental well-being during the initial period of their arrival, and to reach out for support when needed. This will make it easier for them to participate in other extracurricular activities.

Looking ahead, Cracy plans to continue an existing program, potentially on an online platform, focusing on adult education and social justice. She will also consider providing English language training and teachers education. These areas have been identified as needing more attention in Myanmar according to a survey conducted together with her teammate from the community centre. Cracy also aims to improve her research and writing skills to contribute to educational resources, particularly for ethnic minorities in Myanmar.

“During my study journey, I have discovered my passion which is writing. I am eager to enhance my research and writing skills to better serve my community” she shares.

Favourite thing to do in Melbourne? Every day in Australia has been a learning experience for me. I particularly enjoy walking around the campus, appreciating the nature and quiet environment.

Least favourite thing about Melbourne? The windy and unpredictable weather.

Favourite place to eat? I am a coffee lover and like to spend my time at Cafe Corso located near the Monash campus, especially on Sundays.

Insider tip for new scholars? Connect with people in Melbourne. If you like cold weather and are a foodie and coffee lover, Melbourne is the place for you!