STUDENT PROFILE & ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT REPORT

Student Reflection and Learning Journey

Student Information

Introduction

This Student Profile and Academic Development Report presents the educational background, learning experiences, academic progress, personal development, and future aspirations of Sofiul Kodor, a Semester One student pursuing an Associate Degree in Political Science at RAR Institute.

Through his academic journey, Sofiul has been developing his understanding of political systems, democracy, governance, human rights, political participation, and international relations. His reflections also highlight the challenges he has encountered, the guidance he has received from instructors, and the improvements he has experienced in communication, confidence, critical thinking, and classroom participation. The purpose of this profile is to document his learning journey and demonstrate how access to higher education can support individual development, strengthen political awareness, and create opportunities for meaningful community engagement.

Student Reflection and Academic Development

1. What is your full name, and how would you introduce yourself as a student at RAR Institute?

Answer:

My name is Sofiul Kodor, and I am currently pursuing an Associate Degree in Political Science at RAR Institute. I am a Semester One student who is committed to continuing my education and developing a deeper understanding of political and social issues.

I am particularly interested in human rights, democracy, governance, political participation, and issues affecting the Rohingya community. Through my studies, I hope to strengthen my political knowledge, critical-thinking abilities, communication skills, and confidence. My long-term ambition is to use my education to contribute positively to my community and support the development of Rohingya youth.

2. What is your Student ID, and which academic programme are you currently pursuing at RAR Institute?

Answer:

My Student ID is RAR-AD-202625, and I am currently enrolled in the Associate Degree in Political Science at RAR Institute. I joined the Institute in 2026 and am currently studying in Semester One.

This programme provides me with an opportunity to develop foundational knowledge of political systems, government institutions, democracy, governance, human rights, and international relations. I hope to build on this foundation throughout my studies and use the knowledge I gain to understand political and social issues more effectively.

3. What is your educational background before joining RAR Institute?

Answer:

Before joining RAR Institute, I completed my matriculation in 2023 at Mayyu New Light High School in Thaing Khali Camp 13. My subjects included Myanmar, English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. In addition to my formal education, I completed a six-month Employability Skills and Professional Excellence course and a one-month human rights training programme through Rohingya Growing Together. I also completed a one-month journalism course offered by Burmese Community Partners (BCP) and received first aid training through other organisations. These educational and training experiences helped me develop a broader understanding of social issues, communication, professional conduct, and community engagement. They also encouraged me to continue pursuing education and developing my knowledge and abilities.

4. When did you join RAR Institute, and what motivated you to study Political Science?

Answer:

I joined RAR Institute in 2026 because I wanted to continue my education and gain a deeper understanding of political and social issues. I was particularly interested in Political Science because it helps explain how governments operate, how political decisions are made, how laws are developed, and how people participate in public affairs. My interest is also connected to my desire to understand human rights and the circumstances affecting the Rohingya community. I believe that studying Political Science can help me become more informed about governance, political institutions, citizenship, equality, and the importance of protecting fundamental rights. Through this programme, I hope to develop the knowledge and confidence necessary to contribute constructively to my community.

5. What were your knowledge, confidence, and skills like before joining RAR Institute?

Answer:

Before joining RAR Institute, I had gained foundational knowledge and practical experience through my previous education, training, and community activities. I had developed communication, teamwork, public-speaking, leadership, and problem-solving skills. However, I wanted to improve my academic confidence, deepen my understanding of political issues, and become more comfortable expressing my ideas in formal educational settings. I sometimes felt hesitant when communicating with others or speaking in front of a group. I recognised that continuing my education would help me address these challenges, strengthen my abilities, and prepare me for future academic and professional opportunities.

6. What challenges did you face when you first started studying at RAR Institute?

Answer:

When I first started studying at RAR Institute, I experienced some challenges in understanding lectures, following classroom discussions, completing assignments, and delivering presentations. I also lacked confidence in expressing my ideas in certain academic situations. Adjusting to academic expectations and participating actively in online classes required time and effort. However, I gradually became more comfortable through regular class attendance, interaction with instructors, and communication with classmates. These experiences taught me the importance of patience, consistent effort, and a willingness to learn. I now understand that challenges are a natural part of education and can become opportunities for personal improvement.

7. How have your academic confidence and classroom participation developed since joining RAR Institute?

Answer:

Since joining RAR Institute, I have gradually become more confident in participating in classes, communicating with instructors, and expressing my opinions. I am increasingly comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and engaging in discussions about political and social issues. My experience has also helped me become more aware of the importance of listening carefully, respecting different perspectives, and communicating my thoughts clearly. Although I still have areas to improve, I feel more confident than I did before joining the Institute. This progress has encouraged me to participate more actively in my education and continue developing my academic abilities.

8. What important knowledge and skills have you gained through your Political Science studies?

Answer:

Through my Political Science studies, I am developing an understanding of political systems, government institutions, democracy, governance, human rights, political participation, and international relations. I am learning how the legislature, executive, and judiciary perform different functions within a political system. I am also developing an understanding of presidential and parliamentary systems, electoral processes, public administration, and the relationship between governments and citizens. In addition to subject knowledge, my studies are helping me improve critical thinking, academic reading, communication, written expression, and independent learning. These skills are important for understanding political issues and participating more thoughtfully in discussions about society and governance.

9. How have your understanding of political institutions, governance, and political systems improved?

Answer:

My studies have helped me develop a clearer understanding of how political institutions operate and how responsibilities are distributed within government systems. I am learning about the different roles of the legislature, executive, and judiciary, as well as the differences between presidential and parliamentary systems. I am also beginning to understand how constitutions, laws, public policies, and administrative institutions influence the relationship between governments and citizens. This knowledge has encouraged me to examine political systems more carefully rather than viewing political issues only from a personal perspective. I hope to deepen my understanding of these subjects as I progress through the programme.

10. How has studying democracy, human rights, and political participation influenced your understanding of society?

Answer:

Studying democracy, human rights, and political participation has encouraged me to think more deeply about equality, representation, fundamental freedoms, and the role of individuals in public affairs. I am learning that political participation can take different forms and that understanding political institutions is important for examining how decisions affect communities. These subjects have also encouraged me to consider the relationship between rights, responsibilities, laws, and governance. As a Rohingya student, I am particularly interested in understanding the political and social circumstances affecting my community. My studies have motivated me to learn more about human rights and the importance of informed, constructive participation in society.

11. How has your understanding of international relations, geopolitics, and global issues developed?

Answer:

My studies have introduced me to the importance of examining political issues beyond national boundaries. I am developing an understanding of international relations, the interactions between states, the roles of international organisations, and the influence of political and geographical factors on international affairs. I am also interested in how international developments can affect communities experiencing conflict, displacement, and restrictions on their rights and opportunities. These subjects have encouraged me to consider how domestic political decisions and international relationships can influence people’s lives. I hope to expand my knowledge of international affairs and develop a more comprehensive understanding of global political issues throughout my studies.

12. What have you learned from assignments, presentations, examinations, and classroom discussions?

Answer:

Through assignments, classroom discussions, academic reading, and other learning activities, I have learned to organise my ideas more clearly and connect political concepts with practical examples. For instance, I have explored issues relating to lawmaking and the actions authorities may take to protect the state. These activities have encouraged me to consider the responsibilities of government institutions and the relationship between laws, public authority, and society.

Group discussions have also helped me recognise the importance of listening to different viewpoints and explaining my own ideas respectfully. I believe these experiences will help me become a more confident and thoughtful student of Political Science.

13. How have your academic reading, writing, and critical-thinking abilities developed?

Answer:

My academic reading, writing, and critical-thinking abilities are developing through lectures, assignments, discussions, and independent learning. I am learning to organise information, explain political concepts, and support my ideas with relevant examples. I am also becoming more aware of the importance of considering different perspectives before forming conclusions about political and social issues. These skills are particularly useful in Political Science because political questions often involve different interpretations, competing interests, and complex social circumstances. I understand that developing these abilities takes time and practice, and I intend to continue improving them throughout my academic journey.

14. How has your ability to understand political and social issues from different perspectives improved?

Answer:

Studying Political Science has encouraged me to examine political and social issues from more than one perspective. I am learning that understanding an issue requires considering its historical background, institutional context, relevant evidence, and effects on different groups of people.

I am also learning to distinguish personal opinions from arguments supported by evidence and to recognise that people may interpret the same political situation differently. This approach has encouraged me to think more carefully before reaching conclusions. I believe that being open to different perspectives is important for understanding governance, human rights, public affairs, and the challenges faced by communities.

15. How have RAR Institute instructors supported and guided your academic development?

Answer:

Two instructors who have supported my learning at RAR Institute are H.E. Dr. Kaisayr, and Dr. Mohammed Hashiru. Through their teaching, explanations, feedback, and encouragement, they have helped me understand course materials and become more comfortable participating in academic activities. Their guidance has encouraged me to ask questions, express my ideas, and continue improving my knowledge and skills. Their support has also helped me appreciate the value of structured online education. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from instructors who encourage students to participate, remain committed to their studies, and continue pursuing their educational goals.

16. Which instructor or learning experience has had the greatest positive impact on you, and why?

Answer:

The teaching of H.E. Dr. Kaisayr, Founder-Chair & Executive Director of RAR Institute, has had a particularly positive impact on my educational experience. Before joining RAR Institute, I was uncertain about how effective online education could be. However, attending classes and experiencing the instructors’ dedication helped me recognise that online learning can provide meaningful educational opportunities when supported by structured teaching and active participation. I appreciate his teaching approach, professional conduct, and encouragement. This experience has strengthened my confidence in online education and motivated me to take my studies more seriously. It has also reminded me that a supportive learning environment can help students overcome hesitation and develop a stronger commitment to education.

17. How have your communication, presentation, teamwork, and leadership skills improved?

Answer:

Before joining RAR Institute, I sometimes found it difficult to communicate confidently and professionally with others. Since joining the Institute, I have become more comfortable interacting with instructors, classmates, and community members. I have also gained confidence in speaking during classes, participating in discussions, and presenting my ideas. Working with classmates has helped me understand the importance of cooperation, respectful communication, and supporting others in their learning.

I have assisted classmates with assignments, shared notes, and helped peers who were unable to attend classes. These experiences have strengthened my appreciation of teamwork and mutual support. I believe that continuing to develop these skills will help me in my future education and community work.

18. What is the most important academic achievement or personal improvement you have experienced since joining RAR Institute?

Answer:

One of the most important improvements I have experienced since joining RAR Institute is the development of my confidence and professionalism. Previously, I sometimes felt hesitant about speaking in front of others or expressing my ideas in academic settings. Through my studies and interactions with instructors and classmates, I have gradually become more comfortable communicating, participating in discussions, and presenting my thoughts. I have also continued developing my understanding of Political Science, critical thinking, academic writing, and independent learning. Although I am still at the beginning of my academic journey, these improvements have strengthened my motivation to continue my education and work towards my future goals.

19. How has studying at RAR Institute influenced your future academic, career, and community goals?

Answer:

My education at RAR Institute has strengthened my determination to continue studying after completing my Associate Degree in Political Science. I hope to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree and, if Allah wills, continue to postgraduate education in the future. In terms of my career, I aspire to work as a Rohingya activist and community worker. I want to use my knowledge of political systems, governance, and human rights to help people better understand social and political issues affecting our community. I am particularly interested in supporting Rohingya youth, promoting awareness of rights, and contributing to community development through education and constructive engagement. My long-term goal is to continue learning and use my education to make a positive contribution to the community.

20. Looking back from the day you joined RAR Institute until today, how would you describe your overall academic and personal development?

Answer:

Looking back on my journey since joining RAR Institute, I can see meaningful progress in my academic confidence, communication, and understanding of Political Science. My studies have introduced me to important concepts relating to democracy, governance, human rights, political institutions, and international relations. They have also encouraged me to examine political and social issues more carefully and consider different perspectives.

Personally, I have become more confident in expressing my ideas, communicating with others, and participating in academic activities. I have also recognised the importance of continuous learning, discipline, and supporting fellow students. As a Semester One student, I understand that there is still much to learn. I remain committed to improving my knowledge and abilities, completing my degree, pursuing further education, and contributing positively to the Rohingya community. My experience at RAR Institute has strengthened my belief that education can create opportunities for personal growth, greater understanding, and meaningful community contribution.

Acknowledgement

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to RAR Institute for providing me with the opportunity to pursue an Associate Degree in Political Science. I am grateful to the Institute’s leadership and instructors for their guidance, encouragement, and commitment to supporting students in their educational journeys.

I particularly appreciate my Instructors H.E. Dr. Kaisayr and Dr. Mohammed Hashiru for their teaching and support, which have encouraged me to develop my academic confidence and continue improving my knowledge and skills. I am also thankful to my classmates for their cooperation, encouragement, and willingness to share knowledge. Their support has helped create a positive learning environment.

Finally, I thank my family and everyone who has encouraged me to continue my education. I hope to use the knowledge and experience I gain through my studies to pursue further academic opportunities and contribute constructively to my community.

This student profile documents Sofiul Kodor’s personal reflections on his educational experiences and academic development. It is intended to recognise his progress, aspirations, and continuing commitment to learning.