Aii Forum

“… offers educators the privileges to showcase their skills and potential in sharing sessions, workshops, and webinars”

When I decided to join the teaching profession after my graduation, Aii Language Center became my first employment. As my first venture in the field of ESL teaching, it offers the best working environment. I find myself enhancing a lot in terms of skillset, problem-solving, and teamwork. Not only does the school offer every teacher the opportunity to bring significant impact to lives of the students, but it offers educators the privileges to showcase their skills and potential in sharing sessions, workshops, and webinars. They serve as avenues to improve confidence and competence. Working as an ESL teacher is certainly not simple, but I continuously come across and learn new ideas and ways to keep myself updated as a part of this esteemed education sector.

 -Marisa Seynavy, CC Campus

“Aii is where I’ve grown the most…Autonomy is encouraged, that’s why educators were able to express themselves more and grow fast as an educator.”

I’ve had a wonderful experience working in Aii. I used to work in a lot of schools but this is where I’ve grown the most. Teaching in Aii has sharpened my skills in teaching. Every teacher is encouraged to use techniques they see fit in their lessons. Autonomy is encouraged that’s why educators were able to express themselves more and grow fast as an educator.

-Jerico Colon, CA Campus

“Aii is not just school, but home too…
Even as a part-timer, I’ve learned much more from my colleagues…”

I have been working in Aii language center for more than three (3) terms already. What I’ve gained from this institution is the sense of care and camaraderie. Even though I am a part-time ESL teacher, I’ve learned much more from my colleagues, from the courses as well as the teaching environment. Moreover, I’ve acquired a lot from Mr. Mengly J. Quach regarding the tips of healing and preventing COVID-19 every time he shares in the school telegram group.

Working in the public sector and teaching as a part-timer makes me a very busy man. However, I pride myself with coping from a hectic workload. There are two (2) effective keys to my survival.

First of all, proper time management is considered to be necessary. Normally, the tasks provided from both workplaces especially Aii language center have clear guidelines and deadline. As a result I am able to determine what should be prioritized to finish first, or what should be done next. Second, spending some leisure time also plays a vital role in alleviating work stress.

When I enter my class and see my students’ faces or hear their voices in virtual class, I start to feel energetic starting the session. We have sharing, singing activities, and chitchatting during the class.  I am grateful for everything Aii has provided me. I look forward to acquiring more indispensable knowledge and experiences from Aii Language Center.

-Seryboth Eksaran Phaosery, PT Campus

“Aii Language Center is one of the top echelon schools in Cambodia.”

My first day at Aii Language Center can be described as a fish out of water experience. There are countless floors and classrooms in the massive school building. I could not find the Staff Office to save my life! This was the first time that I had taken the easy way out by asking for directions. As a man, we do not like to ask for directions. We would rather be lost for 10 hours, than ask for directions. It was one of the best decisions I made that day.

I arrived in my classroom 10 minutes early and had plenty of time to write the objective aim on the white board. While I was writing the class aim, I could feel a dozen eyes looking from behind. As I turned around, my feeling was right. Students were watching my every move. At first I thought the students were interested in starting a conversation with a foreign teacher. Then, I realized the students were looking at my bald head. It’s an anomaly in Cambodian’s society. I laughed it off and began the lesson. After the first session period I made my way to the next class. As I went through the normal routine writing the day’s objective aim, I noticed once again eyes were watching from behind. I said to myself “Here we go again, they are looking at my bald head.”

The teaching profession has given me colorful experiences. As a new ESL Teacher at Aii Language Center, I was assigned a head teacher by the name of Mr. Sophen. Teachers would tell me how lucky I am to be under his supervision. He would speak to you with the most calm tone of voice and offer a solution to rectify the mistake. I could have sworn he could have been a Buddhist monk in his past life! The teachers in Aii are respected and supported. We are provided opportunities for growth and development.

– Noeun Phan, ESL Teacher

“I am very grateful that my students, despite the pandemic situation, are trained and fully equipped with readiness to study online.”

“Never give up” These three words have been one of my motivations in life. At first, I thought these words are meaningless. When I applied as an ESL teacher in Aii in 2018, I was devastated when I wasn’t able to get the spot. I really wanted to be part of this school and share my expertise; however, it wasn’t given to me at that time. But I told myself NOT to GIVE UP and try again. Eventually, that paid off.

Trying and never giving up helped me to be where I am right now. I can still remember my first day when I met the teachers and Head teachers in Aii Toul Kork. They were very welcoming and accommodating to help me with simple things and even with complicated ones. On my first day in class, I was a bit nervous going inside the classroom and kept on thinking about how to approach my students. When I entered the classroom, they looked at me with smiles on their faces and they started talking about things; what they did the day before; what were their breakfasts and so on. Those small things made my heart so happy; seeing the smile on their faces, and my nerves dissipated.

Little did I know, three years have gone and I am still part of this extraordinary experience, teaching in Aii Toul Kork. My students are active and always enjoy healthy competitions with their classmates. I always love seeing them compete for the student of the week in our quizzes. Decorating our classroom door every Christmas and helping me with face painting during Halloween events. Seeing the joy on their faces made me realize that my work as a teacher in Aii is very fulfilling. I couldn’t ask for more.

I am very grateful that my students, despite the pandemic situation, are trained and fully equipped with readiness to study online. They adopted the change so well as if we are having classes inside a real classroom. They are enjoying while learning different activities online and educational games. They did NOT GIVE UP in the midst of this situation. I am forever grateful for the experience I have here in Aii, I have grown, learned a lot and am still ready to learn more.

–Mike Jay Natano, ESL Teacher

“Truly, Aii isn’t just an avenue of learning but a home of comfort…”

Every one of us longs to be in a place where we feel that we fit in like a missing piece of the puzzle. In life’s roller-coaster journey, we face many challenges and situations that would keep us within our own box of safety; although we know that we have more to give and share in this life.

Being an educator myself, I have faced obstacles that have led me to keep my passion in hidden. Too naïve of the world and doubtful of taking chances. But, a wake-up call has come and led me to this turning point of my new reality. And this is now my home of comfort.

As I take a step inside the four walls of Aii, a rage of absolute excitement and delight welcomed me on its doorstep. That has imprinted in me an impression of enthusiasm and joy. Alas! I feel at home.

Undeniably true, I have found the place that I have been searching for a long time, and it is here in Aii. From humble and pleasant staff, incredibly passionate teachers, and up to the approachable and supportive management team, all have helped me to become the teacher that I am today.
I am proud to say that I got honed to be a better version of myself and as a teacher because of the comfort, encouragement, and teachings I have gained working here in Aii. Indeed, everyone is valued and respected for the person that they are, regardless of the differences. We have learned to work like a family, and everyone plays a vital role in the school community.

Thank you, Aii Language Center! For the best three years of my life. I truly am grateful for the opportunities that I have experienced and to more of it along the way. Truly, Aii isn’t just an avenue of learning but a home of comfort from now until forever.

-Jamaica Facturan, ESL Teacher

“I developed a strong interpersonal skill, as I constantly collaborate with other teachers, work with students and talk to parents.”

I’ve worked at Aii Language Center Chroy Chongva Campus since October 21, 2019. It’s a great honor to be a part of Aii for. I’ve got many experiences from positive people and role models around me. As a teacher aide, I realized that in order to work with a team, we need to be able to cooperate and understand others. Especially with our main teacher, we need to work like a family wherein we identify issues with students and come up with appropriate solutions together. It is crucial in caring for our students while they are staying inside the school and assist them in their learning. I enjoy working with different people. For me, communicating with the parents of the students is really important so we can tell them about students’ performance at school. When the students have issues with their learning, we may request parents to cooperate with us and fix it together. 

I developed a strong interpersonal skill, as I constantly collaborate with other teachers, work with students and talk to parents. I’m so grateful to the management team and all my co-workers in contributing to my development; to be more confident and professional in both my career and personal life.

– Ratana Angkea Watey Bo, Aii Teacher Assistant

“They consider me not just an employee but a part of their family.”

Working at Aii is a worthwhile experience. I have been learning a lot through workshops and also from my head teacher and co-teachers. I felt the real compassion from this school. They consider me not just an employee but a part of their family. I have been blessed to be part of Aii.

– Charlene Balbin, ESL Teacher

“Aii has taught me to be professional, responsible and supportive…”

I’ve been teaching at Aii for almost 6 years. The first day I started teaching at Aii, I felt proud to be one of Aii family. All the teachers and staff are professional and friendly. We work and help each to achieve our goals. Aii has taught me to be professional, responsible, and supportive which are very beneficial for my teaching career and as a teacher. I am grateful to Aii for providing me the opportunity to work and create a supportive working environment for all teachers and staffs.

– Sethvisal Pidorith, ESL Teacher

“They are always happy to share valuable lessons, which to me, is an important mechanism that motivates me to be the best version of myself.”

I have been working at Aii Language Center since 2019. At first, I was just a part-time TSL teacher, but then I become a full-time teacher, which gave me more time and more opportunity to learn about other jobs that I have never done before. I always receive good advice from my seniors to reflect on myself and fulfill what I lack. They are always happy to share valuable lessons, which to me, is an important mechanism that motivates me to be the best version of myself. In my opinion, a good job will make us happy to come to work, but having a good manager makes us twice as happy. So if we have a mentor, who guides us, we can learn from our mistakes and correct them to become better.

-Vipha Phuon, TSL Teacher

“Thank you to Aii for giving me an opportunity to be who I am today.”

When I was in my Sophomore year at my University, I started my journey and took a challenge with my working life. I’ve been working at Aii since 2019 and it is my pride to be a CSL teacher. Aii is the institution where I wanted to work and build my career.  My head department, whom I really admire, is a helpful, respectful, knowledgeable, and energetic person. My CSL team is a group of open-minded and helpful people who always give me a hand whenever I need it. I work in a peaceful and supportive environment where we share our experiences together. We smile, respect, and love each other like a family. Choosing Aii is one of the best decisions in my life. Thank you to Aii for giving me an opportunity to be who I am today.

–Chanpisey Bun, CSL Teacher

“Aii has taught me the real meaning of a true leader; someone who serves with humility and not someone that people serve.”

Why I Chose to Stay

August 21, 2018, January 5, 2020 and April 1, 2020 were the most memorable dates for me here in Cambodia. August 21, 2018 was my first day at Aii Language Center, Chak Angre Campus. Unlike the place where I grew up in,  I fell in love with the campus immediately because everyone was helpful, approachable and friendly. But, like in a relationship, not all days are happy and fun. January 5, 2020 was the day that I decided to leave but someone from the top management team came and saved me from losing myself. Never in my wildest dream that I would meet someone who’s in a management team to reach out to me. That was one of the reasons why I chose to stay and to accept her challenge for me to be a head teacher on April 1, 2020. I wanted to be like her.

One of the reasons why I also chose to stay at Aii Language Center is because they never limit someone’s growth. They are open to giving you a chance whether you are a fresh graduate, young professionals or old professionals. They look behind the cover of the book. They look for your own capability and your commitment. There is one thing Aii Language Center has taught me that I will carry on for a lifetime; understanding the real meaning of a true leader, “Someone who serves his people with humility and not someone that people serve.”

-Karen Edegan Pagulayan, MTT Head Teacher

“Aii has a structured system that supports teachers and helps them perform their task smoothly.”

Ten years ago, I started working with Aii Language Center as an ESL Teacher. At present, I am the Head of the Academic Secretary. Before coming to Aii, I taught English at other institutions. Aii is very different from other language schools. It has a structured system that supports teachers and helps them perform their task smoothly. On my first day, I did not feel alone as I got to meet the Campus Director, Deputy Campus Director and the Head Teachers who gave me guidance and regularly checked in with me if I am doing fine with my teaching. For me, teaching is one of the noblest professions. As a teacher, you are able to help other people, especially the young generation.

After teaching for more than ten years, I decided to apply as the Head of Secretary. I also love this job because I can help university students who are also studying at Aii and need jobs by introducing them to the Aii Internship Program. Moreover, I also have the opportunity to help new employees, mostly fresh graduates, who are struggling at their first job by providing them counseling, guidance and advice.

-Channirath Heng, AiiMTT Head of Secretary

“… it is a stepping stone to build up my confidence and communication skills. “

I started working with Aii Language Center in March 2020 as a Marketing intern. On my first day, I got a warm welcome from everyone and got an introduction of my role from my supervisor. Due to the coronavirus and the lack of staff, I switched to another department and work with ICES Cambodia Office, which offers a cultural exchange program service.  Now I am working with an expat who is a senior international relations officer.  Under her supervision, I learned a lot about problem-solving skills.

I have such an amazing time working with her because she is very open-minded and we can share and express our ideas freely. Moreover, my English has also improved through having communication with her every day. Part of my job is dealing with students’ parents which is quite challenging for me.  However, it is a stepping stone to build up my confidence and communication skills.

I would like to thank Aii Language Center that gave me this great opportunity to be trained and improve myself.

– Kimlang Em, Intern

“I soon discovered that beyond the four walls of Aii is a heart that is always ready to take someone in.”

Day 1 and still and counting…

Two weeks after arriving in Cambodia, I found myself employed as an ESL Teacher at Aii Language Center. Flustered and unfamiliar with Khmer streets, I remembered the flurry of my first day when I got lost on my way to work. When I finally arrived at the campus, the shrill of the first bell rang and the Campus Director was waiting in the office. I tried mustering a calm facade while beads of perspiration betrayed my anxiety of coming in late on the first day. To my relief, the campus director was gracious and understanding when I tried to explain the series of unfortunate events on that day.

My first day rolled into months and the few faces of my students I met grew to a hundred and more. I found myself looking back after almost two years in Aii. A lot of things have happened. From my first potluck day to the first Christmas school party, I realized that Aii has grown on me. I began to look forward to checking the attendance of my students whose names have twisted my tongue to knots. I started talking about my students incessantly. How excited they were making a parrot out of recycled plastic. How thrilled they were when they first cooked pasta at home with the recipe I gave them. How their parents raved about the cards they made in school for Valentine’s day. These little triumphs I have as a teacher, were all but a small part in the most fulfilling days I have at Aii.

As an expat who tries to find a home away from home, Aii has become one. To my delight many of my fellow Filipino teachers have made Aii their home too for many long years. I soon discovered that beyond the four walls of Aii is a heart that is always ready to take someone in. Well, everyone.

– Hannah, Aii Teacher

“Since the first day I started working here at Aii Language Center, I know this is the right place for me because Aii is a place where I am given an opportunity to explore myself and work with a dynamic team from diverse backgrounds.”

After graduating from the University, I got a mixed feeling of excitement and frustration. I am very excited as I have just passed another step of my life but suddenly I felt nervous too when I started thinking about my future, job and financial stability.

As a fresh graduate, I felt a bit nervous to apply to a big company because I might be considered inexperienced. However, my ambition and passion for education keep reminding me to follow what I love, so I decided to apply at Aii Language Center. To my surprise, I was selected to work at a place where I always admire and dream to contribute my skill, which is Aii Language Center.

Since the first day I started working here at Aii Language Center, I know this is the right place for me because Aii is a place where I am given an opportunity to explore myself and work with a dynamic team from diverse backgrounds. Everyone supports one another like a close-knit family. The most special thing about working here is the value in my work because I am one of the driving forces that shape thousands of Cambodian students.

There was a time that I was going to give up applying for the position that I am working today. But I kept telling myself every day that one day there will be a place where they recognize my qualification. So here I am today working at Aii Language Center.

I got so many NO as a response, but I kept believing in myself that one day I will get a YES, and I was right!

– Sreymao Saing, Aii Content Writer

“Aii is one of the most influential institutes in Cambodia and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Working at Aii since 2016 was a great experience for me. Aii is like a home to me. From 2010 to 2012, I was a part-time student in the GEP program. I met great teachers and gained a lot of knowledge from them. In 2016, I came back to Aii as a Teacher Assistant. During that time, I still studied at a university without much experience about working or teaching students. However, I was given an opportunity to become one of the teachers at Aii. In 2018, I applied for the main teacher position as I have graduated. Aii is one of the most influential institutes in Cambodia and I’m proud to be part of it.

– Sreyna Eang, ESL Teacher

“I feel that I am working with professionals that I can learn from and that they push me to take on new and challenging opportunities.”

I’ve worked in a number of schools over the years, doing a variety of things, and finally, I’ve found that working at Aii is the place for me. I feel that I am working with professionals that I can learn from and that they push me to take on new and challenging opportunities. It is the most meaningful workplace I have ever worked in. People are intelligent, fun and responsible. Everyone is supportive and willing to provide their help and experience to accomplish my goals. Every team member has a smile on their face. This is a great place to work. I am treated with respect, given daily encouragement, and support since the first day until now.

-Vicheka Ly, ESL Teacher