Iwanthika Rajakaruna
Country: Sri Lanka
Degree: Masters of Finance and Economics
Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics
Why did you choose the University of Adelaide?
“I studied Economics at University in Sri Lanka and knew I wanted to study Economics and Finance at post-graduate level. I researched course options online and discovered that the University of Adelaide offered a 2-year, CFA accredited Masters in Economics and Finance which suited me perfectly. Also, a friend of mine told me that the cost of living in Adelaide was less than in other states in Australia. I was coming with my family so cost of living was an important consideration for me.”
What is the best thing about the university?
“The online library database - it is huge! The study facilities in general at the university are really impressive.”
Have you enjoyed living in Adelaide?
“Yes, it is a great city to live with a family. The local people are friendly and helpful and made settling in very easy. Overall, we have only had good experiences with local people.”
The independent approach taken to study in Australia, has given me greater confidence in myself and my abilities.
- Iwanthika Rajakaruna
What do you like most about studying at the uni?
“My lecturers are highly qualified and use very practical examples. They are on first name terms with their students so it doesn’t feel like there is a great distance between students and lecturers. My program coordinator has helped me to enrol onto particular courses, including winter and summer school.”
What do you like most about the campus?
“Most of my time is spent in the library completing my coursework. The size of the Hub and the library make independent study on campus really enjoyable.”
Have you had a good experience working with other students?
“Yes especially Australian students. Generally, they have more technical knowledge than I do. If I have a problem I ask them and they are always happy to help me out. To begin with I found the Australian accent difficult to understand because I was used to British and American English but it’s amazing how quickly you tune your ear in!”
Did you come here with your family?
“Yes, I came here with my 3 and a half year old son and I am about to have my second child in a couple of weeks time! My parents are coming over from Sri Lanka to help me out for the first months or so.”
How have you enjoyed the experience?
"It has been an incredible experience. I am so thankful to my sponsor, the Central bank of Sri Lanka, for giving me this once in a lifetime opportunity. Without their support, there is no way I could have studied this course and gained this kind of valuable experience and knowledge.”
Have your family enjoyed their time in Adelaide?
“Yes, Adelaide is a great place to live with a family. It is a very green city with lots of fresh air. My son has learnt to speak really good English, in fact his English is as good as his Singhalese now! He goes to Kindergarten which has made him more independent, both in his behaviour and in his thinking. I am sure the whole experience will be hugely beneficial to my kids in the future, particularly from an educational perspective.”
What are your hopes for returning to work?
“I am looking forward to giving as much as possible back to my sponsor once I return to Sri Lanka. The independent approach taken to study in Australia has given me greater confidence in myself and my abilities. Through online tests, group work, workshops, weekly quizzes, and presentations my English has improved. I am sure this qualification will help progress my future career.”