Culture, Challenges, and Courage: A Cambodian’s American Experience 

Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation often overshadowed by its neighbors, Thailand and Vietnam. Despite this, the small country finds its own unique ways to shine, both in its history and culture. 

Once the center of the grand Khmer Empire, Cambodia boasts a rich heritage, symbolized by the iconic temple complex of Angkor Wat. However, its past also holds darker chapters, such as the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970s. 

Yet, through these trials, Cambodia has shown remarkable resilience, steadily rebuilding its economy and preserving its vibrant traditions.

 Today, Phnom Penh, its capital, is known as bustling metropolis where tradition blends seamlessly with modernity—and it is here that Ranpha Sarat’s story begins.

At 17, Ranpha left Phnom Penh to chase a dream that many Cambodian teens share: studying in America. But what sets her apart is the unlikely source that fueled her ambition—Cartoon Network. 

“Growing up, I watched a lot of Cartoon Network and thought, ‘I want to learn English,’” she explained. Inspired by animated characters like Gumball and Finn the Human, she taught herself English, forever expanding her world. 

Now 20, Ranpha is an international student at Chico State, studying accounting and navigating life far from the familiar streets of Phnom Penh.

Ranpha’s Adventure Time

The path to Chico was anything but straightforward.

 After graduating high school at 16 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ranpha faced the daunting task of choosing her future. 

Initially drawn to fashion design, she pivoted to accounting after earning a prestigious scholarship to one of Cambodia’s top business schools. “It was a practical choice,” she explained. “I realized I was good at math, and accounting felt like a stable path.”

 Her journey in the U.S. began in Oakland, continued in San Mateo, and finally brought her to Chico—a move dictated by financial necessity. “Chico State’s tuition was way cheaper than other schools,” Ranpha noted. Even so, the financial burden on her family remains heavy. “International students face so many challenges here—money is the biggest one.”

The Amazing World of Californication

Adapting to California came with a new set of challenges. From sprawling freeways to the steep cost of living, the differences were stark.

“In Cambodia, a can of soda is 50 cents. Here, it’s a dollar or more,” she remarked. 

Beyond financial hurdles, cultural adaptation was another obstacle. 

While she found the academic environment at Chico State more relaxed than in Cambodia, the warmth and support from the community made a significant difference, especially through counselors like Tasha. 

“Shoutout to Tasha—I love her,” Ranpha said.

The Making of a Powerpuff

Ranpha has faced prejudice in her time here. 

She recounted a disturbing incident in San Mateo, where a teacher made derogatory remarks about her Cambodian heritage. 

In Chico, such overt racism is less frequent, but financial hardships and the constant pressure to succeed persist. 

Despite these struggles, Ranpha remains resilient. “It’s through challenges that we grow stronger,” she noted. 

She finds solace in the small joys of Chico, like its abundance of cats. “I keep bumping into them everywhere—it makes me so happy,” she said. 

Beyond her feline encounters, Ranpha has found support in Chico’s community through clubs like the Digital Filmmakers Guild and projects like the Butte Film Festival.

Ranpha’s Universe and What We Can Learn

To those considering a similar path, Ranpha offers a sobering yet empowering message: “Think carefully about your choice. You’ll face hardships, and you’ll be independent. No one else will be to blame—it’ll be your journey.” 

She also calls for systemic change, urging Chico State and the U.S. to better support international students. “Let us work off-campus, and please lower tuition. We’re human too, and we’re just trying to build a better future like everyone else.”

Ranpha’s Laboratory of Cultural Reflection

Reflecting on both American and Cambodian cultures, Ranpha wishes she could bring the vibrant celebration of Khmer New Year to Chico. “It’s a time when everyone comes together—spraying water, playing traditional games, and dancing to loud music,” she said with a smile. 

She also hopes for greater recognition of Cambodia’s unique culture, urging people to learn about its traditions and cuisine. “It’s not just another Asian culture—Cambodia has its own identity.”

Ranpha’s journey from Phnom Penh to Chico showcases the resilience and adaptability it takes to chase a dream. 

Her story highlights the unique challenges faced by international students, yet despite these hardships, she continues to thrive. 

As we learn from her story, a call to action emerges—for better systems, stronger support, and deeper understanding.

And while Ranpha’s story takes place at Chico State, it’s worth noting that Butte College also hosts a diverse community of international students who face many of the same challenges. Their journeys, though less visible, deserve just as much attention and support, reminding us of the shared resilience across our campuses.