It’s really nice to have found a sense of belonging in Sheffield

Why did you choose to study Economics at the University of Sheffield?

My initial interest in the subject came from the Sri Lankan economic crisis that began in 2021. I also had the opportunity to study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme which introduced me to economics through the study of individuals and societies. Everything tied together for me and I decided I wanted to continue with the subject.

Sheffield quickly became the clear choice for several reasons. I wanted to study at a Russell Group university, but affordability was a major consideration. Sheffield offered the perfect balance, an affordable, vibrant city with plenty of beautiful green spaces to unwind. On top of that, securing a scholarship here provided support for my studies, making it an even more compelling choice.

I also loved the emphasis the university places on sustainability. A lot of the courses offer insight into these issues and there’s plenty of ways to get involved on campus.

How did you find the transition to studying in the UK?

I visited the UK a couple of times before coming to study here but I had never come to Sheffield. My first year was quite interesting. Transitioning wasn’t as hard as I expected it to be. I took time to learn about the city and visit its different areas.  I made sure to get involved with the university and the School as much as possible. I joined the Singing Society, the Sri Lankan Society and the Economics Society. This year, I’m now a careers officer and a treasurer for different groups. 

Tell us about your experience with Change Lab.

During my first year, I led the Rights of Nature Action Group for a semester which helped me meet lots of new people and develop CV building skills. The main objective of the project was to contribute towards obtaining legal personhood for the River Don in Sheffield. 

My team worked with various external and internal stakeholders. In particular, we interviewed business owners and residents in Kelham Island, to understand the community’s economic and social relationships with the river. It was a very interesting way to contribute towards conservation and stewardship.

I continued working with Change Lab in my second semester where we did an exhibition on the work we had completed. We developed an AI chatbot to act as the river so if you typed into it, it would be as if you were speaking to the river as a legal person. It was a great experience and our project was picked up by the local media. 

How are you finding the course so far?

My first year was quite comfortable, with well paced learning designed to build a strong foundation of knowledge. In the second year, we’ve been building on that foundation, and while it has come with its challenges, the support from my lecturers has been invaluable. They are always ready to answer questions and provide insights into placements and internships that align with our interests.

What was your internship like?

During my first year, I was keen to gain work experience over the summer, but since I wouldn’t be in the UK, I focused on opportunities back home. My goal was to work at one of the Big Four, and I decided to try for Deloitte. After submitting my CV, being called for a formal interview, and completing a case study, I secured the role! 

I worked alongside other interns from various countries and universities, many of whom were pursuing an Economics degree. It was a fantastic experience to engage with and learn from such a diverse group of people. After about a week and a half of onboarding, I was assigned a mentor and began contributing to real projects.

Over the three months, I worked on a World Bank Group research project, focusing on recent projects in Sri Lanka. My primary area of research was the healthcare sector, where I analysed key developments and provided my insights to the senior consultant overseeing my work and the head of the Strategy, Risk, and Transactions division.

As a part of the internship, the intern cohort had to  complete an ESG community outreach challenge. Together, we had to brainstorm an idea to fund raise for the Colombo Friends-in-Need Society who provide individuals with prosthetic limbs. It was challenging as we only had three weeks to plan and execute an event which would raise funds, but we were able to raise double our target and get 125 participants to take part. 

I highly recommend gaining work experience to anyone. It has helped me build connections with industry professionals, many of whom I’m still in touch with. Now in my second year, I feel more confident with a stronger CV that better positions me for future opportunities and placements.

If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself on your first day of university?

Keep doing what you're doing, everything will come together in time. The societies and extracurricular activities you're involved in will not only be rewarding but will also help you build lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.

As an international student, having a strong community is such an essential part of university life, and it’s really nice to have found a sense of belonging in Sheffield. The university does an excellent job of promoting events and initiatives that make it easy to connect and build meaningful relationships.