Mei Mei Long

My name is Mei Mei Long, I was born in Cambodia, and when I was about six years old, I moved to the United States because my parents believed that the education system in the United States is much better than in my country. It was challenging for me to live in three different households without my parents on this journey. I came from a low-income family without the opportunity to learn in a proper classroom to having a lack of access to resources in my country. I used this experience as my everyday motivation to work even harder, hoping that I can help my family out once I have a good career after college. My first year of the college experience was very challenging due to English as my second language and academic readiness. Especially without being able to see my parents every day can be very stressful compared to many of my peers who have had closure with their parents ever since they were young. I know many students must have had similar experiences as I did, coming from a different country for a better future. I like to tell myself that I should never stop believing, it will be difficult, but every challenge I face is one step closer to success. In Spring 2021, I will be graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Science. In addition to school, I also volunteer at a non-profit organization. After college, I will be attending graduate school to obtain a Master Degree in International Relations.