Alumni Spotlight: Justine R. (Class of 2021)

Justine R. earned a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Politics, History, and International Relations from the University of Nottingham. After graduation, she returned to Cambodia to seek employment and further her education.

Currently, Justine plans to enroll in a dual Master’s degree in Law offered by the Royal University of Law and Economics in collaboration with Université de Paris VIII. She aims to build her career in Cambodia, a country she has grown fond of through years of family visits. To deepen her connection, she plans to take Khmer lessons at the Philippine Embassy.

Reflecting on her time at CIA FIRST, Justine appreciates the impact of the "Habits of Mind" framework on her personal growth. Although journaling was initially challenging, it significantly improved her self-reflection skills. She states, "Being able to think about my thinking and look for ways to improve continually has been helpful in all aspects of my life."

Justine's guiding principle is expressed in her favorite quote by Henry David Thoreau: "Public opinion is a weak tyrant compared with our own private opinion." This belief keeps her true to herself while facing academic challenges.

She advises current students to seek help and build meaningful connections. "Don’t be a stranger and don’t be afraid to ask for help. I couldn’t have achieved so much without reaching out to others." Justine emphasizes the importance of community and support networks.

Her experiences, including a car accident while studying abroad, highlighted the value of having a support system. "If I hadn’t made good friends, no one would have come to the hospital when I was in immense pain."

Through kindness and checking in on friends, Justine believes students can foster meaningful relationships that will support them throughout their journeys. "The good eggs will reciprocate, and you may even find lifelong friends to celebrate milestones with."