Additionally, through my volunteering and professional work, I have accumulated approximately 4 years of professional experience in project planning, implementation, and reporting, where I collaborated with multiple stakeholders, including youth, NGOs, and government agencies in the areas of Good Governance, Women’s Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), TVET Skill Development for aspiring and returning migrants, and Migrant Protection with INGOs and UN agencies in Cambodia.

The reason I chose the MSc in Public Policy is that it aligns with my career goal of becoming a Policy Specialist. The programme’s focus on problem-based learning, research methods, political theories, and policy analysis will enhance my critical thinking skills and ability to identify policy or development challenges and develop effective solutions. The course offers an alternative to a thesis - the Policy Analysis Exercise will allow me to work on a real policy problem and propose responsive policy recommendations. Upon my return, the knowledge and experience gained from the programme will help refine my policy expertise to develop interventions and programmes that address development challenges in Cambodia.

One of the most significant benefits of the fellowship is the excellent opportunity to pursue my postgraduate degree in Public Policy. Coming from a working family in the Cambodian countryside, I have always believed that education can change my life. The fellowship offers me the skills I need (critical thinking, research methods, policy analysis, and political theories influencing public policy), as well as networks, which will be very beneficial for advancing my future career in public policy.

Undertaking the MSc in Public Policy at DCU, has taught and exposed me to different knowledge such as critical thinking in policy intervention design; political theories influencing the public policy development and implementation; the policy analysis methods to uncover “Why” specific policies succeed or fail in different social contexts; and the key considerations to apply best policy practices in different social and development settings.

Given the step-by-step support, guidance, and training on pre-departure and post arrival provided by the Irish Embassy in Vietnam and ICOS, my adjustment in Ireland has been very smooth. Although there is a significant difference in the weather, I am adjusting well to it now.

In terms of my studies, I am currently adapting well to the new learning environment, where I need to put in significant effort into self-study, preparing for lectures, and completing assignments. Thanks to the Government of Ireland and ICOS, I am being well looked after during my fellowship and have been provided with additional supports, including training on time management, stress management, culture shock, project management and many social events with IFP fellows.

One of the most significant differences between Cambodia and Ireland lies in the climate. Cambodian weather is usually sunny, hot, and humid throughout most of the year, whereas Ireland has a much cooler climate with frequent rain and unpredictable weather. Occasionally, it feels as though one can encounter all four seasons within a single day. Another notable distinction pertains to the quality of education. Ireland offers a very good educational system; in particular, DCU is well-equipped with extensive resources and employs many highly educated professors whom I can learn from and seek advice on my academic challenges and interests. The university also offers various support services and extracurricular activities, including student societies and clubs, the student union advancing student interests, counselling services, career guidance, writing and referencing support, and seminars complementing lectures, among others. These resources have been significant in assisting me, as an international student, to adapt and overcome academic challenges during my time here. Finally, another apparent difference is the environment and public spaces. Ireland offers many accessible public libraries, green parks and walking paths. Even within the big city, particularly in Dublin, parks and green areas are very accessible, providing spaces for walks and exercise before or after my studies.

During my fellowship, I am committed to enhancing my policy expertise. Through the MSc in Public Policy, I am confident that I will be adequately equipped with research, critical thinking, writing, policy evaluation and development skills, which are essential to level up my expertise and policy related career upon return.

Additionally, I am hoping to do voluntary work where I can apply knowledge learned from university and at the same time learn more about how NGOs or INGOs are working to address pressing policy issues in Ireland, such as migration, refugee, poverty, and homelessness. This could be a great opportunity for me to immerse myself in the approach used to tackle these social development challenges in Ireland and identify ways to connect this with my study and future work in Cambodia upon my return.

There are several favourites of the fellowship that I would like to highlight. One of my favourites is the pre-departure orientation organised by the Irish Embassy in Vietnam. It was when the excitement started, when other Fellows and I connected with the Ireland Fellows Programme Alumni, to get practical tips on how to adapt socially and academically in Ireland. For instance, what to pack and what not to pack, as well as living and studying tips. Another one is the Ireland Fellows Programme orientation and cultural immersion. The event was a great venue for all Fellows to learn more about Irish Aid and ICOS’ work and impact, study tips in Ireland, gain practical experience from a former Ireland Fellows Programme Fellow, and participate in a cultural immersion trip.

I firmly recommend all potential and eligible candidates in Cambodia to apply for the Ireland Fellows Programme. Based on my personal experience as an applicant and now one of the Fellows, I am grateful with the amount of support and guidance given by both the Irish Embassy and ICOS throughout my application process and now during my fellowship. The programme is well-designed in which each Fellow is fully funded with tuition, living stipend, airfare, insurance, etc., to pursue a one-year master's degree. I would say this is a life-changing opportunity to experience the high quality of education in Ireland, hone one’s skills, build networks, gain practical experience in Ireland and the EU, and return with the skills needed to advance one’s professional career. The inclusiveness of the programme enables eligible candidates from all walks of life, regardless of their identity, disability, and profession, to apply.

Beyond the academic studies, Fellows can take time to explore different counties in Ireland, where there are many interesting foods, parks, cliffs, castles, bars, mountains, waterfalls, and more. In short, the Ireland Fellows Programme is an exceptional opportunity to study, grow, and experience Ireland in a way that can positively change Fellows’ perspectives. Here are my few tips for the prospective applicant:

1. Read and understand the eligibility criteria: a deep understanding of the programme information and its objectives are key to better address the application questions and help you to stand out among other applicants
2. Have a better understanding of your course of interest and how your learning outcomes will help you achieve your future professional goal upon return, benefiting your country and strengthening the bilateral relationship between your country and Ireland
3. Start the application early to give yourself enough time to tailor your application draft
4. Seek advice from Alumni (if you know them), professors, or colleagues, to help improve your application draft
5. For the interview: review the answers to your written application and prepare responses to possible and/or follow-up questions that may be asked during the interview.