May Meas is 21 years old and a fourth year student at Angkor University. He was born and raised in Thmai Village and currently lives in Siem Reap. In his free time, he enjoys reading books, surfing the internet, working on assignments, and staying busy at work. Both of May’s parents are rice farmers in Thmai Village and he grew up as an only child. May started studying in Thami Village at eight years old. Due to his family’s poverty, it was extremely difficult for May to continue his education throughout most of his life.

May currently works on the Journey Within Our Community’s Loan Project. If you asked him why, his answer would be a short, simple, “because I enjoy it.” Regarding Siem Reap, May likes both the town and countryside. He wants to help the community through explaining the importance of learning – especially how to do business. The biggest problems facing the country, to May, include domestic violence, bad water, poor education, and extreme poverty. Nevertheless, May seeks to change the education system.

May has been a scholarship student for one year. A fourth year student at Angkor University and management major, May sought to further his education since companies tend to hire those individuals who have a college degree. He became a scholarship student to help his family since they could not afford the tuition expenses.

In the future, May wants to have a good job and teach others about correcting their way of life. He would also like to see more loans go out to others.

“When I saw JWOC help students and other villages, I was very happy because it offered education for the future...they’ll be able to help themselves and the community.”