Seeking an internship in international business, environment, sustainability, or agricultural development.
For a copy of Ya An’s resume, please email (program@shecan.global).
Ya An Heang is currently attending Denison University, majoring in Environmental Studies. Determined to reach her fullest potential, she continuously explores new academic opportunities to deepen her understanding of environmental and agricultural issues. Her passion for sustainability has grown significantly since her first semester at Denison, where she actively seeks to apply her knowledge to real-world challenges. She currently works as a Professor Research Assistant in the Department of Politics and Public Affairs and serves on the First-year Leadership Executive Committee of the Denison Asian Student Union.
Ya An is Cambodian-Vietnamese and grew up in a suburb of the Banteay Meanchey province. She has two younger sisters, and her parents run a small business selling garlic. Her parents’ sacrifices and unwavering support drive her ambition, inspiring her to work diligently toward her goals. As a result of her dedication, she graduated with an A-grade on her national exam, becoming the first in her family to pursue higher education.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Ya An is deeply engaged in extracurricular activities and community service. Despite the limited opportunities available during her high school years, she proactively created and sought out avenues for personal growth. She developed her leadership skills by leading the Red Cross Club and participating in Model United Nations, where she gained new perspectives, enhanced her communication abilities, and built confidence. She took the initiative to challenge herself by raising funds for charities and educating children in Klaeng Por and Kontout, rural villages in Banteay Meanchey province, about the negative effects of burning plastics. Ya An embraces challenges as opportunities for growth.
During the pandemic, Ya An founded the club “One Step Forward” to provide high school students with opportunities to improve their English public speaking, critical thinking skills, and confidence through discussions on social issues and online debates. Additionally, she trained and mentored ten high school students, equipping them with leadership skills to address environmental concerns and introduce bamboo straws as an eco-friendly alternative within their communities.
Her firsthand experiences with environmental issues in agriculture, particularly the excessive use of chemicals by farmers that harm both consumers’ health and the environment, fueled her desire to pursue a degree in Environmental Studies. She aspires to develop sustainable agricultural practices in Cambodia that ensure food safety and environmental preservation. Ya An is committed to being a change agent, believing that her efforts can make a lasting, positive impact on her community and beyond.
