Iana Galai is an education and learning specialist, trainer, and entrepreneur with over 10 years of experience in higher education, including teaching, academic leadership, and senior administrative roles. Her background combines linguistics, educational technology, e-learning design, curriculum development, and professional training, with experience developing learning programs and training more than 200 teams in communication, English, and soft skills. She holds an MSc in Educational Technology and E-learning Design and an MA in Linguistics, and is the Founder of LXLabs, where she develops practical, technology-enabled learning solutions for organizations across Southeast Asia. At the Royal University of Law and Economics (RULE), she teaches Business English and Academic Writing, helping students build confident communication and effective academic writing skills.

  • What have been your journey leading you to RULE? 

My journey to RULE comes from more than 10 years of working in education. I started with teaching and gradually moved into academic leadership and management, while also developing my experience in e-learning, curriculum design, and professional training. Over the years, I have worked with university students as well as professionals from different industries, including hospitality and business. I also founded LXLabs, where I develop practical learning programs focused on English, communication, and professional skills. Coming back to the university environment through RULE feels like a natural part of this journey, and I enjoy bringing my experience from both academia and the professional world into the classroom.

  • Can you tell us about your experience as a teacher for an international program in Cambodia? 

I think Business English and Academic Writing are especially relevant today because students need to be able to communicate their ideas clearly and confidently, both in Cambodia and internationally. English is not just a subject anymore. It is a working language for many industries and an important tool for accessing information, working with international teams, applying for jobs, and building a career. Academic Writing also teaches students how to structure their ideas, think critically, and communicate them clearly. These are skills they will continue to use long after they finish university.

  • What do you like the most in teaching at RULE? 

What I enjoy most is working with students and seeing how they develop their confidence over time. I like making lessons practical and connecting them to situations students are likely to encounter in their studies and future careers. I also enjoy the interaction in the classroom. Students bring different perspectives, and sometimes their questions or ideas take the discussion in a direction I did not expect. That is one of the things I have always enjoyed about teaching.

  • Do you have any recommendations for future students and graduates? 

My biggest recommendation is to start building your professional skills before you graduate. Your degree is important, but it is only one part of what will help you in your career. Practice communicating, writing, presenting, working with other people, and expressing your ideas clearly. If English is not your first language, do not wait until you feel “ready” to use it. Make mistakes, learn from them, and keep going. And stay curious. The ability to keep learning and adapt to new situations will probably be one of the most useful skills you can develop.