For many, transformation starts with education. At Saint Paul College (SPC), students gain practical skills that open doors to new opportunities.

Top of the tree view of ancient temples peaking out through the vibrant leaves with a hazy mountain range in the background

Eaint Phu Myint Myat grew up in Myanmar, where American movies like Easy A and Pitch Perfect sparked her dream of studying in the United States. In her lush, culturally rich homeland, Eaint Phu earned a BA in English and worked as a project manager for a small NGO, helping her community. Yet, she soon reached the limits of opportunity at home.

After the 2021 military coup, Eaint Phu decided to pursue her dream by studying in America.

The Move to the Great North – Saint Paul, MN

A Minnesota-based friend and SPC alumnus encouraged her to enroll at SPC. There, Eaint Phu found a welcoming community of Burmese students and supportive instructors. The open environment helped her overcome language barriers, and instructors listened. One instructor adapted American phrases and jokes to include everyone.

At SPC, Eaint Phu chose the Business Transfer Pathway, eager to build on her experience managing teams and projects and to prepare for a new chapter in her career. Shelby Reigstad taught her quality internal and external communication. She has been a supportive, kind, and patient instructor. Similarly, Eaint Phu has really enjoyed the subjects and teaching style of Craig Maus, the Hospitality Management instructor.

Eaint Phu appreciates more than the faculty and classes. She loves the parks, especially Como Regional Park, and the changing colors of the leaves in the fall, as well as the snow. She also cannot get enough of the libraries. They are free, quiet, and accessible places to study. In Myanmar, this type of infrastructure does not exist.  Myanmar is also typically hot and muggy.

Eaint Phu Myint holds a framed Saint Paul College Student Senate Award certificate while seated indoors. The photo shows Eaint Phu Myint wearing a patterned sweater and a campus lanyard, with the framed award prominently displayed in the foreground. A yellow wall, television screen, and wall clock are visible in the background.
Eaint Phu Myint stands on a tree-lined walkway during autumn, wearing a white puffer jacket and carrying a shoulder bag. She raises a peace sign toward the camera, with orange fall foliage, pathway lights, and pedestrians visible in the background.

SPC’s resources help students thrive. Eaint Phu spent time in the Student Life office, served as their Events and Communications Coordinator, used the Campus Food Pantry, and joined WeThrive, a support community for women and non-binary students of color.

Eaint Phu is a Spring 2026 inductee of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Armed with new skills, Eaint Phu plans to pursue a master’s degree in the next two to four years, then return home to work for a larger NGO and drive positive development in Myanmar.

Advice for the Future of SPC

Every dream is possible with action.

Eaint Phu Myint Myat

International Student

Amid the political turmoil in Myanmar and similar challenges facing people around the world, she wants young people to have the same education and support she received at SPC. The staff, faculty, and fellow students make it easier to adjust to SPC. It is a place where students from all backgrounds can thrive.