During my first semester at RIS, I joined the EducatoryX Club. The club’s mission to promote accessible education aligns with my belief that learning should be available to everyone, regardless of their background. When I had the opportunity to participate in a service trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, I witnessed firsthand the powerful impact that access to education—or the lack of it—can have on children’s lives.

During our visit to Chres Village School and orphanage, I worked with underprivileged children and taught them English through art, with the intention of sparking their creative interests. Despite limited resources, the students’ eagerness to learn was deeply inspiring. Through this experience, I discovered a newfound sense of patience and adaptability. Teaching pushed me outside of my comfort zone and encouraged me to embrace different perspectives. I noticed how every child had a unique way of learning, and the experience helped me appreciate the value of empathy and understanding.

Designing creative lessons with my peers required a lot of planning, teamwork, and effective communication. We organized hands-on activities using clay and comic sketches to make learning more engaging. The language barrier made things a little more challenging, but by focusing on visuals and shared creative expression, we found meaningful ways to connect with the children.

We also visited local orphanages, where I spent time with children who had lost their families or were placed in care due to financial hardship. Despite their circumstances, they met every moment with joy. Even small gestures—like playing games or having conversations—became profoundly meaningful.

One of the most memorable parts of the trip was taking the children from the orphanage to a waterpark. Their happiness was contagious. This moment reminded me that education is not only about knowledge, but also about fostering joy, curiosity, and growth. Their tight hugs and reluctance to say goodbye filled me with overwhelming emotion and gratitude, making me realize just how worthwhile every moment of the trip had been.

Through this experience, I developed a deeper desire to contribute meaningfully to education and gained a clearer understanding of how small actions can leave a lasting impact on others.