Congratulations to all 12th grade graduates 2025!

Congratulations to all 12th grade graduates! You did a great job. 

Completing 12th grade is a great achievement, a testament to your hard work, dedication, and resilience. For those who faced a setback, remember that your journey is not defined by one moment, but by your courage to try again. However, please know this isn't just an ending; it's a breathtaking new beginning. You are about to step onto a university campus, a place filled with dreams and possibilities. This journey will be one of the most transformative of your life. You will truly discover who you are, what you love, and what you are capable of. It’s an adventure that requires courage, curiosity, and a few simple but powerful tools.

As an educator, I want to share a few things from my personal experience with you. Think of this not as a checklist, but as a personal guide to help you build a strong foundation for the amazing years ahead.

1. Be the Master of Your Time

University life offers a beautiful, new kind of freedom. There’s no one to wake you up for class, and no one to chase you for homework. This freedom is a precious gift, and it's up to you to be a wise guardian of your time. Your life is your own masterpiece to create.

• Make Your Own Calendar: At the start of each semester, write down every deadline, exam date, assignments, and important events. This simple habit will save you from stress and allow you to breathe.

• Respect Your Time: Your journey isn't just about studying. Schedule time for friends, for hobbies, and for rest. A well-rounded life is a joyful life, and a joyful mind is a productive one.

2. Love Learning & Be a Scholar

This is your chance to dive deep into subjects you're truly passionate about. See every lecture and every reading not as a chore, but as an exciting invitation to a new world of ideas.

• Go Beyond the Notes: Don't just sit and listen; engage. Ask questions, challenge your own thoughts, and participate in discussions. Learning is a conversation, not a lecture.

• Embrace Curiosity: The library isn't just a building; it's a treasure chest. The internet is a tool, but university databases are the gold. Learn to use them to become a true scholar and find credible information.

• Find Your Voice: Your ideas are unique and valuable. Practice expressing them clearly and persuasively through your writing. Every paper is a chance to refine your thoughts. Don't ever hesitate to discuss your ideas with lecturers and friends; they are there to help your words shine.

3. Build Your Community

Remember you are not on this journey alone. The beautiful community you will find at university is one of its greatest gifts. Your success is not a solo mission.

• Connect with Your Guides: Your professors are not just teachers—they are mentors, scholars, and experts who are passionate about their work. Go to their office hours to ask questions, share your ideas, and build a relationship. They can be invaluable guides on your path.

• Lean on Your Peers: Form study groups or clubs with classmates. You will help each other understand difficult topics and, more importantly, you will build friendships that will last a lifetime.

• Ask for Help: The university is full of people who want to see you succeed. From academic advisors to counselors, there is a whole network of support waiting for you. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of great wisdom and strength.

Go forth with confidence and an open heart. Be proactive, be kind to yourself, and remember why you started this journey. The world is waiting for your unique light. I believe in you.

Phnom Penh, 19 September 2025

By: Mut Somoeun