Hay Tha is an alumni from BEAM’s very first GED cohort. In 2017 he graduated from Chiang Mai University with a major  in Social Science and then began working for Burma Children Medical Fund. Now, due to his hard work and dedication, Hay Tha earned his place at  Sant’Anna University’s Master’s program in Pisa, Italy. Hay Tha is BEAM’s first alumni student to continue on for a Master’s degree and was thoughtful enough to share this message with us:

I am now studying at ScuolaSuperioreSant’Anna University, earning a Master’s in Human Rights and Conflict ManagementXVII edition (MHRCM). I started in January 2019 and am expected to graduate in mid-2020. This Master’s program is designed to provide students from different cultures and backgrounds with a deep understanding of the linkages between human rights and conflict management theory and practice. The curriculum, strongly field-oriented, prepares participants for working with NGOs, governments, aid agencies, the UN system and regional organizations. It also operates in the context of complex emergencies and joint operations.The methodology is characterized by a combination of theory and practice. There is ample use of advanced role-playing sessions, simulation exercises, and case study material.The program is comprised of 28 students; 20 are from European countries and 8 are from non-European countries. My colleagues come from Albania, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, France, Italy, Lithuania, Myanmar (myself), Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan.

Coming from different academic backgrounds and geographically different countries, the class creates one of the most excitingenvironments for me.The subjects range from Conflict Studies, International Law, International Humanitarian Law, International Human Right LawandDeveloping Personal Skillsto mention a few. In addition, professors come from different universities in Italy and abroad. We also to have opportunities to talk and interact withpersonnelfrom various INGOs (UN, Amnesty International) and NGOs. Apart from the classes themselves, the University’s location also offers a lot of excitement. It is located in the heart of Pisa, Italy, a few minutes’ walk to one of European’s most famous tourist attractions known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

I was not fully convinced that “confidence” is key to every attempt in learning until I started my life as a Master’s student at Sant’Anna University. Coming from the developing world with a less advanced academic background compared to some of my peers, I started my first weeks of the program without full confidence. However, as I built up the level of my confidence, I realized that everything was within my reach and under my control. I had always dreamed of studying in Europe even while pursuing my Bachelor’s degree. When I worked in Mae Sot,Iusually made use of my weekends by applying toconferences, forums, and Master-level courses. As a result, I got the chance to attend youth forums in South Korea and Egypt, and now finally am able to do my Master’s at one of Italy’s top five universities. This big move wouldn’t have happenedif I hadn’t builtup the small level of confidence needed to press “ENTER” on my computer keyboard first. I firmly believe that no matter our socio-economic levels, ethnic backgrounds, or sexual orientation, we can go for what we dream of with full confidence. It’s just a matter of when.

Lastly, I am VERY PROUD to represent the Golden Land of Myanmar and my culture at my university.