Rophat is 21 years old. He grew up in a Cham Muslim community in Tbaung Khmom District, Kampong Cham Province. He has recently started his studies at the Provincial Teacher Training College (PTTC) with scholarship assistance from the ESCUP program. Rophat receives $18 per month for the duration of the 2 years needed to complete his training course, which will qualify him to take up a teaching post in his home commune. When interviewed by CIYA, Rophat said that he never believed that he could be a teacher, even though it was one of his dreams. After learning about ESCUP's scholarship program at the mosque and from the commune office in October 2005, Rophat and his friends decided to apply. He was relieved to hear that applicants were offered tutoring to prepare for the PTTC entry exams as he worried that he would not be able to pass. He said he was very excited and proud that he passed the exam. He is now officially enrolled at the PTTC and will complete his studies in July 2007. At the end of the interview, Rophat gave a big smile when he expressed his appreciation and gratitude to ESCUP's support to him and his community because this contributes to giving them a more positive outlook on the future.