Today, as we celebrate International Education Week, we are featuring Thaung May.

Thaung Ahsar May was pursuing her studies in northern Burma when the military coup in 2021 disrupted her education. After spending time in Japan, Thailand, India, and Sri Lanka, she decided she wanted to go further away to the United States. Thaung chose SPC and has never looked back.

She describes the transition between cultures as relatively easy, thanks to SPC’s accommodating environment for international students. However, Thaung notes that the educational process is significantly different, requiring her to adapt to a new teaching style. In Burma, she describes the learning process as “teacher-focused,” where instruction primarily occurs in the classroom. In contrast, learning at SPC follows a “student-centered” approach, where teachers guide students through key learning points. She discovers essential concepts by collaborating with other students. Although it took some time for her to adjust, she now appreciates the more interactive teaching style she has embraced.

Thaung is enrolled in the Business Transfer Pathway program and plans to attend either St. Thomas University or Minnesota State University, Mankato, after she graduates from SPC. She appreciates feeling safe on campus and values the authentic diversity surrounding her. Additionally, Thaung enjoys recognizing various ethnic minority groups. Ultimately, she aims to start a company that promotes food, clothing, and other items specific to different ethnic cultures.

Excited to participate in SPC’s International Education Week, she plans on bringing “Lakphat Toke” to the SPC Cultures Fair event. She describes lakphat toke as a green tea leaves salad with fermented tea leaves, dry beans, peanuts, lemon, and chili.

Thaung May’s journey at SPC enhances her path to entrepreneurship, highlighting cultural diversity and acknowledging the transformative power of international education.