This profile highlights the inspiring educational journey and personal growth of Eaint Chit Po Po, a student who hails from Myanmar (Burma), a country located in Southeast Asia. 

Eaint Chit “Ellie” Po Po came from Myanmar to continue her dreams with a degree in hospitality and tourism. 

After completing her undergraduate studies in archaeology at the University of Yangon, Ellie made the decision to continue her higher education journey at Highline. 

Not only has attending Highline shaped her into the person she is today, but the experiences and people she has encountered has impacted her in ways she will treasure forever. 

“I am grateful for the significant role Highline has played in shaping my personal and professional growth,” Po Po proudly said. “Highline, located in Des Moines, Wash., is renowned for its exceptional programs and commitment to student success.”

“When I decided to pursue a career in the hospitality and tourism industry, I chose Highline for its highly regarded program in hospitality and tourism management,” she said.

Recognizing the value of her choice, she also added and said how Highline had all the essentials with a full package deal in terms of getting her where she wanted to be in her career. 

“I knew that studying at Highline would provide me with the necessary knowledge, skills, and practical experiences to excel in the field,” she said. 

Moreover, she emphasized the opportunities she had to immerse herself in the campus culture, engage with a diverse student community, and make meaningful relationships along the way.

“Throughout my time at Highline I have had the opportunity to make lifelong friendships with individuals from various countries and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures,” she said. 

Highline’s commitment to diversity and inclusion on Po Po’s personal perspective made a huge impact on her and her studies. Po Po said unique cultures she found on campus through events set her on a road of self-awareness. 

“[Highline] celebrates cultural diversity through various events, clubs, and activities, providing students with opportunities to explore and embrace different traditions, languages, and ways of thinking,” she said. “This focus on diversity has broadened my horizons, challenged my assumptions, and prepared me to thrive in a multicultural society.”

Acknowledging the vital role of support services and resources at Highline, Po Po said she found comfort in Highline’s advising center to get through her each quarter. 

“The advising center has provided me with guidance and support throughout my academic journey, helping me navigate course selection, degree planning, and career goals,” she said.

Moreover, she also expressed gratitude for the library and said it has helped her engage in the various unique resources it provides to Highline students, one being research. 

“The library has been an invaluable resource for research and study, with knowledgeable librarians assisting me in locating relevant resources and accessing online databases,” she said. 

Undoubtedly, the dedicated faculty members at Highline have had a profound influence on her personal development. 

“In particular, Professor Justin Taillon, the department head of the Hospitality and Tourism Management program, has been an exceptional mentor,” she said. “His expertise, guidance, and commitment to student growth have shaped my academic and professional trajectory, enabling me to gain valuable industry insights, develop essential skills, and build a strong network of industry contacts.”

Through internships, volunteer activities, and practical components embedded in the curriculum, Po Po said she was able to achieve a range of hands-on experiences at Highline that directly impacted her personal and professional goals. 

“These experiences have enhanced my problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills,” she said. “They have given me a firsthand understanding of the dynamics within the hospitality industry.”

As she prepares to graduate from Highline College, Po Po expressed her readiness for the future. “I am equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to pursue my future career and educational endeavors,” she declared. She attributed her preparedness to the comprehensive understanding of the hospitality and tourism industry gained through the academic programs and courses at Highline.

Reflecting on her transformative and enriching experience at Highline, Po Po expressed her gratitude for the unique spirit and initiatives that impacted her journey. 

“From the supportive faculty-student relationships to the diverse campus culture Highline College has provided me with a strong foundation,” she said.

With the knowledge gained and the memories made, Highline student Eaint Chit Po Po is excited to embark on the next chapter of her journey.