Madana Rithy (Academic Year 2024-2025) – Memorable, adventurous, radiant.
Favorite Quote: ” Never live up to anyone’s expectations except your own. “
An interesting fact about Madana is that although she always complains about how much work she has to do—whether it’s a school project or community work—whenever she has time off, she tends to get bored and finds something else to do. No matter how busy she is, she always tries her best to spend time with friends and family in any way she can.
Among all the subjects, she finds Khmer History the most exciting and fascinating, as it allows her to learn more about her culture, history, legendary kings, significant events, and the creation of famous temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, and Prasat Preah Khan. As a high school student, she found the Research Capstone project the most challenging, as it determined her final grade for graduation. This project taught her time management, research skills, and valuable lessons that will help in the future.
She believes English has prepared her most for life after high school by strengthening her communication skills in writing and speaking. It also fosters critical thinking through literary analysis, helping her articulate her ideas and evaluate arguments. She also values Khmer language for teaching her the importance of culture, identity, and communication. Learning Khmer deepened her connection to her heritage and gave her a greater appreciation for Cambodia’s rich history.
During her time at AUPPHS-FA, Madana actively participated in multiple extracurricular activities such as the Music Club, Basketball Team, Community Service Club, and supported the Homework Club by helping younger students after school. On weekends and holidays, she volunteered with both national and international organizations—running marathons, organizing donations, and raising money for charity.
Her most cherished memories at AUPPHS-FA are filled with emotion—laughter, excitement, stress, and even tears shared with friends. Whether it was hanging out during breaks, playing sports, joining events, or even failing tests, she is grateful for every moment spent with friends and teachers. These small memories are what made her high school experience truly unforgettable.
After graduation, Madana plans to attend a good university, either in Cambodia or abroad. While studying, she also aims to take on internships and continue her volunteer work with both local and international communities.
Her advice to juniors at AUPPHS-FA: “Life is always full of surprises and challenges, and it’s normal for us to make mistakes, what’s important is how you get back up every time you fall and learn from your mistakes. And never give up on your dream, sooner or later you’ll reach it but for now do your best and make yourself proud because in about 10 years from now, you’ll be looking back and realize just how amazing you were.”