AMCHAM Thailand Foundation Scholarship Alumna: Kanjanarat (Kimcream) Grishonwong

AMCHAM Thailand Foundation Scholarship Alumna: Kanjanarat (Kimcream) Grishonwong

Hello, my name is Kimcream. I graduated from Kasetsart University, Sakon Nakhon Campus, with first‑class honors in Hospitality Industry Management, majoring in Contemporary Tourism.

First of all, I would like to sincerely thank the AMCHAM Thailand Foundation (ATF) for providing scholarship opportunities to students from all walks of life. Many people notice the name of my university and campus, and to be honest, my area may seem far from development. However, ATF saw potential and continued to provide opportunities. Receiving the AMCHAM Scholarship became a major turning point in my life.

I believe many people are lucky to have dreams, whether big or small, because dreams guide us toward our goals. For me, this dream has existed since childhood. While others may dream of owning a car, a house, or starting a family, my dream has always been to travel the world—to see new places with my own eyes and experience different cultures and lifestyles. Through the AMCHAM Scholarship, I was able to make that dream a reality.

You may wonder how I achieved this. It was not easy, but it was possible. As a university and social activist, ATF recognized my dedication and offered me this opportunity. I used the scholarship to study a second language and invest in self‑development, which led to a short‑term exchange program in Japan. Seeing snow for the first time was almost unbelievable and marked the beginning of a joyful chapter in my life.

I would also like to share my experiences at the AMCHAM Orientation and Career Camps. I met talented and inspiring people from all regions of Thailand, each with unique abilities. Some spoke multiple languages, others shared local dialects, and we often communicated in a fun mix of languages. These moments were both educational and unforgettable. Beyond friendship, I gained valuable skills such as public speaking, résumé writing, strategic thinking, and exposure to real‑world business practices through interactions with company leaders.

Another important milestone in my journey was my internship at Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort under the Marriott brand. It was one of the most challenging experiences of my life, requiring great endurance and hard work, but it was also the most rewarding. I learned the true value of teamwork, professionalism, and perseverance while working with supportive and inspiring colleagues.

Today, I work at a company that organizes European tours for Thai travelers, where I plan and coordinate travel arrangements to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for clients. I cannot deny that this career opportunity is largely the result of the guidance and support provided by the AMCHAM Foundation, including scholarships, training, follow‑up, and the continuous encouragement of P Khun Pailin, who has supported me from the very beginning.

One lasting lesson I gained from AMCHAM is the true meaning of giving back. What began as volunteer work to fulfill service requirements became a life‑changing experience that taught me empathy and compassion. Through volunteering, I gained new perspectives, meaningful friendships, and a strong commitment to continue contributing to society.