Meet Ranumi Samarasinghe

Why I chose Western and my program

My grandparents live here in London, so that was a major reason I chose Western, and the programs here really interested me as well.

I have always found science fascinating and wanted to get involved in science or research. I think it’s cool to work in a lab and try to contribute to the ever-growing field of science. I find genetics especially interesting – how small changes in our genes make us so unique and different. I also find it intriguing how little we know about what’s out there, and the possibility of unique things lurking and waiting to be discovered.

I am not doing any research yet, academically or as part of my degree, but I am hoping to volunteer in a research lab this summer and/or complete a thesis next year in genetics or molecular biology.

Highlights of my Western experience so far

I am definitely more involved in activities at Western than I have ever been before in school. Through Western International, I volunteered during International Week and helped with Winter International Student Orientation last year, and now with photography this year. Also, my work with the Paper Art Club as the current VP Comms has been a big highlight. I really like how there is something for everyone to get involved in and the strong sense of community here. Even the wide range of courses that Western offers is amazing.

A fun fact about me

I love animals and birds, and I am a wildlife photographer. If you ask me the name of a bird in Sri Lanka, I probably know almost all of them! I haven’t been able to get involved with that here in Canada yet, but I really want to.

Where I see myself in five years

I hope to continue studying after my bachelor’s degree and get more involved in research, most probably working in a lab.

My advice for new students

It might be challenging to get used to how things are here, especially if you’re from a completely different culture, but don’t be afraid to try new things. One idea I’ve come across that stuck with me is that sometimes you have to let go of the picture of what you thought it would be like and learn to find joy in the story you are actually living!